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OCEANOCEAN
Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
Volume 7, Issue 12 Path of Entrusting - Live the Teachings! December 2013
Bodhi Day: Celebrating Buddha’s Enlightenment
By Reverend Richard Tennes
Most of us know that Buddhism began a long time ago in India with the enlight-
enment or “awakening” of Shakyamuni Buddha. In December, Buddhists celebrate
Bodhi Day, a time to reflect on the Buddha’s enlightenment and to consider what
that “awakening” has to do with our lives today.
“Shakyamuni Buddha” is the way we traditionally refer to the historical Buddha,
the person who lived in Northern India about 2,500 years ago. His name, before he
became the Buddha (the “awakened one”) was “Siddhartha Gautama” or just
“Siddhartha” for short. Siddhartha was an ordinary person, a human being, like all
of us. What is his story? Unlike most of us, however, Siddhartha’s father happened
to be a king, and he wanted his son to be king after him. One thing he was afraid of,
though, was that his son might become a religious seeker. If that happened, he knew that his son would never
be the king. To be a king, a person really has to care about ruling over others; he has to enjoy power. But
spiritual seekers don’t care about power; they are only interested in what is good and true. So, in order to
keep Siddhartha safe from the kind of thoughts that inevitably lead to spiritual questions, questions about life
and death, his father kept him in a wonderful palace where he could have everything he wanted and where he
never saw anything that might disturb his happiness. Here, Siddhartha was given everything he could ever
want, and what’s more, he never experienced or saw anything that might have suggested the existence of suf-
fering in the world. In other words, he never saw sickness, old age, or death. His father actually shielded Sid-
dhartha from anyone who was sick or old or unhappy or angry; he even protected him from hearing stories or
news about such things! Everyone that Siddhartha saw, everyone that took care of him, had to be young,
healthy, and beautiful and had to be happy and smiling all the time. He must have thought that everything in
life was always happy, young, and new! In this way, Siddhartha was kept from encountering anything that
might have awakened him to the truth of impermanence, to reality. In this way, Siddhartha’s father tried to
ensure that his son would become a good king and not a religious seeker.
But, as you might guess, when parents try to shield their children from reality, it seldom works out
well. As Siddhartha’s father got older, he too had to stop visiting his son. Otherwise, Siddhartha might have
seen his father ageing and start to realize that there is impermanence in the world. Anyone who got sick or
had problems of any kind—which might have revealed that life was not all happiness and goodness—had to
leave the palace. When this happened, Siddhartha must have wondered why his friends and family members
eventually disappeared, one-by-one, from his life. Even though his father was successful in preventing his
son from seeing people age, Siddhartha must have asked himself “where did they go?” He must also have
begun to wonder what went on outside his wonderful palace!
One day, despite all the precautions his father had taken, Siddhartha was able to sneak out of the palace
and to take a look at the real world. He was really shocked by what he saw. He saw people working desper-
ately hard growing grain and vegetables. He saw others laboring to make bread and other foods. He saw poor
people suffering from hunger. This was unbelievable to Siddhartha because he had always received whatever
(continued on next page)
2
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Maui Hongwanji Ministers Association is organizing a special Community Memorial Service in
support of the Victims of Typhoon Haiyan on Friday, December 20 at Kahului Hongwanji Mission.
For more information, please call the temple office.
Reverend Tennes’s open office hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday, 10:30 am—12:30 pm. If you wish
to see Rev. Tennes outside these times, please call the temple at 871-4732 or email him at
shaku.nyokou@gmail.com to set up a time to meet.
Join Rev. Tennes Monday mornings at 8:00 a.m. in the Kahului Hongwanji Hondo for a short morn-
ing chanting meditation followed by “Dharma Discussion and Coffee.” A great way to start the week!
(Call 871-4732 for more information.)
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Bodhi Day: Celebrating Buddha’s Enlightenment
(continued from previous page)
he wanted without even asking! His life was so easy! “Why should these people have to suffer and be hun-
gry?” he must have asked himself. He saw sick people and dying people and funerals with families crying in
pain because of losing their loved ones.
This really shook Siddhartha to the core of his being! He was immediately filled with compassion for
all these suffering beings. “How can I go back to my easy and happy palace life now” he asked himself,
“when the world is so full of suffering? I am no better than anyone else so I must give up my comfortable life
and go off by myself until I discover the truth of why there is suffering and how to cure it!”
So, from that point on, Siddhartha became a seeker of truth. He listened to teachers and followed their
advice and tried many different ways to find an explanation and a cure for the sufferings of the world. But
eventually he had to just sit down by himself and reflect deeply on his own life and his relationship with the
world. When he did this, it is said that he became “enlightened.” That means that he “woke up” to life, to the
truth, which we call “Dharma.” He became the Buddha, the “one who is awake.” From then on, he saw the
world in a totally new way, which allowed him to appreciate every moment of life without any anxiety or
worry. He didn’t worry about himself anymore; he saw everything and everyone in the light of the Dharma.
He became like an empty vessel filled with light. And because of the great Truth he had found, he only want-
ed to share what he had learned with everyone around him; he wanted everyone to have the opportunity to
leave behind their suffering and begin to appreciate their lives; and so he began to teach the Dharma. Because
of him, we too are able to hear the Dharma; through the Dharma, we too are able to truly appreciate every
moment of our lives.
Of course, most of us are not yet able to become completely enlightened as Siddhartha did. We cannot
yet become Buddha, no matter how much we think we understand. But it’s no problem for us because the
Buddha’s enlightenment already includes all of us limited deluded people; we are all embraced by the Bud-
dha’s infinite Compassion and Wisdom. That is the meaning of Namo Amida Butsu. All we have to do is
trust that the Buddha’s Compassion and Wisdom is always guiding and helping us. There is no need for any-
thing else. Then we can all deeply appreciate every moment of life, whether our circumstances seem to be
happy or sad, whether we are sick or healthy, old or young. The reason for this is because, in Namo Amida
Butsu, in the Mind of Amida, every moment of our life is completely pure, joyful and filled with wisdom and
gratitude. Let us celebrate the Buddha’s Enlightenment, let us awaken to the life of Namo Amida Butsu.
With hands together in reverence, Rev. Richard Tennes
3 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
President’s Corner
A year has many definitions:
There is the calendar year that in most countries runs from
January to December.
There is the fiscal year that usually runs from July 1 to
June 30.
There is a fiscal year that is set by an organization and
may be different from the July to June year.
There is the academic year that now uses different start
and end months depending on location of the school.
There is the anniversary year that marks a year from a
personal event—happy or sad.
And, there is the year marking the end of the two-year term of Kahului Hongwanji Board Members. This
is such a year.
Many of the current members of the KHM Board have actually served for more than one term, meaning
they had made the commitment of leadership for at least four years. Others have provided the stability and
group memory that is so important by being a board member for ten years or more.
It is important for a board to have new members and experienced members. New members provide differ-
ent approaches, different expertise and experiences. Experienced members have a knowledge of successful
projects accomplished. They know the history of our organization and can keep KHM from spinning wheels
or going in directions already tried without knowing adjustments must be made.
Kahului Hongwanji is fortunate to have both new and experienced board members.
Please go over the enclosed slate of officers carefully. Complete it and then send or bring it to the office by
December 30. Come to Kahului Hongwanji’s yearly General Membership meeting and New Year’s Celebra-
tion on Sunday, January 12, 2014. This is when the election of officers will be made official.
Please notice that the office of President does not have a name listed. Our By-Laws state that the president
shall serve only two terms—four years. This is my fourth year (altogether six years as President). The Nom-
inating Committee tried very hard to find someone to say “Yes.” Analyzing the reasons why there is this de-
velopment, the Executive Board worked on a plan to address the demands of the position. Basically, the plan
revolves around more people being willing to become actively involved in the temple’s activities—religious
and social. This means each and every one of Kahului Hongwanji’s board members, and its general members
and their families. Don’t be afraid to agree to help, to coordinate. Yes, it takes time, but the benefits are great!
You will gain a greater connection with people and a deeper understanding of Buddhism, the Way of Life
that we have chosen. These connections and understandings will be greater and much more satisfying than
these few words can express.
All of this will happen over time. There it is again, the word “Time.” Time is an investment. We invest
time when we read to our children and go to their games. Let us make another investment of time so we, our
children, and our children’s children will be able to continue coming to Kahului Hongwanji as a home.
In Gassho,
Janet
Remember: January 12, 2014! General Membership Meeting and New Year’s Celebration!
DONATION TO HONPA HONGWANJI
You can now make a donation to Honpa Hongwanji through online with your Credit Card. Please visit our website at
www.hongwanjihawaii.com and click “Donation to Honpa Hongwanji” on the main page. Honpa Hongwanji Mission of
Hawaii is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and your donations are tax deductible to the maximum extent allowable by
law.
4
Bodhi Day Service Plus Yard Sale!
Sunday, December 8
KHM will mark this year’s Bodhi Day with a short service
by the Bodhi tree at 6:30 a.m. followed by the year-end Yard
Sale from 7-11 a.m.
On Bodhi Day (December 8), Gautama meditated under the
Bodhi Tree (Tree of Enlightenment) and became a Buddha,
perfect in Wisdom and Compassion. This historic event took
place as the first faint light of day began to glow in the east-
ern sky. By his example he showed us that it was possible for
man to become a Buddha—a fully Enlightened Person. We
are, therefore, in possession of this potentiality—Buddha-
Nature—which, when awakened and cultivated, will enable
us to achieve supreme Wisdom and Compassion.
Excerpt from Shinshu Buddhist Handbook
Please refer to the included flyer for more information on
the Yard Sale!
General Membership Meeting
& New Year’s Luncheon
January 12, 2014—9 a.m.
Temple service at 9 a.m. is followed by the:
—General Membership Meeting
—Installation of 2014-2016 Board of
Directors
—Installation of BWA Officers for 2014.
—Fukunaga Dana Award Presentation
The New Year’s Luncheon with games
and prizes immediately follows the
meeting.
Adults—-$5 per adult
Children 18 yrs. old and under —Free
Please call the temple office by Tuesday,
Jan. 2, to let us know if you are coming.
Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Service Responsibilities
Dec 1 Jr. YBA
Dec 8 Bodhi Day service
Dec 15 General clean-up—no service
Dec 22 BWA
Dec 29 Kyodan
Hosha:
Year-end General Cleanup
Sunday, Dec 15, 7:30 a.m.
Hosha means to give or to help as an
expression of one’s gratitude. In the spirit
of hosha, let’s all come together to work at
KHM’s Year-end General Cleanup of the
temple and facilities.
Mochitsuki
Saturday, December 28
Using mochi machines (no manual pounding!) and begin-
ning at 7:30 a.m., these wonderful delicacies will be created!
Each family is to bring their own mochi rice (soaked for at
least one day and night), potato starch, an (beans), and con-
tainers in which to put finished mochi. Limit is 5# per fami-
ly. Please plan on staying until all families are through with
their mochi—this is a get-together time when everyone helps
everyone else. Please call the office to let them know you will
be coming and how many pounds of mochi rice you will be
bringing. (One batch is 2 1/2 pounds and takes 45 minutes to
cook and steam.)
Mark Your Calendar!
Dates to Remember
December - January - Dec 8 KHM Bodhi Day Service/Yard Sale Jan 1 New Year’s Day Service
Dec 15 Year-End Clean up Jan 12 General Membership Meeting & New Year’s Dec 28 Mochitsuki for Families Celebration
Dec 31 New Year's Eve Service Jan 26 Ho-onko—Shinran Shonin Memorial Service
New Year’s Eve Service—7:30 p.m.
New Year’s Day Service—9 a.m.
Usher out the old and welcome the new! Please come to
both services. Simple refreshments to follow.
5 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Hojukai
Pummelos (Pomelos), more com-
monly known in the islands as jabon,
were used to make these fabulous Hal-
loween décor. The Hojukai attendees
enjoying this creative holiday activity
are certainly talented and had lots of
fun! Many thanks to Arleen Yoshimo-
to for leading this project and for 4-
Hers for their assistance.
Thank you also to Chieko Hiwa-
tashi for her donation of goods for fu-
ture Hojukai lunches.
2013 PHILIPPINES DISASTER RELIEF
We have seen the massive destruction in the Philippines when Typhoon Haiyan struck earlier this month.
As the country begins the process of rebuilding and healing after this disaster, our Sangha would like to do its
part in supporting relief efforts there. The HHMH Committee on Social Concerns has approved a total of
$15,000 to aid in relief efforts. The following organizations will receive the funds: American Red Cross Ha-
waii Chapter $5,000,The Filipino Community Center/Consuelo Foundation $5,000, and the Buddhist Compas-
sion Relief Tzu-Chi Foundation $5,000. It is only through your generous contributions to our annual fund
drive that makes this kind of immediate response possible.
We know many members would like to personally contribute to aid in relief efforts. The Committee on So-
cial Concerns recommends the following organizations to donate to:
American Red Cross Hawaii Chapter 4155 Diamond Head Road Honolulu, HI 96816
http://www.redcross.org/hi/honolulu, 734-2101
Checks made payable to: “American Red Cross—Aloha for Philippines”
Filipino Community Center/Consuelo Foundation 94-428 Mokuola Street, Suite 302 Waipahu, HI 96797 http://filcom.org/donate-to-relief-efforts/, 680-0451
Checks made payable to: “Filipino Community Center—Aloha for Philippines”
You can also donate to these organizations at any of the following banks:
American Savings Bank, Bank of Hawaii, Bank of the Orient, Central Pacific Bank, Finance Factors,
First Hawaiian Bank, Hawaii National Bank, HomeStreet Bank, Ohana Pacific Bank, Pacific Rim
Bank and Territorial Savings Bank.
Tzu Chi Foundation, USA, Hawaii Chapter 1238 Wilhelmina Rise Honolulu, HI 96816
http://hawaii.us.tzuchi.org/, 737-8885
Checks made payable to “Tzu Chi”
Thank you for your continued generosity and support during this time of tragedy; your Dana will save
lives. Mahalo! A special Community Memorial Service in support of the victims of typhoon Haiyan is being
planned for Friday, December 20 at Kahului Hongwanji Mission (see Announcements on page 2).
6
Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Dharma School
As 2013 is nearing its end, the Dharma School students are gearing up for the oncoming holiday season.
Sunday, October 27 was the annual Halloween party for the students. Everyone dressed up in fun cos-
tumes and enjoyed the snacks and had fun playing the games. A special thanks to the 4-H Shooting Stars for
organizing the event!
Happy Holidays to all!
7 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
4-H Shooting Stars
Where did October go? The month flew by quite fast. First my 4-H club and I marched in the Maui Fair
parade. I got a chance to wave at all of my adoring fans as we walked along Kaahumanu Avenue to the fair
grounds. This year we were in the sixteenth position in the parade and finished marching just as the fair gates
opened for business. No lines yet for rides – HOORAY!
Our next October project was 4-H Sunday. What an experience. We never had the opportunity to run a
service. I never realized what goes into preparations for Sunday service. With the help from Mrs. Shimada
and Reverend Tennes, we were somewhat prepared. We had a practice session prior to the actual service with
Reverend Tennes. It was a learning experience. He explained the procedures and how he wanted the service
to be conducted. Reverend Tennes patiently offered advice and suggestions to us to help ease our nerves of
public speaking. On the day of the service, we were a little nervous but ready to go. Emma and Renee did a
great job conducting the service as the emcees. Stacie and I represented our club with the duties of greeter
and Dana collectors. I think that we did a good job for our first time helping with Sunday service. I cannot
wait until next year; maybe I will be able to see over the podium.
Then Emma and Megan participat-
ed in the October Hojukai activity.
They helped decorate jabongs instead
of pumpkins for Halloween. Those
senior ladies were quite creative. When
given some glitter and glue, great
things happened.
Our last major project of the month
was the Halloween party for the dhar-
ma school students. The experience of
planning and organizing a party was
not as easy as I had expected. First, we
decided at the last minute to plan for
the party. We had never organized
something like it. During the early planning stages, the adults let us have the freedom to plan and decide
what were going to do. Stacie was in charge of the event. She divided everyone into committees to handle
each stage of the party. After we brainstormed and put everything down on paper, I felt that we were ready.
We decorated the Lumbini room prior to Sunday. Everyone worked together to put the streamers all around
the room and set up the spider web. I thought that the room looked kind of scary and had that Halloweeny
feel to it. On the day of the event, we had a group of children ready to party. First we started with a game of
musical chairs. We found out that when you play musical chairs with little kids, you need to use smaller
chairs because the regular chairs can seat two kids instead of only one. Next was my favorite – the donut eat-
ing contest. Aunty Gail (my mom) hung up the donuts and the contestants were ready to chow down. I think
that the donuts were too big because everyone took too long to eat even half the donut. After everyone’s face
was covered with icing from the donut, a winner emerged. It was Renee. The last game of the day was a relay
game. The relay consisted of popping a balloon, hula hooping, and spinning with the head resting on a bat.
After the kids were dizzy from the relay, they finished the day breaking a piñata. Everyone was happy and
loaded with candy. I think that we did an okay job for our first time planning a party. But next time, I think
that we should start planning earlier.
We were quite busy with many activities, and I can’t wait for what fun is in store for us next month.
Domo arigato
Dayna Saito
8 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Pack 64/Troop 64
Pack and Troop 64 would like to say THANK YOU to the Kahului
Hongwanji Mission for its support. Our Scouts are thankful to be a part
of KHM family.
Webelos Trever has been busy completing his requirements for his
Arrow of Light Award and will receive his badge at the December
Court of Honor. The Arrow of Light Award is the highest award a Cub
Scout can earn and is the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on the
Boy Scout uniform. Trever will be joining the Troop in January.
Scout Edgar is on his way to earning his Tenderfoot rank and will be
having his Board of Review in December. He has been working on mer-
it badges and helping Trever complete his requirements for joining the
Troop in January.
Life Scout Devin has been busy working on his Eagle rank. He has been helping Edgar and Trever with
their requirements and showing them how much fun scouting can be.
We wish that everyone had a happy and safe Thanksgiving!!!
If you know a boy that would like to join KHM Scouting program, please call Kevin Tanaka at 808-280-
0719 or contact the temple office at 808-871-4732.
Recipe Corner
PHILLY CREAM HOLIDAY CAKE
1 block cream cheese (8 oz)
1 c butter
1 ½ c sugar
1 ½ t vanilla
4 eggs
2 ¼ c cake flour (divided)
1 ½ t baking powder
1 c fruitcake mix (chopped fine)
1 c walnuts (chopped fine)
Cream cheese, butter and sugar.
Add vanilla. Blend well.
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each one.
Sift 2 cups of the flour with the baking powder.
Mix remaining ¼ cup flour with the chopped fruit and nuts.
Add sifted flour mixture to creamed mixture and mix well.
Add floured fruits and nuts.
Grease bundt or tube pan. (3 small loaf pans may be used.)
Bake at 300 degrees for 1 hour and 15 minutes. (Bake for 1 hour for small pans.)
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Recipes Welcome
Please share a favorite recipe with our sangha. Send a
copy to the temple office or send it via email to kahului-
hongwanji@hawaii.rr.com. Please email your picture and
we will gladly insert it in the Recipe Corner. Mahalo!
9 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Highlights of Kahului Hongwanji Mission Board Meeting Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Members Present: Rev. R. Tennes, J. Shimada, S. Emura, S. Higa, G. Hironaka, G. Hiyakumoto, H. Naka-
mura, E. Nishimura, C. Suyama, I. Tokishi, D. Toyama, H. Toyama, A. Yoshimoto, I.
Matsuda
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Solar Panels Report – KHM has been on-line from the week of September 22, 2013.
Nomination Committee – The slate of officers will be officially presented to the Board at the next meeting,
then will be sent to members via Ocean.
125th Anniversary – Honpa Hongwanji – Rev. Ai Hironaka and Janet Shimada will be the chairs from Maui
on the planning committee.
NEW BUSINESS December Yard Sale – There continues to be an abundance of donations which are presently in our storage
areas. Motion was made and seconded to hold a Yard Sale on December 8, 2013, with proceeds to go into the
CIP Fund and affiliates to receive a donation for their assistance. Motion carried.
Air Conditioning for the Temple – The main temple is presently the largest enclosed area on KHM grounds
for use for a large group gathering. Suggestion was made that it can become a comfortable location for vari-
ous types of uses. Motion was made and seconded to authorize Gerald Hiyakumoto to research the feasibility
of installing air conditioning in the main temple. Motion carried.
Proposal – Executive Director rather than Temple President
With no one available to fill the office of Kyodan President, restructuring of the position may be necessary. A
meeting to discuss the leadership position(s) will be held on Monday, October 28, at 1:30 p.m. All are invited.
REPORTS
Minister/Office Report – Weekly “Morning Service, Coffee & Dharma” continues at 8:00 a.m. in the KHM
Hondo & Minister’s Office. Held most Mondays.
The six session introduction to Shin Buddhism entitled “Embraced by Great Compassion” began on October
12 at KHM on Saturdays at 10:30-12:00 noon. The class/discussion group is facilitated by Rev. Tennes and
Rev. Sol Kalu of MHM.
Dharma Education Service Responsibilities/Window Cleaning Helpers
January (proposed)
January 5 Jr. YBA
January 12 Dharma School – General Meeting/NY Celebration?
January 19 Kyodan
January 26 BWA – Ho-onko? Window cleaning on 1/18 – Dharma School
Jr. YBA – Per information received from Wendy Wells, Maui United Jr. YBA is in charge of hosting an over-
night Federation meeting and Olympic Games on January 18-19, 2014. The site is yet to be determined.
Other Business
For coordination purposes, KHM organizations/affiliates are asked to please schedule usage of temple facili-
ties with the office.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
10 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Grateful Acknowledgments As of November 11, 2013
FUNERAL
In memory of James Ushijima
Arthur & Ruth Ushijima
MEMORIAL SERVICES
In memory of Norman N. Murakami
Tomoye Murakami
Eleanor Nishimura
Marlene Nishimura
In memory of Katsuto Shimizu
Eleanor Nishimura
Marlene Nishimura
Tomoye Murakami
In memory of Kama Miyasato (13 year)
Clarence & Jean Miyasato
In memory of Saburo Ota (7 year) &
Robert Ota (25 year)
K.K. Ota & W. Lau Hee
T. Lau Hee & W.N. Lau Hee
Janice Ota
In memory of Clara Takamura
Brenda Tatsuhara
Cary Takamura
Craig Takamura
Baron Sumida
Sandy Sumida
Chieko Hiwatashi
In memory of Thelma Nakashima (7 year)
Jean Fragoza
SPECIAL
Henry & Florence Tasaka
Anonymous (Butsudan disposal)
In memory of Toshimi Shimazu (17 year)
Chieko Hiwatashi
In memory of Ralph Kazumasa Kimura
Masue Kimura
Audrey Takitani
H. Taira & R.S. Taira
In memory of Guy Toyama (1 year)
Douglas & Harriet Toyama
Isaac & Jane Toyama
In memory of Harumi Haraga (13 year)
Ayae Heishman
In memory of Nobuko Kamada (25 year)
Isaac & Jane Toyama
In memory of James Ushijima
Ayae Heishman
Mikiko Gushi
Toshio & Yvonne Kishi
Bernadine Tagomori
OBON (not previously listed)
In memory of Shizuka Abe
James & Sharon Uno
OHIGAN (not previously listed)
Satsuko Kanechika
Yoshio & Yukie Kohama
DANA FUND
Contributors to Sunday, October 27 service’s
special dana collection for this fund
NOKOTSUDO
Alan & Irene Matsuda
Janice Ota
COPY MACHINE
Bernadine Tagomori
PROPERTY USE
Friends of Old Maui High School
Harry & Janet Shimada
GOLD AWARDS
Yukie Kohama
Teruko Yamashita
Lillian Sakuma
Betty Yoshimura
K. Higashi
Patsy Saki
Thank you for your most generous donations. Kahului Hongwanji depends greatly on the support of its
ohana.
We are sorry if we have omitted or misspelled your name. Please assist us by calling the office (871-
4732) so we can make proper corrections. Also, if you prefer your listing to be ‘Anonymous,’ please let us
know by indicating this desire on your check. Mahalo.
11 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Memorial Listing
DECEMBER
1 YEAR (2012)
Sorayama, Alice, 87 December 18
Hozaki, Jamie, 61 December 28
3 YEAR (2011)
None
7 YEAR (2007)
None
13 YEAR (2001)
Fujii, Tsukasa, 86 December 12
Yayoshi, Masaharu, 84 December 18
17 YEAR (1997)
Kunitake, Teruko, 85 December 21
Makita, Satoshi, 36 December 26
Sasada, Ayame, 84 December 31
25 YEAR (1989)
None
33 YEAR (1981)
Omoto, Megumi, 67 December 23
50 YEAR (1964)
Mochida, Yujiro, 83 December 21
Kawano, Satsu, 75 December 21
JANUARY 2014 1 YEAR (2013)
Matsuda , Hideyuki, 96 January 22
Taguchi, Edith Hisayo, 90 January 30
3 YEAR (2012)
Hozaki, Mitsuo, 88 January 24
Ueda, Hiroshi, 89 January 30
7 YEAR (2008)
Hiranaga, Bessie Chimoto, 93 January 1
Inaba, Flora Otsuma, 90 January 4
Tanaka, Franklyn Mamoru, 60 January 20
13 YEAR (2002)
Fuchikami, Kiyoko, 76 January 24
17 YEAR (1998)
Ogata, Kunio, 80 January 19
25 YEAR (1990)
Nakagawa, Miyoki, 68 January 15
Uchimura, Irene Shizuyo, 78 January 20
33 YEAR (1982)
Kanechika, Katsuyo, 94 January 2
Tomita, Kazuo, 69 January 10
Fujii, Tomeichi, 93 January 19
50 YEAR (1965)
None
MEMORIAL SERVICE
A memorial service is held in gratitude for the compassion of Amida Buddha and the life of Nem-
butsu. It is a time for family members and friends to gather together on behalf of the departed person, to
share their memories, and to express thankfulness and gratitude.
To make arrangements for a memorial service, please call the temple office at 871-4732.
IN MEMORIAM
Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple extends deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the
following members who passed away recently:
Hatsuyo Misawa, 99 October 5, 2013
Tokie Hidani, 96 October 20, 2013
James Ushijima, 90 October 22, 2013
12 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Highlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii HEADQUARTERS UPDATE
1727 Pali Highway, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Phone: (808)522-9200 Fax: (808)522-9209
Web: www.hongwanjihawaii.com Email: hqs@honpahi.com
NOVEMBER 2013
Marriage Equality in Hawaii
At the 98th Legislative Assembly of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii held in February 2010,
presided over by State President Mr. Alton Miyamoto and Bishop Thomas Okano, the Honpa Hongwanji Mis-
sion of Hawaii, upon the recommendation of the HHMH Committee on Social Concerns, officially adopted a
resolution supporting the rights of same-gender couples which was shared with the General Public. In Febru-
ary 2011, Civil Unions were recognized in the State of Hawaii.
On September 9, 2013, the Honorable Governor Neil Abercrombie called for a Special Session of the
Hawaii State Legislature relating to Marriage Equality or Same-sex Marriage. The Senate Hearing was held on
October 28, 2013 and the House Hearing was held on October 31, 2013, at both Hearings Bishop Eric Matsu-
moto of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii testified in person in support of Marriage Equality with the
following moving testimony.
In Strong Support of Senate Bill 1 Relating to Equal Rights (Testimony given at Senate Hearing and House Hearing by Rev. Eric Matsumoto, Bishop)
I would like to express my strong support of Senate Bill 1. The Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii is the larg-
est Buddhist denomination in Hawaii with 33 temples throughout the State. For nearly 125 years, we have been
sharing the message of an All-Inclusive Wisdom and All-Embracing Compassion which aspires for the peace and
happiness of all existence. Guided by Great Wisdom and Compassion, we are encouraged to equally respect all
people. The Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii’s support of marriage equality is based on the equality of all
people.
We believe that marriage equality is a basic civil right of any person. Further in any relationship, what are most
important are the commitment, respect and trust that people bring to the relationship. The choice to marry the
person you love is a freedom that should not be denied to anyone. Gay and lesbian couples wish to marry for
similar reasons as anyone else – to make a lifetime commitment filled with love and fidelity to the person they
love.
I believe that religious freedom is adequately protected by the bill. It is clear that no member of the clergy will
be required to perform a wedding ceremony with which he or she does not agree. On the other hand, the pas-
sage of the bill will provide clergy the opportunity to marry all individuals who are deeply committed to each
other. It is clear that some religious denominations will perform marriages for same-gender couples, and some
will not, just as some houses of worship perform interfaith marriages and some will not. This bill does not
change this fact.
This bill expands religious freedom and rights to more people in our Nation through our State. I believe it is in
the spirit of our great Nation and our Aloha State to welcome, embrace and provide for all people. I know our
ministers would welcome the opportunity to perform weddings for same-gender couples as it also affirms our
spiritual values. True Compassion and Aloha includes all!
I humbly ask for your support for same-gender couples having the right to marry in Hawaii. Thank you for this
opportunity to testify.
Bishop Matsumoto was also one of several clergy who spoke at a rally held by supporters at Capitol
Rotunda which was also attended by Rev. Shindo Nishiyama and Rev. Toshiyuki Umitani. Bishop Matsumoto
was present at the State Capitol during various times throughout the special session to show the support of the
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. There were some tense moments between supporters and opponents
who had gathered at the State Capitol, but in the end Hawaii lived up to its name of the Aloha State.
13 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Highlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii—continued Rev. Blayne Higa, Chairperson of the Committee on Social Concerns, also sent letters of support to all Sen-
ators and Representatives on behalf of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. He delivered an Invocation at
the opening of the House of Representatives to provide guidance to those in attendance. He served as the criti-
cal link between the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and various other supporting organizations such as
Hawaii United for Marriage, ACLU, other clergy in support of marriage equality and many other groups in-
cluding Legislators. Bishop and he were invited to attend the By-Invitation only signing of the Bill by the Gov-
ernor of Hawaii held at the Hawaii Convention Center on November 13, 2013 which made Hawaii the 15th
State together with the District of Columbia in the Nation to recognize same-sex marriage. In attendance to
witness this significant moment was Representative Richard Onishi of Hilo, Hawaii.
The support and presence of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, as the largest denomination of Bud-
dhism in Hawaii, was appreciated by many supporters and seems to have impacted a significant number of in-
dividuals including Legislators. Bishop Matsumoto stated that he was very proud to represent the Honpa
Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and expresses his appreciation to the Members and Supporters of the Honpa
Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii for sharing their perspective and value on the equality of all people with the rest
of the Community. He is overjoyed that Jodo Shin Buddhists are being guided by Wisdom and inspired by
Compassion and that is making a difference in our world.
Truly thanks to the support and dedication of so many people all across the State who supported Marriage
Equality by submitting written and oral testimony, contacted Legislators, participated in rallies, signed peti-
tions and informed the Honpa Hongwanji of their support and appreciation, we have marriage equality in our
State. Thank you for your support! Let us continue our efforts to promote more awareness, mutual respect and
understanding among all people. Thank you!
2014 Giseikai
The 2014 HHMH Legislative Assembly (Giseikai) will be held on February 7 & 8, 2014 at the Honpa
Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin. The registration fee for Giseikai is $100.00 (includes Living Treasures luncheon
fee). Rap Session fee is $8.00. The Registration form and other documents that need to be submitted for Gis-
eikai were already sent to the temples and organization leaders. Please submit all the documents to HQ by the
deadline described in the letter. The packet containing materials for Giseikai will be distributed at the Hawaii
Kyodan Board of Directors’ Meeting on December 7, 2013. Thank you very much for your cooperation.
Living Treasures of Hawaii recognition Luncheon The Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii will honor the following individuals as the 2014 Living Treas-
ures of Hawai’i™ in recognition of their personal and professional achievements and their contributions to the
community. We welcome you to celebrate this honor with them.
Reverend Ida Chun Dr. Samuel Gon III Robert Hamada Arthur & Rene Kimura Reverend Chikai Yosemori
Date: Saturday, February 8, 2014 Place: Sheraton Waikiki Hotel Time: 11:00 AM Registration, 12:00 PM Lunch and Program Cost: Early registration - $70.00 for payments received by January 24, 2014
Late registration - $85.00 for payments between January 25-February 3, 2014 (Reservations will NOT be accepted after February 3, 2014) Sponsor Tables are available: Gold - $5,000; Silver - $3,000; Bronze - $1,500
*To register, please call your temple office for the form to be completed.
IMOP Ministers’ Internship in Hawaii
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii welcomed two ministers who were in the International Ministerial
Orientation Program (IMOP) at the Jodo Shinshu Center in Berkley, CA. During the three-month program, the
participating ministers take classes at the Institute of Buddhist Studies, receives lectures from the Kaikyoshi
(Overseas Minister) and members, attends Sunday Services, and observes Kaikyoshi’s duties and responsibili-
ties to deepen his/her understanding and aspiration to become a Kaikyoshi Minister in Overseas districts. The
14 Volume 7, Issue 12 OCEAN Page
Highlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii—continued
Kaikyoshi aspirants from Japan must complete the IMOP in order to be officially registered as Kaikyoshi Min-
ister by Honzan (Mother temple in Kyoto). Honzan will then dispatch the new minister to Honpa Hongwanji
Mission of Hawaii, Buddhist Churches of America, or Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada based on the
needs from the district and the aspiration of the minister.
This year Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii supported this program by welcoming two individuals for
their 9 days internship in Hawaii. This year’s IMOP participants, Rev. Yuko Kubo and Rev. Daido Baba,
went through the Internship in Hawaii from October 19 to 27, 2013 under the supervision of Rev. Toshiyuki
Umitani. They received lectures and observed minister’s work from the Hawaii Kyodan Ministers, had a fel-
lowship with BSC Fellowship Club, and delivered a Dharma Message at Waipahu Hongwanji Mission. They
both showed their great interest in becoming a Kaikyoshi Minister in overseas districts.
Appreciation Gathering for the Retired Ministers and Spouses
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii annually invite all the retired ministers and their spouses to express
our appreciation for their service and dedication to the Hawaii Kyodan. This year’s gathering was held on No-
vember 2, 2013 at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin. At the opening service, Bishop Eric Matsumoto and
Mr. Alton Miyamoto delivered a message of appreciation on behalf of the active ministers and members of
HHMH. An appreciation luncheon was held at the Bishop’s residence.
Dr. George Tanabe receives the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon
On November 3, 2013 (Japan time), the Government of Japan announced the 49 foreign recipients of the
Fall 2013 Imperial Decorations. From Hawaii, Dr. George Joji Tanabe, Jr., Professor Emeritus of the Depart-
ment of Religion at the University of Hawaii at Manoa was selected to receive the Order of the Rising Sun,
Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon. Service: Contributed to the enhancement of mutual understanding between the
United States and Japan and the promotion of Japanese culture and values through research and studies in Jap-
anese Religions and for his contributions to the strengthening of academic and cultural exchanges between the
United States and Japan.
In 1977, he joined the faculty of the Department of Religion at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where
he taught religion and Buddhist philosophy for 28 years, as well as concentrating his efforts on writing books
and articles and doing public lectures on Japanese Buddhism and Japanese culture. Dr. Tanabe served as the
Chairman of the Department of Religion from 1991 to 2001.
In 2006, Dr. Tanabe became a Professor Emeritus at the University of Hawaii and continued his writing and
lectures. That year, he also became an Advisor of the Numata Center at the Bukkyō Dendō Kyōkai.
For 35 years, Dr. Tanabe has been a key figure in Hawaii in the field of religion, mainly in the area of Japa-
nese Buddhism, focusing his efforts on educating students and doing research. He strengthened academic co-
operation between the United States and Japan by visiting Japanese universities and fostering networks with
the research faculty there, and in coordinating academic symposiums such as the International Conference on
the Lotus Sutra and Japanese Culture.
In 2001, following the Ehime Maru incident, Dr. Tanabe assisted and advised the American side on issues
of varying sensitivities involving Japan culture and religion. Dr. Tanabe’s contributions have deepened the un-
derstanding of Japanese religion and Japanese culture, and promoted academic and cultural exchanges between
the United States and Japan.
Donation from JTB
On November 18, 2013, Mr. Kyoji Koitabashi and Ms. Naomi Ozawa of JTB USA Honolulu Office visited
the Bishop Eric Matsumoto to present a grant of $1,000 to Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. JTB Cultur-
al Exchange Corporation has established a grant program in 1988 to recognize individuals and organizations
that have shown commitment to enhancing international awareness and relations between the peoples of Japan
and the United States. Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii has been selected to receive this grant award be-
cause of our commitment to strengthening positive relations between Japan and the United States.
15
Off
ice
Phone:
871
-4732
Off
ice
Fax
: 877
-2640
Dec
emb
er 2
01
3
Su
n
Mo
n
Tu
e
We
d
Th
u
Fri
S
at
1
9 a
.m. F
am
ily S
erv
ice
(
Jr.
YB
A)
2
8 a
.m. C
hanting
Med
itatio
n a
t K
HM
fo
llow
ed b
y
Dharm
a D
iscus-
sio
n a
nd C
off
ee
3
4
5
6
(Off
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losed)
7
(Off
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losed)
8
6:3
0 a
.m. B
odh
i D
ay
S
erv
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7-1
1 a
.m.
Yard
Sa
le
9
8 a
.m. C
hanting
Med
itatio
n a
t K
HM
fo
llow
ed b
y
Dharm
a D
iscus-
sio
n a
nd C
off
ee
10
11
10 a
.m. H
ale
Makua
Kah
ulu
i vis
itation
12
13
(O
ffic
e C
losed)
14
(O
ffic
e C
losed)
15
N
o F
am
ily S
erv
ice
—
7:3
0 a
.m. G
enera
l
C
lean
-up
16
8 a
.m. C
hanting
Med
itatio
n a
t K
HM
fo
llow
ed b
y
Dharm
a D
iscus-
sio
n a
nd C
off
ee
17
6:3
0 p
.m. B
oard
of
Directo
rs’
Meeting
18
19
20
(O
ffic
e C
losed)
Co
mm
un
ity M
em
ori
al
Serv
ice a
t K
HM
in
su
pp
ort
of
vic
tim
s o
f T
yp
ho
on
Haiy
an
21
(O
ffic
e C
losed)
22
9 a
.m. F
am
ily S
erv
ice
(
BW
A)
23
8 a
.m. C
hanting
Med
itatio
n a
t K
HM
fo
llow
ed b
y
Dharm
a D
iscus-
sio
n a
nd C
off
ee
24
25
H
OLID
AY
C
hristm
as
(Off
ice C
losed)
26
27
(O
ffic
e C
losed)
28
(O
ffic
e C
losed)
7:3
0 a
.m. M
ochitsuki
29
9 a
.m. F
am
ily S
erv
ice
(
Kyo
dan)
30
8 a
.m. C
hanting
Med
itatio
n a
t K
HM
fo
llow
ed b
y
Dharm
a D
iscus-
sio
n a
nd C
off
ee
31
7
:30
p.m
. N
ew
Y
ea
r’s E
ve
Se
rvic
e
16
December Calendar of Events
Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple 291 South Puunene Avenue Kahului, Hawaii 96732
Address Service Requested
Office: (808) 871-4732 Fax: (808) 877-2640
Email: kahului-hongwanji@hawaii.rr.com Website: http://kahuluihongwanji.org
Resident Minister
Reverend Richard Tennes
Kyodan President
Janet Shimada
Office Secretary
Sharon Higa
Office Hours: Sunday-Thursday
8 am—12 noon
Fri-Sat—Closed
Minister’s Office Hours:
Mon, Thu, Fri—10:30 am—12:30 pm
Nokotsudo hours: daily 8 am—5 pm
Sunday Family Service
Sundays, 9 a.m.
Except December 8 and 15—see below
**********
Dharma School
Sundays after Family Service
*********
Chanting Meditation followed by
Dharma Discussion and Coffee at KHM
Mondays, 8 a.m., December 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30
***********
Bodhi Day Service & Yard Sale
Sunday, December 8
Service at 6:30 a.m.
Yard Sale from 7-11 a.m.
***********
Hosha:
Year End General Cleanup
Sunday, December 15, 7:30 a.m.
***********
Community Memorial Service at KHM
in support of victims of Typhoon Haiyan
Friday, December 20, time tbd
Mochitsuki
Saturday, December 28, 7:30 a.m.
***********
New Year’s Eve Service
Tuesday, December 31, 2013, 7:30 p.m.
**********
Hojukai
No meeting in December
**********
BWA Meeting
No meeting in December
**********
Scouts Meeting
Contact Denise Tanaka
***********
4-H Meeting
Every other Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.
***********
Yoga Class
For schedule contact
Kallie Keith-Agaran
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
PERMIT NO. 37
Kahului, Hawaii
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