Friend of the Dharma-July2014

FRIEND OF THE DHARMA
WAILUKU HONGWANJI MISSION
1828 VINEYARD STREET, WAILUKU, HI 96793
TELEPHONE: (808) 244-0406 – 244-9647
Website: www.wailukuhongwanji.org
VOL. LI, No. 7
Email: [email protected]
July 2014
“Hatsu Bon” and Obon services to be
held on August 1—2
Board of Directors in charge of Sunday Service on July 13
HE ANNUAL “HATSU BON” AND OBON SERVICES
will be conducted for 30 members of the Wailuku
Hongwanji Mission who passed away the past year.
The “Hatsu Bon” service will be held on Friday, August
1, and Saturday, August 2, beginning at 6:45 p.m. The deceased members have been divided into two groups with
one group having the service on Friday night and the other
group having the service on Saturday night. Because there
are families who may have other commitments or may be
coming from another island or the mainland, the schedule
below may be changed. Families who need to change the
date of the service should contact the office at 244-0406.
EMPLE MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO THE SPECIAL
Board of Directors’ Sunday Service on July 13, beginning at 8:00 a.m. Director of Religious Affairs
George Okamoto has made the following assignments:

Friday, August 1, 2014
James Masaru Nagoshi (SHO DO)
Donald Yoshito Fukunaga (GI KYO)
June Setsuko Ecsedy (JO SETSU)
Yoshito Matsui (GI MYO)
James Sadao Morisaki (TEI DO)
Alvin Shigeo Anbe (JOJI)
Harry Tanoue (SOKU DO)
Alan Shuichi Sueda (KYO SHU)
Earl Izumi (SHO JI)
Yukitaka Ansai (KO DO)
Tadao Murata (CHU GI)
July 28, 2013
August 8, 2013
August 9, 2013
August 24, 2013
September 15, 2013
October 7, 2013
October 12, 2013
October 19, 2013
October 23, 2013
November 19, 2013
June 2, 2014
Saturday, August 2, 2014
Natsuyo Hayase (KYO KEI IN SHAKU KU KO EI)
Geraldine Mitsuko Honda (MYO KO)
Gwendolyn Higa (BI GEN)
Yoshito “Spooky” Inamasu (GI SHO)
Shizuko Hashimoto (JO KEN)
Mamoru Oka (HO SHU)
Robert Matsushita (SHO KO IN SHAKU KEN TOKU)
Alvin Nishihara (KYO DO))
Yuriko “Lillian” Nishida (HO NEN)
Nancy Otome Oishi (MYO RI)
George K. Kamimura (SEI DO)
Wallace Akira Endo (MYO DO)
William Shigetani (SHO SHIN)
Elsie Harue Fukumoto (SHUN DO)
Mamoru Wada (SHIN DO)
Jane Asae Morimoto (JI GAN)
Penny Lou Kyoko Endo (KYO DO)
Harue Arai Kono (SHUN DO)
Steve Kiyoshi Kaneda (SEI GAN)
August 15, 2013
September 8, 2013
December 1, 2013
January 1, 2014
January 5, 2014
January 8, 2014
January 29, 2014
January 29, 2014
February 3, 2014
February 14, 2014
February 15, 2014
March 3, 2014
March 5, 2014
March 16, 2014
March 18, 2014
March 29, 2014
April 7, 2014
April 24, 2014
April 30, 2014

Entrance Greeters ........... Reverend Shinkai Murakami, George Okamoto
Joan Tamori, Kazuo Sugiki
Ushers to Pews ...................................Stanley Hashimoto, Paul Hiranaga
Kansho Bell .................................................................... Stanley Okamoto
Master of Ceremonies ....................................................Richard Minatoya
Incense Offering ..................................... Janet Kubota, Ronald Fukumoto
Offertory Collection........................................Gary Murai, Darren Unemori
Nelson Okamura, Hideo Kawahara
Speakers ....................................................................... Michael Munekiyo
Aspiration........................................................................ George Okamoto
Kitchen Crew ...........................................Wesley Wong, Jr., Faith Tengan
Aldon Mochida, Emiko Sakagawa
Sandy Matsuda
Photographer................................................................ Franklin Hamasaki
Graveside Services to be held on July
7 and July 10

RAVESIDE MEMORIAL SERVICE AT THE IAO
Cemetery, in observance of the obon season, will
be held on Thursday, July 7, beginning at 5 p.m. by
Reverend Shinkai Murakami. He will next travel to the
Waikapu Cemetery to conduct Memorial Service at 5:00
p.m. and finally to the Japanese Cemetery to conduct Memorial Service at 6 p.m. Members who have relatives or
friends buried at these cemeteries are invited to participate
in the services.
On Thursday, July, 10, Graveside Memorial Service will
be conducted at Maui Memorial Park at 6 p.m. Families
and friends are invited to participate in the service.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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A message from Reverend Shinkai Murakami
Resident Minister – Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
O
Do we have Obake?
N THE ISLAND OF MAUI, OBON SEASON BEGINS IN
JUNE, and people truly enjoy participating in them. During the obon, "Obake stories" always makes people a
little more curious about them. Just out of curiosity, do you believe in Obake? Obake is ghost in English. In Japan, there are
many Obake stories, especially during Obon season. These stories are shown on the television and at movie theaters.
Living in Hawaii, we face and experience various multi-ethnic
cultures and many of us have adopted them in our daily lives.
For example, we eat sashimi, sushi, and nishime with chopsticks.
I believe that these are Japanese foods, but it is not only the Japanese who eat these foods with chopsticks. Other people living
in Hawaii have become accustomed to using chopsticks with these types of food. We eat Japanese foods at many occasions
without any hesitation. However, not only do we adopt the food
from other cultures, but also their superstitions as well.
"Bachi and Obake stories" are one of them and many people
firmly believe these "Bachi and Obake stories" without having any
proof. One Buddhist minister (not a Hongwanji minister) still tells
people about "Bachi" and making people feel fear if they do not
follow the minister’s or temple's directions.
They might say, "To save you from these fears, you should
purchase their `Omamori and Ofuda' which is good luck charm or
special blessing paper." How many of you believe that if you have
these Omamori and Ofuda with you, you are saved from Bachi,
Obake and misfortune?
One day I received a phone call from a local Japanese American and had the following conversation, "Sensei, there is an
Obake that is coming to my house, I feel that I have bad spirits
with me so called "Tsukimoto." So can you bless me and my
house? I have the `Omamori and Ofuda' with me but it’s not helping me at all." If I said "Hongwanji does not believe in such things,
and we don't do that kind of blessing or prayer, then we could
lose a potential member." So, I felt that this is the most wonderful
opportunity for me to share our Jodo Shinshu teaching and may
also gain a new member. So I replied to him and said, "Ok, why
don't we set a date and time for this special service." Then he
said, "Sensei, can you come as soon as possible?" It was Saturday morning around 10 a.m. so I told him "Okay." Then I got his
address and went to his house. It was not far from the temple so I
told him that I will be at your home within 10 to 15 minutes.
When I approached his house, I was able to recognize him
because he was waiting outside of his house and as soon as he
saw me he waved his hands and his body language look like telling me, "Sensei, this side."
When I came out from the car, he expressed his gratitude
with his body language and bows his head and said to me,
"Sensei, thank you very much for coming to my house in such
short notice. Sensei, can you have a special service and bless
this place and me."
So, I went in the house and chanted sutra and had him offer
incense. After the short service, I asked him what was happening
to him. Then he said, "You know Sensei, I always feel that my
shoulders are getting so heavy, just like I am carrying someone
on my back and getting so tired." I asked him, "Did you see that
person's face?" Then he said, "Well, she wore a white gown and
she looked like my mother who passed away about 15 years ago.
So, I told him that "We had a service and you offered the incense,
did you feel that she is still here with you?" Then he said, "I think
she went home."
So, I told him "Whenever an Obake visits you, you may chant
the sutra and offer the incense, and then the Obake may go
home." After we had the service, and he offered incense, he
looked like he was satisfied so I left his house. The next morning I
was wondering about him so I called his house. He said, "Sensei,
you did a great job. Because you chanted the sutra, the Obake
never came to my house last night. Can you please bring me a
new Ofuda and Omamori to my house so that I am able to seal
my house from the Obake?"
As you may know that we, the Hongwanji never used Ofuda
and Omamori for any protection, and we have never made and
sold those items. On top of that even if we have those items, I
don't think that we would be able to seal or protect anyone from
any Obake. I visited his house on Sunday afternoon and heard
more Obake stories from him.
At that time, he told me "Sensei, I have another Obake coming to my house from the back door. He usually comes around
sunset time, so Sensei, can you do another special blessing and
exterminate him." So, I asked him "Where the Obake is coming
from?" Then he pointed towards the kitchen side of the back
door. So I brought the incense burner, picture of the Buddha, and
chanted the sutra and have him offer incense. When we finished
the service, I asked him about "How often does the Obake come
to your home?"
He replied, "He usually comes to my house during sunset
time." So, I told him that I will come back around sunset time.
When I arrived at his house around sunset time, I felt a really nice
breeze from the mountain side but I noticed that outside of the
kitchen door making a funny noise like "kata, kata, kata." Just like
someone is trying to open the screen door. So I went to the kitchen side and discovered that one of the hinges of his screen door
was loose.
Because of the wind it was making a very unusual noise, like
someone is trying to break in. So I assumed that this was one's
true character which he is calling Obake so I ask him to bring a
screw driver and tightened the few loose screws of the screen
door and I closed it. After that there were no more funny noises
coming from outside. Then, he said. "Sensei, just in case, can
you please chant the sutra and bless this place. I don't want him
to come back after you leave my house." So, we did a short service and had him offer the incense. After the service he was
showing much relief on his face. I told him that "I think the problem was this screen door. Even if I gave you "Ofuda or Omamori."
if you didn't fix this screen door, you will continue to hear the unusual sound. `Omamori and Ofuda' would not solve this situation."
We, Jodo Shinshu do not believe that those items are able to
solve Obake, Bachi or unexpected happenings in our lives. Instead of believing in those items, we should think positively that
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-2-
we are already embraced by the Buddha and walking in the path
of truth. We shouldn't have to worry about Obake and Bachi in
our lives. I believe that superstition is one of the warning signs
towards us, and telling us that we should not go into the dangerous areas, or not to do bad things to others and so on. I feel that
our ancestors have left their wisdom or I would like to say expediencies to their children and grandchildren for them to stay away
from any dangerous situations.
Obon is the most wonderful time for us to reflect upon by
ourselves and for us to remember our ancestors' wonderful guidance and thoughtful mind. When we put our hands together in
Gassho and have a moment of silence, we are able to feel a
warm feeling in our heart. This great feeling is their thoughtful
mind, Omoiyarino kokoro in Japanese. We all inherit this value
and legacy from our great ancestors in our precious life.
I firmly believe that Obon is for us to be aware of this very
important guidance in our life.
Namo Amida Butsu
Matsuda says “Mahalo, for the support!”
S
ANDY MATSUDA, DIRECTOR OF ACTIVITIES, WOULD
like to express her deepest gratitude to everyone who
supported the chow fun fundraiser at the Maui Matsuri on
May 10. She would like to thank the members of the affiliate organizations who sold chow fun tickets and helped cook and
pack the chow fun. She said, “Without their support, we could not
have made this project a financial success. Thank you to our
members who purchased chow fun, helped with the project, and
visited the Maui Matsuri at Maui College.” Thank you to the members who helped with the decoration of the booth. Thank you to
the workers who stayed till the end and helped with the clean up.
Fukushima Taiko Union to present
Mahalo Concert on July 6
T
HE FUKUSHIMA TAIKO UNION, COMPRISED OF OVER
50 drumming ensembles from the Japanese prefecture of
Fukushima, will be presenting a Mahalo Concert at
Lahaina Jodo Mission on Sunday, July 6, from 6 p.m. to 8
p.m. The concert, titled "Mahalo Hawaii: Drums of Fukushima
Sunset Concert," is free to the public, and will feature Adatara
Daiko, Atago Jindaiko Renkyo Kazagumi, Soma Nomaoi Daiko,
and Uneme Daiko, an all-female troupe, alongside event cosponsor, Maui Taiko.
Following the triple disaster that befell the Tohoku region
of Japan in 2011, the people of Maui admirably united to support the thousands whose lives were devastated by the earthquake, tsunami, and ensuing nuclear disaster. The "Mahalo
Hawaii: Drums of Fukushima Sunset Concert" will be held to
thank the many generous supporters who sent aid to the disaster stricken region. Special thanks go out to the Aloha Initiative
Program, Japanese Cultural Society of Maui, Maui Fukushima
Kenjin Kai, and Maui Taiko.
The public is encouraged to bring folding chairs and blankets. Limited seating will be available for seniors. Water and
refreshments will be on sale. For additional information, please
contact Maui Taiko at (808) 283-9999 or [email protected].
Set up of Yagura and general clean up
of temple set for Sunday, July 20

CTIVITY CHAIRPERSON SANDY MATSUDA reminds members that the annual set up of the yagura
and general clean up of the temple and grounds will
be held on Sunday, July 20, beginning at 8 a.m. She requests that members bring their tools, rags, newspapers,
and other items needed for the clean up. “We hope to see
you all on July 20,” said chairperson Matsuda.
She reported that the affiliate organizations have been
assigned specific areas of work.
Buddhist Women’s ............................................. Temple and Nokotsudo
Janet Kubota, President
Roselani 4-H & Boy Scouts ................................................. Classrooms
Joyce Yamada & Dwight Nakao, Co-chairpersons
Jr. YBA............................................................................... Jr. YBA Room
Susan Taketa, Chairperson
Cub Scouts....................................................................... Cub Workshop
Steve Gima, Chairperson
Judo Club .................................................................................. Judo Hall
Herbert Kogasaka, Chairperson
Karate & Kendo........................................................... Karate/Kendo Hall
Ed Tamanaha, Co-chairperson
Mike Sone, Co-chairperson
Aldon Mochida........................................................................... Grounds
Dharma School .............................................................................. Lunch
Ed Tengan & Hideo Kawahara.................................................... Kitchen
Each chairperson is requested to inform members of
his/her organization for manpower help. Chair Sandy
Matsuda stated that lunch will be served after the cleanup
and construction of the yagura.
She humbly requests that members help with the dismantling of the yagura and decorations on Sunday, August 3, beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Obon refreshment fund still being solicited
K
YODAN PRESIDENT MICHAEL MUNEKIYO REMINDS
members that we are still soliciting for the Obon Refreshment fund. Checks may be made payable to the Wailuku
Hongwanji Mission.
“The refreshment fund is used to purchase refreshments for
the dancers and guests. Your continued support and kokua are
again solicited and will be most appreciated,” said Munekiyo.
Friend of the Dharma
Deadline for submitting information for publication is the 15th of the month
prior to the publication date.
The Wailuku Hongwanji Mission, 1828 Vineyard Street, Wailuku, HI
96793, publishes the newsletter monthly. Phone: 244-0406. The opinions
written by individual contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect
those of the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission.
STAFF
Joyce Hashimoto .............................................................. Rev. Shinkai Murakami
Franklin Hamasaki ...............................................................................Meiji Hirose
Prudence Ota...........................................................Richard Ouchi, Photographer
Contributing Editors
Buddhist Women’s Association ................................................. Ms. Janet Kubota
Boy Scouts..........................................................................Mrs. Emiko Sakagawa
Cub Scouts ....................................................................... Mrs. Shelley Pellegrino
Dharma School ........................................................................ Mrs. Sandra Hirata
Judo Club............................................................................ Mr. Herbert Kogasaka
Preschool ................................................................................Mrs. Karen Yoshida
Roselani 4-H Club...................................................................Mrs. Joyce Yamada
Rakuen Club ......................................................................... Mrs. Nancy Shimoda
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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Affiliate organizations
Buddhist Women’s News
Janet Kubota, Reporter
BWA to meet on Sunday, July 20
P
RESIDENT JANET KUBOTA REPORTED THAT BWA
members will be holding their monthly meeting on
Sunday, July 20, immediately after the general cleanup. On the agenda will be the approval to support the Maui
Fair Chow Fun project, and an obon fundraiser.
BWA members to assist in the General
Clean up of temple on July 20
B
UDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION MEMBERS are
reminded that the General Clean up of the temple
and Nokotsudo will be held on Sunday, July 20, beginning at 8 a.m. BWA members help is needed.
BWA members invited to attend Aloha
Luncheon on July 26
Women invited to join the BWA
T
HE BUDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION EXTEND AN open invitation to all Kyodan women to
join the organization. BWA offers fellowship and
participation in activities which embrace the Jodo
Shinshu teachings and support the Kyodan, Dharma School,
and Jr. YBA. Dana activities include visitations to care facilities and meals to homebound members.
As a member of the Wailuku Hongwanji BWA, you are
part of a larger network of Dharma friends through the Maui
United BWA and the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii
Federation of BWA’s. In addition, by attending the World
Buddhist Women’s Convention held every four years, you
are connected to an international circle of women of Jodo
Shinshu faith.
Retirement is not a requirement to join the BWA! To the
contrary, working women are encouraged to join and participate in activities as their family and work schedules permits.
Please feel free to contact any BWA member for more information regarding membership.
Obon Happi Coats for Sale
By Buddhist Womens’ Assn.
B
WA MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND THE
Aloha Kupuna Luncheon on Saturday, July 26, at the
Grand Wailea. The luncheon is sponsored by the
Maui Senior Citizens P&CC (Planning and Coordinating
Council). The cost for the luncheon is $33 per person. The
BWA will subsidize $10, so the cost to members is $23.
Tickets may be purchased from Janet Kubota (242-5624)
Deadline to purchase tickets is July 2.
Bus transportation will be available. The bus will depart
from the temple at a time TBA. A donation of $2 will be collected from each member attending the luncheon.
Adults
$25 - 30
Children
$15 - 20
OR
Omigaki project to be held on July 28
C
Buyer provides own material
Adult: Small/Medium – 2 Yards
Adult: Large – 2 ½ Yards
Sewing Charge - $15
Children – 1 ½ Yards
Sewing Charge – $10
HAIRPERSON MOLLY TOKUNAGA WOULD LIKE to
remind members that the Omigaki project will be held
on Monday, July 28, at 8 a.m. She encourages members to please come and help make the work easier. She
said, “You can sit together and talk stories while working on
the ornaments.”
BWA cancels craft fair for year 2014
T
HE BWA AUTUMN CRAFT AND FOOD FAIR scheduled for November 8, 2014 has been canceled due to
conflicting events being held that weekend on Oahu
and Maui, and non-participation of Oahu vendors.
To the vendors who have already submitted applications,
your registration fee will be returned. The craft fair will be
held in 2015, and we look forward to your participation next
year.
Dharma School News
Sandra Hirata, Reporter
Dharma School students to take “vacation” during the month of July
S
TUDENTS IN THE DHARMA SCHOOL PROGRAM are
taking a “vacation” during the month of July. During the
month, adult volunteers will be in charge of temple services. The volunteers will be called on to be the Master of
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-4-
Ceremonies, collect offertory, act as greeters, ring the
kansho bell, and read the aspiration.
No service will be held on Sunday, July 20, because of
the General Clean Up of the temple for obon festivities.
Dharma students encouraged to attend
Board of Directors Service on July 13
D
IRECTOR SANDRA HIRATA ENCOURAGES Dharma School students to attend the Sunday Service
chaired by the Kyodan Board of Directors on July 13,
beginning at 8 a.m. Mr. Dale Sugiki will be the organist.
No Dharma School on August 3
B
ECAUSE OF THE DISMANTLING OF THE YAGURA
and decorations after the obon festival, there will be
no Dharma School on Sunday, August 3. Students
and parents are asked to help with the cleanup of the temple
grounds. The Dharma School classes will begin the new
school year on August 10th—Registration Day.
District-wide “Kick-Off” picnic set for
August 10
T
HE ANNUAL DHARMA
School “Kick Off” Picnic,
sponsored by the Valley
Isle Dharma School Teachers
Association (VIDSTA), will be held on Sunday, August 10, at
the Lahaina Jodo Mission. Members needing transportation
are to meet at the temple to carpool at 8 a.m. Service begins at 9 a.m. and will be followed with games, swimming,
and lunch. Students and parents are invited to the picnic. In
order that enough food is prepared, please call the office at
244-0406 to indicate the number of participants attending the
kick-off no later than Tuesday, August 5.
Reverend Kunisaki Graveside Service
set for August 31
D
HARMA SCHOOL STUDENTS WILL HOLD A
graveside service for Wailuku Hongwanji first resident minister, Reverend Hojun Kunisaki on Sunday, August 31, following the 8 a.m. temple service. Students and temple members are encouraged to attend the
service at the Wailuku Japanese Cemetery.
Rakuen Club News
Nancy Shimoda, Reporter
Rakuen Club to hold meeting on
Thursday, July 10
R
AKUEN MEMBERS WILL HOLD THEIR MONTHLY
meeting Thursday, July 10, beginning with a service
at 8:30 a.m. At the meeting, members will be provided with information on the Kapuna Aloha Party at the Grand
Wailea on July 26, and go over the bylaws of the club.
August meeting canceled
T
HE AUGUST MEETING FOR THE RAKUEN CLUB
has been canceled because of the Aloha Party. The
next meeting will be held on Thursday, September
13, beginning at 8:30 a.m. with a service. Tickets to the
luncheon will be sold at the July 10, meeting.
Acer Pahukoa receives Kunisaki
Scholarships
T
HE WAILUKU HONGWANJI KYODAN PRESENTED Acer Pahukoa with the Reverend Hojun
Kunisaki Scholarship for 2014. The scholarship is
open to high school seniors and college students pursuing
higher education who are involved with Wailuku Hongwanji
activities or affiliate organizations. A summary of Acer
Pahukoa is shown below.
Dharma School registration to be held
Acer is a graduate of Kamehameha
on August 17
Schools Maui Campus and is the son of
EGISTRATION FOR THE 2014-2015 DHARMA
Faith Tengan of Wailuku. He will be atSchool program will be held on Sunday, August 17,
tending Carleton College in Minnesota in
immediately after the 8 a.m. service. Co-director
the fall and plans to major in Economics.
Sandra Hirata encourages parents to register their children
He will also be playing on their football
into the program. She reported that a year-long plan of acteam. In the future, he would like to retivities has been prepared for the students.
turn to Maui and use his degree to open
Acer Pahukoa
his own business and provide young
WHM Dharma School to kick-off propeople with the opportunity to learn
gram on Sunday, August 24
about business while earning a wage. Acer's activities inHE 2014-2015 DHARMA SCHOOL PROGRAM AT
cluded serving as President of the Wailuku Hongwanji Junior
Wailuku Hongwanji Mission will begin on August 24,
YBA, a Senior Patrol Leader for Troop 40 of the Boy Scouts,
beginning at 8 a.m. Co-Director Sandy Hirata invites
he also received his Eagle Scout this year, was the Coall students, from kindergarten to grade 12, to become a part
Captain of the Kamehameha School varsity soccer team as
of the Buddhist educational program at Wailuku Hongwanji
well as a member of the football team, a member of the
Mission. She promises a different kind of program—both edKamehameha School Concert Band and a member of the
ucational and fun.
National Honor Society.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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

Cub Scouts News
Shelley Pellegrino, Reporter
Cub Pack 40 participate
in Memorial Day flag activity
C
UB PACK 40 SCOUTS PARTICIPATED IN THE
Memorial Day flag placing event at Maui Memorial
Park in Wailuku. As always, it was a memorable and
moving experience for these young men.
1st Place: ...................................................... Adam Fukunaga
2nd Place: .....................................................Aaron Nakamura
3rd Place:.................................................. Kalaheo Sakamoto
4th Place:.......................................................... Zach Kuraoka
5th Place:......................................................... Nicholas Gima
Best-In-Show: ................................................. Hau'oli Inciong
Coolest Design:......................................... Matthew Takakura
Best Kid Built:..................................................Mitchell Suzuki
Blow Real Hard!
Riley, Logan, Skye, Kody, Leo, Matt, D’Marco participate in the flag
placing at Maui Memorial Park as part of the Memorial Day activity.
Cody and William compete in one of the Bear Den heats in the
raingutter regatta.
Matt, Leo, D’Marco give their hand salute after placing an American
flag at the gravesite of a veteran.
Raingutter Regatta a Huge Success
P
ACK 40 SCOUTS COMBINED THEIR BUILDING
skills with their blowing skills in the Pack’s semiannual Raingutter Regatta. Congratulations to the
following winners (next column):
1st place winner Adam and second place winner Aaron have their photo
taken after being awarded their trophies.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-6-
Webelos II Scouts – Next year, it’s on to Troop 40. Front row: Dre, Jonathan, Tristen, Kailana, Nick, Caleb; back row: Den Leader Scott Matsuura,
Quinton, Michael, Cubmaster Steve Gima.
Webelos I Den leader Lance Nakamura and a few of his charges—
Cami, Matt, Tyler, Austin, Aaron.
Tiger and Wolf scouts having fun in the woods at Graduation Camp
held at Camp Maluhia.
Kalaheo proudly shows off his 3rd place trophy when he participated in
the raingutter regatta.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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Temple ACTIVITIES
2014 SongFest at the Fujimatsuri
Dharma School students were presented with Certificate of Achievement at the Award Sunday Service on June 1.
Kami, Kristi, Donna, and Donavan join Florence Tanaka as ukulele
accompanists for the choir at the Fujimatsuri Festival at the Lahaina
Hongwanji on May 18.
Eric Ikeuchi, Kara, Frankie Nakahashi and Macie participated as ukulele
accompanists at the Fujimatsuri Festival on May 18.
Rip Pahukoa was the recipient of the Hojun Kunisaki Educational
Scholarship for 2014.
Wailuku Hongwanji members join the choir in singing BJ Soriano's gatha, "Listen to Amida With Your Heart" during the SongFest at the Fujimatsuri at
Lahaina Hongwanji conducted by Joan Tamori. This year, the group was accompanied by the WHM Dharma School Ukulele Band (including fathers)
under the direction of Florence Tanaka.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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Temple activities
The Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts were treated with shaved ice after
participating in the Memorial Day.
BWA members Janet Kubota, Lillian Satoshige, Sylvia Ishikawa, and
Sandy Hirata participate in the Kaunoa Senior Obon Festival.
Rakuen members Momoye Shimada, Peggy Honda, Lillian Satoshige,
Margaret Honda, Yoshiko Fujiwara, and Leighton Kono visited the
Ulupalakua Winery on their excursion on June 12.
Florence Tanaka, Fumie Hanada, and Nancy Shimoda wait for the
bus to take them to their next destination—Nui Farms.
Rakuen members listen to guide as she takes them on a tour of the
winery.
Rakuen members complete their tour of the Ulupalakua Winery on
June 12.
Momoye Shimada, Florence Tanaka, and Joyce Baker enjoy their
lunch at Nui Farms.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-9-
Boy Scouts News
Emiko Sakagawa, Reporter
Boy Scouts post flags at
Maui Memorial Park
FOUR BOY SCOUTS FROM TROOP
40, along with their leaders, participated in the Memorial Day
Activity by placing an American flag at the gravesites of veterans at the Maui Memorial Park on May 24.
Brennan and Layke give a hand salute after placing an American flag
at the grave site of a veteran.
Corin and Kenley participate in Memorial Day ceremony at the Maui
Memorial Park on May 24.
Scout Leader Lance Yamauchi; scouts Corin, Kenley, Layke, and Brennan; Scout Leader Emiko Sakagawa, and Scoutmaster Dwight Nakao have
their photo taken after placing flags at the gravesites of veterans.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
- 10 -
Preschool News
Karen Yoshida, Reporter
Look at our Green Beans!!!
Izea, Caylee, Jacob, Dash, and Ellie join Mrs. Kumu table. They were
learning how to make leis by using straws and paper flowers. They did
a great job stringing the flowers and straws together to make beautiful
leis.
Kison, Olive, Keanu, Cheyra-mae, Kaytlyn, and Tyler helped in the
garden by harvesting our green beans. Great job children! The children ate their beans with their lunch. Yum!
Making
New
Friends!
Dash, Jolie, Sophie, and Conner dance to the rhythm of music by
using streamers and colorful wands while listening to under the sea
music.
Lance and one of our new children, Trent, became really good friends.
They decided to take a break from playing to sit down and relax.
Summer has begun; Logan and the other children are having a wet
and cool day outside on our Slip N Slide during our Friday Water Play
Day.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
- 11 -
Dis-n-Dat News
Handicapped parking available during
obon service and dance
H
ANDICAPPED PARKING WILL BE
available in the back parking lot
(entrance on Mill Street) during
Wailuku Hongwanji’s Obon service and
dance for individuals with a handicap permit.
The permit must be visible so the Boy Scouts may assist you
in parking your car.
Obon Mairi continues
R
EVEREND SHINKAI MURAKAMI CONTINUES WITH
“Obon Mairi” (house-to-house visitation) for Wailuku
Hongwanji members until Wednesday, July 31.
Kyodan members need to contact Reverend Shinkai Murakami to make arrangements for date and time when the minister may visit their home by calling the temple at 244-0406.
He may also be contacted on his cell phone at 214-3067.
Help needed to set up chochins, etc. on
July 31

ELP IS NEEDED TO HANG CHOCHINS AND OTHER decorations on Thursday, July 31, beginning at
4:30 p.m. Chairperson Sandy Matsuda stated that
the work should take less than an hour. If you are available
to help, please come.
Obon season July-August schedule is
posted below
T
HE MAUI BUDDHIST COUNCIL OBON SCHEDULE
for the months of July and August are shown below.
Because some family members may be observing
Hatsubon and need to travel, the dates of the obon services
have been posted.
Date
July 5
July 11
July 12
July 18
July 19
July 25
July 26
August 1
August 2
August 9
August 16
August 22
August 23
August 30
A
CTIVITY CHAIRPERSON SANDY MATSUDA
needs help in dismantling the Yagura and decorations on Sunday, August 3. Work begins at 7:30
a.m. Refreshment will be served after the work is completed.
Wailuku Hongwanji’s 115th Anniversary set for Sunday, October 19
O
N SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2014, THE WAILUKU
Hongwanji Mission will celebrate its 115th anniversary
as a congregation and a temple. Events on October
19th will include a special commemoration service at 9 a.m.,
followed by a celebratory brunch in the social hall at 10:30
a.m.
The brunch will be honoring the temple's keirokai members who are 80 years and older. The cost for the brunch will
be $1 per person. Due to limited seating, those wishing to
attend are asked to call the church office at 244-0406 to sign
up.
In addition to a brunch, the celebratory event in the social hall will include a wide variety of entertainment. Founded
in 1899, Wailuku Hongwanji Mission served as a spiritual
and social gathering place for the Issei or first generation
Japanese immigrants who came to Maui in search of a
brighter future. With the Issei's vision for the betterment of
family and community, Wailuku Hongwanji Mission thrived as
a center of Buddhist teachings, and served as a home for
many affiliated organizations that support the temple and
larger community. Over the course of time, the Mission built
a rich history of service to the community, leading to its current scouting, martial arts, Dharma School, Junior Young
Buddhist Association, Buddhist Women's Association, Japanese Language School, and preschool programs, among
others.
Gakuen registration is still open
Maui Buddhist Council
2014 Obon Schedule
Day
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Saturday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Saturday
Dismantling of Yagura and decorations set for Sunday, August 3
Temple
Lahaina Jodo
Service
7:00 p.m.
Dance
8:00 p.m.
Paia Mantokuji
6:00 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
Kahului Hongwanji
7:00 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
Makawao Hongwanji
6:30 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Wailuku Hongwanji
6:45 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
Kahului Jodo
Paia Rinzai Zen
7:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
Lahaina Hongwanji
6:30 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Kula Shofukuji
6:30 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
R
EGISTRATION FOR STUDENTS INTERESTED IN
attending the Japanese Language School is still open.
Classes for the 2014-15 school year are scheduled to
begin on Monday, August 4. Parents should contact the
temple office at 244-0406 to register their children as soon
as possible so supplies may be ordered.
Free bus transportation will be provided for students enrolled at Wailuku, Puu Kukui, Waihee, Kahului, Lihikai, and
Pomaikai Elementary Schools, along with Maui Waena Intermediate School. A child’s photograph is needed so bus
ID cards may be prepared for students riding the bus.
Buddha’s Quote
“Peace comes from within. Do not seek it
without.”
“A jug fills drop by drop.”
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
- 12 -
Editor’s Note: I was looking for an article that explains in
simple terms the meaning of obon and hatsubon. I thought
Reverend Jerry K. Hirano of the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple
provided an interesting and informative article.
Why We Dance
By Rev. Jerry K. Hirano
Salt Lake Buddhist Temple
Though I, my life having run its course,
Return to the Pure Land of Eternal Rest,
Come back shall I to Earth again and again
Even as the waves of Wakano-ura Bay.
When alone you rejoice in the Sacred Teachings
Believe that there are two.
And when there are two to rejoice
Believe that there are three.
And that other shall be I Shinran.
T
HE FIRST OBON IS SAID TO HAVE BEEN HELD
in China in 538 CE. As Buddhism traveled from China to Korea, from Korea to Japan and now into the
United States, the meaning and type of Obon festivities have
evolved depending on the culture of the country. In Japan,
where Jodo Shinshu finds its roots, Obon is often explained
as the time when Buddhists welcome the souls of their ancestors for a three-day visit to the world of the living. This is
quite contrary to the beliefs of our celebration of Obon. In
orthodox Buddhism, especially Jodo Shinshu, there is no
such thing as an eternal soul, unique and distinct to each
individual. Therefore, there can be no nether worlds occupied by disembodied souls floating about, returning once a
year, demanding sacrifices and offerings from the living and
then dispensing benefits or curses accordingly. This explanation of Obon is nothing more than a simplistic folk superstition that will not suffice for our Jodo Shinshu system of belief.
The Obon and Hatsubon service along with the Bon
odori are not a mere cultural entertainment. It is not a quaint
addition to the cultural diversity of our Salt Lake Community.
Although our Obon Festival is a time when a wide variety of
individuals come together to celebrate along with us, the entire weekend is a memorial service for the dead and an acknowledgment and celebration of the continuing influence of
our deceased relatives upon our present lives. Thus a celebration of we the living at this moment in time. For we are
profoundly molded and influenced by the past actions in
thought, speech and the physical acts of our ancestors.
Those past actions continue to affect who and what we are
at this moment. We in turn affect the future, as a result of the
actions we create. It is a revolving cycle of birth and death
from moment to moment. This awareness speaks to us at
the deepest levels that we are not alone. Our Obon Festival
and Obon and Hatsubon service is a wonderful opportunity
to remember those who have died, accepting and forgiving in
our continuing relationship with them. As we prepare for the
Obon Festival with the dance practices and food prepara-
tions, let us not forget all those that have come before us, to
allow us this wonderful celebration.
As a child I remember coming to the practices and seeing all the other children and adults laughing and having fun.
It was a positive reinforcement of the life of my temple. The
hundreds of people who came for the Bon odori, made me
proud to be a Buddhist. This was a time when I realized the
Nembutsu teaching was not only for Sunday mornings. Over
the years, I have come to see how much work is involved to
bring about those wonderful memories. Now I am able to
see, speak and act in ways to show those involved in Obons
past, that their efforts were worth the time and energy expended.
Now I will bring my daughters Kacie and Taylor, to see
their parents, family and friends enjoy this time together. In
time we will speak about how their Grandmother loved dancing in the Obon. How the cedar chest at Grandpa's house
filled with Yukatas and other Japanese paraphernalia belonged to their Grandma who is no longer physically with us.
Through our dancing and participation in the service, I will
show them that Grandma is still a part of us, embracing,
laughing and enjoying this time we share.
I can explain to them how the poem I began this article
with, is Shinran's understanding of how our past relationships continue to influence the life we live. How as we dance
in Obon or recite the Nembutsu, their grandmother is there
with them, along with Shinran and countless of others. My
hope will be that in their time and turn. They will be able to
share these insights with their children and grandchildren. As
our temple continues to prosper in the light of Amida's wondrous compassion, won't you join us in this wonderful event?
You are never too old to dance, never too old to say Namo
Amida Butsu! I would like to close this month's article with
one of my favorite poems about Bon odori. It was written by
Rev. Mas Kodani and is included in his book Dharma Chatter, it’s called Senshin Bon Odori. However, for all its meaning, it could be called Salt Lake Bon Odori. Even though you
are happy, you should dance. Even though you are sad, you
should dance. Even though you are excited with living, you
should dance. Even though you are bored with living, you
should dance.
Even though you are embarrassed to put on Yukata and
Geta and dance, you should dance. Even though you put on
Yukata and Geta and swagger like a puffed-up chicken, you
should dance. When old friends come to visit, you smile and
laugh and act the fool. Why then so timid and somber when
remembering your ancestors? As a leaf falls from a tree and
flutters to the ground, showing all sides of itself, front and
back, so should you dance. Even though you are a congealed mass of greed, anger, stupidity, you should dance.
Even though you are an enlightened saint, you should
dance. Dance not for form, dance not for show, dance not for
grace, dance not awkwardly to conceal your awkwardness,
dance not for identity, dance not for Japaneseyness. Dance
to dance; your ancestors and relatives are your ancestors
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
- 13 -
and relatives because they are your ancestors and relatives;
dance to dance because you dance. Heavy, Heavy, Odore,
Odore! Bummer, Bummer, Odore, Odore!
Kekko, Kekko, Odore, Odore! Chikusho, Shikusho,
Odore, Odore! Bonno no katamari, Bodai no Jiyu. Soku
Soku, Toku Toku Amidabutsu. Kekko Kekko, Odore Odore!
Odoranu Aho-san, Odore Odore!
Namuamidabutsu, tada Odore!
Choi, Choi!
Business Manager’s Message
By Franklin Hamasaki
If your mailing address changes,
please let us know
B
ECAUSE WE MAIL THE TEMPLE NEWSLETTER
via bulk mail, your monthly newsletter is not forwarded to your new address—they are just destroyed. You don’t get the newsletter and the temple pays
for the newsletter that was not delivered. Please help the
temple by letting us know of your new address. Mahalo.
Acknowledgments
KYODAN
Mr. Franklin Hamasaki
Mrs. Harriet Yoshino – In memory of Douglas Yamada
Mrs. Helen Ohigashi – In memory of Richard Omuro
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
Mrs. Machiko Moriyasu – In memory of Tadao Murata
DHARMA SCHOOL
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
ROSELANI 4-H
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
PRESCHOOL
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
BUDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
115TH ANNIVERSARY
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
Hoji Memorial Services (July)
Date
July 1
July 28
July 7
July 7
July 13
July 27
July 3
July 5
July 17
OBON REFRESHMENT
Mrs. Patricia Mainaga
Ms. Ethel Fujii
July 12
GOTANE
July 5
July 11
July 12
Mrs. Nancy Tonai
Mrs. Dorothy Murakami
NOKOTSUDO
Dr. Kevin Omuro – In memory of Richard Omuro
Mrs. Lynn Yamauchi – In memory of Richard Omuro
Mrs. Robyn Osaki – In memory Richard Omuro
Mrs. Teruko Fujimoto
Mrs. Winifred Saiki – In memory of Masahiro Saiki
Mr. Masaru Taketa – In memory of Randy Taketa
Ms. Itsuyo Kusuda – In memory of Emi Kusuda
Mr. James Miura – In memory of Junichi Miura
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
BOY SCOUTS
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
CUB SCOUTS
Mrs. Misayo Murata – In memory of Tadao Murata
Name
st
1 Year – 2013
Hiyakumoto, Isamu (YU CHI)
Nagoshi, James (SHO DO)
3rd Year – 2012
Yamaguchi, Tsugio (TAI KEN)
Hayase, Dorothy Chiyoko (CHI GAN)
7th Year – 2008
Ting, Allen (KYO DO)
Ito, Fujino (JIN SHI)
13th Year – 2002
Suzuki, Walter (JYO TO)
Taguchi, Masayuki (JYO KOU)
25th Year – 1990
Naito, Earl Isamu (KAN KYO IN
SHAKU JINTOKU
33rd Year – 1982
Kubo, Peggy (KO GE)
50th Year – 1965
Tanaka, Shinzo (JYO KO)
Gushiken, Kochi (DAI CHI SHIN SHI)
Kawaoka, Hisayo (SHIN I)
Deepest Sympathy
The Wailuku Hongwanji Mission extends deepest sympathy and condolence to the families of the
following:
Murata, Tadao (CHU GI) Age 92, 1649 Kalama
Street, Wailuku; passed away on June 2, 2014.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
- 14 -
An Open Letter to Members and Friends:
Members of the 115th Anniversary Committee continue
to solicit donations for the renovation of the Social Hall
aging sliding doors and the installation of an awning. The
awning has been completed and doors have been ordered. The timeline for the completion of this project is at
the end of June.
Donations are being received from our members and
friends. The goal of the committee is to raise $100,000.
This will cover the cost of renovation, which is estimated to
cost $93,790. To date, the committee has received
$51,093 in donations—51% of its goal. Your assistance in
reaching the goal will certainly be appreciated.
Please use the form below to make your donation.
Please make check payable to: Wailuku Hongwanji Mission with a memo: 115th Anniversary.
On Sunday, October 19, 2014 Wailuku Hongwanji
Buddhist Temple will be commemorating its 115 years of
service to this community. Please reserve the date on
your calendar and join us in the celebration.
The 115th Anniversary Committee
Cut and Return with Donation …. Cut and Return with Donation …. Cut and Return with Donation …. Cut and Return with Donation ….
Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
115th Anniversary Donation Form
NAME:
Please PRINT legibly
LAST, FIRST
ADDRESS:
CITY:
ST:
PHONE #:
ZIP:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
Donated Amount
Office Use Only
ONE-TIME DONATION: $
RECEIPT NUMBER:
DONATION IS IN MEMORY OF:
Please PRINT legibly
Pledged Amount
Monthly Amount of
To be paid equally in 10 months of: $
PLEDGE TO DONATE: $
Office Use Only
#1
#2
#3
#4
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
PLEDGE RECEIPT
#:
DONOR’S SIGNATURE:
Please make check Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
payable to:
Send Form and Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
Check to: 1828 Vineyard Street
DATE:
115th Anniversary
Memo on
Check:
115
TH
DONATION PLAQUE
Diamond........................................................... $10,000+
Platinum ............................................................. $5,000+
Wailuku, HI 96793
Gold .................................................................... $2,500+
Silver .................................................................. $1,000+
Bronze ................................................................... $500+
Copper................................................................... $300+
Contributor ................................................... All Donors
Wailuku Hongwanji Mission is a non-profit charitable organization incorporated as an eleemosynary, ecclesiastical and education corporation in the State of Hawaii. Since no good and services were given in return for your generosity, the full amount of your donation should
be tax deductible. WHM Federal Identification Number is: 99-0082412.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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

“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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