Buddhist Church of Parlier

BUDDHIST CHURCH OF PARLIER
P.O. Box 547 360 Newmark Avenue
Parlier, California 93648
Phone: (559) 646-2844
TAKE REFUGE IN THE LIGHT OF JOY
July/August 2014
Three Aspects to the Story of O-Bon
O-Bon is the most familiar festival celebrated by Buddhists. The dates are July 13 through 16th annually.
Historically speaking, the origin of Bon is usually ascribed to the legend of Maudgalyayana in the Ullambana-sutra. According to the sutra, there was a disciple by name of Maudgalyayana (Sanskrit) or Mokuren
(Chinese), among the chief followers of Sakyamuni Buddha. Being one of the greatest disciples of the Buddha,
the literature tells us, he was endowed with the supernatural transcendental power to see any happening in the
entire Universe. One day, as he cast a glance into the world of hungry ghost, Preta-loka, to his astonishment, he
found his beloved, departed mother being tortured by hunger and thirst. Shuddering at this pitiful scene, he sent
a bowl of rice to her, but as soon as her lips touched the food, it burst into flames. Without hesitation he gave her
some water, but the result was the same. Weeping aloud in bloody tears, Mokuren sought his master Sakyamuni
Buddha to ask what to do about his poor mother. The teacher’s answer was, “Even your sincere piety, Mokuren,
cannot save your mother who has been receiving the result of her own deeds in her previous life. The only way
left for you is to show the deepest sincerity possible. His exertion of a torrent of love, through pure Dana, was
depicted in the sutra as climaxing in the final deliverance of his beloved mother. The Bon Odori is ascribed to this
exultation of Mokuren’s mother and her co-habitants in the preta-loka.
Now looking at this legend, we find that there are stages of interpretation in the Mokuren episode. They are
the first, second and third from my interpretation.
Before going into the main topic, we should know the way of understanding Buddhism itself. Buddhism should
be studied not with intellect only, but with both mind and body. Buddhism never denies science but never clings
to it either. We may say that it is superlogical, not anti-logical.
In Japan, a young man invited a famous priest for a visit. In the waiting room there was a table on which was a
goldfish tank. Seeing about 20 goldfish moving in the tank, the youth asked the priest, “Are you able to count the
fish in there?” “Yes” was the answer. “The fish are moving constantly, how can you count them?”
“I will kill them first and count one by one.” The young man was astonished at this answer and shouted, “Kill!
How can you say that? That is the last word I had expected from a Buddhist priest who always preached “Not to
kill”. “Take it easy young man. I will not actually kill them. I ask to borrow your cell-camera. I will take a picture
of the tank and count the goldfish in the picture.” The fish in the picture are not alive. In that sense, the priest said
that he was going to stop the life of the goldfish for a moment.
This kind of interpretation is the first step in the episode of Mokuren. That is the literal reading of the story. If
our question to this story is literal, the answer will be literal and we may learn many Buddhistic teachings such as
the practice of pure giving, the love of one’s mother and the Buddha’s compassion.
The second step of interpretation is to understand that the pitiful story of Mokuren’s mother was a projection
of Mokuren’s innerexistence, of imperfection; of suffering; of ignorance, ignorant desire -to satiate endless
covetousness.
The third step is to interpret that Mokuren is not a man remote from us but we, ourselves. Each step is important, but the final step culminates in Shinran’s confession that Amida’s Vow is only for himself. This does not
point to his arrogance, but his most sincere look into himself.
Our sincere longing for what we are lost of is expressed in the O-Bon ballad:
O-Bon is a joyous season,
On these days, My beloved ones who have departed,
Even they return to us on this earth.
With this special Buddhist season, I am sure that family members who have lost any of their loved ones during
the past year or years really feel the deep meaning. “Joy” is not of course, ordinary, shallow-rooted or vacant, but
an unshakable source of reliance. This is the unmovable condition of mind derived from entrusting in Buddha’s
teaching. “They return” stands for our most sincere longing for our loved ones.
Each of the three steps of interpreting O-Bon have their own significance, finally resolving into Shinran’s
joyful confession that, “Amida’s vow is only for me, Shinran.” This is not the voice of arrogance.
1
MESSAGE FROM REV. ALAN SAKAMOTO
Post-It Notes
Hello! How are you? It’s already July, and half the year has gone by. Where did all the time go? I hope that
you all have a wonderful Fourth of July Holiday. What will you eat? Many of you already know that I love food,
and am looking forward to the BBQ hamburgers and hot dogs. I also love fireworks, so I’m looking forward to
the holiday show too.
Just recently, I was reading an interesting article by Eric Barker, “How 5 Post-It Notes Can Make You
Happy, Confident and Successful.” I was very curious after only reading the title. You see, I have a dear friend
who is constantly writing notes to herself on Post-It notes and sticking them everywhere you can think of.
Important dates and events? She writes it on a Post-It. Phone numbers? She writes it on a Post-It. She writes notes
so often that sometimes I think she has to recall where she put the Post-It! And, yes, sometimes she forgets where
she stuck them. I laugh with her about them, and kid her about them all the time. But, in the end, this system works
well for her, and I respect that.
Eric Barker cites some interesting studies. One says, “older people shown pictures of faces or situations tend
to focus on and remember the happier ones more and the negative ones less.” He also notes that simple reminders help people “act more ethically, quit smoking, and save more money.” So, he suggests that a couple of well
placed Post-It Notes can have a major impact on our lives. He says to begin by writing notes on three things that
you are thankful for. And, says, “we think of happiness as something deep and profound but it’s often as simple
as keeping the good things on top of the mind.”
This is very similar in ways to Naikon therapy which has an exercise where you recall three things that you
are thankful for that occurred during the day. How many times do we come home from a tough day at work or
school and focus on all the negative things that went wrong. We bring home and hang on to all those negatives,
and we perpetuate that terrible, angry, upset and depressed feeling. We need to let that all go. Try the exercise and
think of those three good things, things that you are grateful for. Soon, you will find that you are much less volatile
and that you consistently practice a positive attitude. Try it! You’ll be surprised how a simple daily exercise can
change your outlook.
Eric Barker also suggests writing on a Post-It Note something that you are proud of having accomplished.
Are you proud of graduating from college? How about finishing that degree while you were working full time
and raising a family? Write it down, and this will be a great reminder of a proud and confident accomplishment.
How about writing down something that you are looking forward to? This note can provide you with an optimistic
reminder. Looking forward to something is powerful and makes us hopeful, happier and optimistic.
My suggestion? I think that you can write “Namu Amida Butsu” and place it somewhere to remind you about
how thankful we should be. We are fortunate to live at this moment in time, to have our family with whom we
can share those precious and joyous moments in life, to have friends who stand with us together to face all the
difficulties in life, and to all those who preceded us to pave a path that allows us to live a life with the Buddha
Dharma as our guide. The Buddha Dharma is present and teaches us how we can live a much more satisfied
life. We are indeed fortunate for all those Buddhist teachers and Sangha members who have come before us. We
owe a debt of gratitude to them, and a simple Post-It Note can keep that thought in the forefront as we live our
hectic lives.
It is also Obon season! Bring out those “kachi kachis.” Bring that empty stomach so you can enjoy all those
different delicacies, and bring a huge smile as you dance around the Yagura with all your friends. Yes, it’s a
special time. Do you run the Obon circuit and attend other temples and festivals to dance and eat? It has always
been one of my favorite times at the temple. Perhaps, I’ll see you dancing this year, or maybe in line to get some
food. But, maybe, just maybe, it is something else to put on that Post-It to bring a smile and a moment to thank
all those family members who have come before us. Again, a moment to remember all that they have contributed
for our benefit.
Oh, and back to my friend. I guess I shouldn’t be so hard on her about all those notes all over the place. They
remind her of what to do, when to do it, and yes, even more importantly, to keep smiling and be happy in the
moment. I guess I should follow her lead and head to the office supply store to buy some Post-It Notes!
Namu Amida Butsu,
Rev. Alan Sakamoto
2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
TEMPLE
The Buddhist Church of Parlier would like to extend our
appreciation to the following for their generous donations
Mr. & Mrs. Johnson Kakutani
Windle Family
Mr. & Mrs. David Ogami
Mrs. Toshiye Nakamichi
Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Koga
Mrs. Naomi Tamura
Mr. & Mrs. Mark Takemoto
Sangha Gathering
Sangha offerings
Myrtle Matsumoto
Memorial for Tadako Kakutani.......................................................$50.00.
Memorial for Tsune Kimura.........................................................$100.00.
Memorial for Terumi Ogami...........................................................$20.00.
7th year memorial for Tom Nakamichi.........................................$100.00.
Sons’ weddings.............................................................................$600.00.
Memorial for Shizue Kagawa.........................................................$25.00.
Picnic..............................................................................................$72.00.
June donations.................................................................................$63.00.
Bishop’s & Lady Ohtani Memorial Service...................................$35.00
Donation for Monthly Newsletter...................................................$50.00.
.
DONATIONS for MONTHLY MEMORIAL SERVICE:
Mrs. Sumiko Ebisuda.....................$20.00
Mrs. Takako Kanemoto.................$30.00
Mrs. Hiroko Kimoto......................$25.00
Mrs. Natsuko Kimura....................$20.00
Mr. & Mrs. Shiz Kimura................$20.00
Mrs. Jean Kobashi...........................$20.00
Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Miyakawa........$35.00
Mrs. Toshiye Nakamichi............... $20.00
Mr. & Mrs. Ken Tsuboi.................. $25.00
Wong-Sing Family.......................... $80.00
Mr. Robert Yano............................. $20.00
Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Yoshimoto....... $20.00
Mr. Kaz Yoshimoto........................ $20.00
Mrs. Ruby Yukawa......................... $20.00
DONATIONS for MINISTER’S ASSISTANTS’ FUND:
Mr. & Mrs. Tatsumi Arakawa
Mr. Patrick Chiamori
Mrs. Flora Doi
Ms. Gail Hachiya
Mr. & Mrs. Donald Ikemiya
Dr. & Mrs. Dennis Ikuta
Mrs. Natsuko Kimura
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Koga
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Kozuki
Mr. & Mrs. Tad Kozuki
Mr. & Mrs. Tim Kozuki
Mr. & Mrs. Wes Kubo
Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Miyakawa
Mr. & Mrs. Fred Nagare
Mrs. Toshi Nakamichi
Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Shimizu
Mrs. May Takata
Mrs. Teruko Tsuji
Mrs. Ruby Yukawa
..
.
.
.
.
.
3
THOUGHTS FROM THE SANGHA
By Yuki Mori, MA and Board Member
My Childhood Recollection of Obon
My life in the US is much longer than the life in Japan, but when Obon season approaches I become
nostalgic about how I remember it. In my home town there is an old tradition of going to ohakamairi after
dark. Pitch dark cemetery scene at night with lights of the fireworks and lanterns appeared as if huge fireflies
were dancing around. Around the 13th of August we offered manju and flowers on the family obutsudan,
hung lanterns at the entrance of the house to welcome the guests from the West. Then on the 15th, guests
were placed on a boat made of rice straws to return them to the other shore. To prevent hunger on their way
back, delicious bento and goodies filled the boat to sail back to the other shore, called Shoro Nagashi. This
was the main event of Obon. Traditionally, 13th is called the day of Opening the Lid of Hell, and is also said
to be the most dangerous day to fall into hell, so people were extra careful and avoided swimming or fishing
activities. My town had Jodo Shinshu temple as well as Zen temple. Twice a year at Zen temple (Hanamatsuri
and Obon) a huge scroll depicting what life is like in hell was displayed. Just to see the depiction of hell I
visited the Zen temple twice a year.
After crossing the Sanzu River, depending on what is reflected in the Mirror of Ennma Daio (Ruler of
hell), one may be thrown into a boiling blood pond, or climb a mountain of needles, or a liar’s tongue is pulled
out by aka oni (red demon), a thief buried up to the neck in the ground and beaten on the head with an iron
bar by ao oni (blue demon), one carried by a chariot of fire, while ao oni pry open its mouth while another
demon pours melted copper down its throat, etc. It was so terrifying that I covered my face with both hands,
peeking between my fingers from time to time to get a glimpse as my mother described the depiction. Even
to this day I shudder when I visualize the eyes of Enmma Daio. Along the upper scroll was an illustration
of Lotus flowers of the Pureland. If one did good deeds one is rewarded by being able to sit on the Lotus
flower, but if bad deeds were committed, one is tortured by the demons. Whether I go to Jodo, or fall into hell
is all up to how I live my life, is what my mother taught me. Perhaps this was her way to keep me in line, and
conduct myself properly.
Understanding his true nature Shinran wrote this famous phrase, “Hell is my only abode”. However, in the
modern time, most people seem to have the understanding that once this life is over, all goes to the Pureland.
No one seems to think hell is a possibility. Pureland or hell is a concern of each individual’s kokoro (heart/
mind). I’ve heard when a human dies soul leaves the body or one goes through a dark tunnel towards the light
and have wondered if indeed we are born in different places. Pureland is the land of the Buddha. To be born
in the Pureland must mean one becomes a Buddha. If we were to peer into our kokoro we find that there is
a seed to become a Buddha, but we also possess innumerable seeds of the Three Poisons, the seeds to hell.
Since it is impossible to save ourselves through self-power (jiriki), Amida Buddha exists, constantly calling
us through the form of Namu Amida Butsu, the Buddha centered power to waken us. He named it the Primal
Vow. This is what Shinran discovered and led us to this path.
Core teaching of the Jodo Shinshu is to receive shinjin, appreciate the nembutsu, become a Buddha, and
return to the world of samsara to lead other unenlightened beings to shinjin.
Purpose of learning Buddhism, going to the temple is strictly to eventually become a Buddha. But in Jodo
Shinshu, to become a Buddha shinjin is necessary, shinjin is born due to Nembutsu. Shinran quoted, “there
is no shinjin without nembutsu and there’s no nembutus without shinjin.” He emphatically emphasized the
importance of shinjin and nembutsu, but he never said even once one has to believe it. He however said, if
you trust in what I teach, then recite the nembutstu and receive shinjin first, then we can talk about it.
Obon season provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our lives and determine what is truly important. It
is all up to us. Namu Amida Butsu…………………….
4
MONTHLY BOARD MEETING JUNE 9, 2014
By Kaye Kozuki, Church Secretary
talk, Cheryl will do the children’s activity, Nona,
Donna, & Joanne are in charge of refreshments,
Curtis will led the adult discussion, Matsuko will
set up the onaijin, and the young students will be in
charge of the service.
4. Publication – Everything is running smoothly.
5. Finances – Everything is looking good. There
will be a report in the next newsletter.
6. V&P – A bus trip to the Jodo Shinshu
Center in Berkeley and a visit to the San Jose
Japanese Museum will be on Aug. 16. The cost is
$55. See ad in this newsletter for more details. Rev.
Harada will be speaking in Parlier on July 7 @
7p. Hopefully, our member will make a special
effort to attend. This will be the last year Rev.
Harada will be coming to our area to speak on
a regular basis. Check the Buddhist Education
Program sheet in last month’s newsletter for more
details.
Toshie made a motion to accept the committee
reports. Calvin seconded. Motion passed.
Old Business:
1. Review of last month’s services: Problems
with the microphone in the Hondo. Steve will
look into it.
2. Property Sale is an on going project.
New Business:
1. Toshie volunteered to send the Hatsubon letter.
2. The meeting with the other temples to share
a minister when and if one becomes available is
going slowly.
3. The Share through Savemart will begin in
Aug. Each member of our church would be
given a card that they would swipe when
purchasing groceries at Savemart. Parlier Church
would get a percentage of each swipe from their
members.
Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by James
and seconded by Tad. Joyce led the Gassho.
Next Board meeting is on July 14.
The Parlier Buddhist Church Board meeting was
called to order by Dennis Ikuta on June 9, 2014.
Those in attendance were; Curtis & Cheryl
Koga, Glenn Yoshimoto, Tad Kozuki, , Steve &
Joyce Sasai, Calvin Doi, James Goishi, Toshie
& Yuki Mori, Kelvin Miyakawa, and Kaye
Kozuki. A quorum was established. Joyce S. led
us in gassho.
Minutes were read and after corrections were
made, a motion to accept the minutes was made
by Curtis and seconded by Yuki. Motion carried.
After reviewing the treasurer’s report for monthly income and expenses, Tad made a motion to
accept this report, Steve seconded, motion carried.
Committee Reports:
1. Maintenance – James reported the AC units
are getting worn out and not working up to par. A
motion was made by Calvin to have James and
Curtis look into purchasing one new unit this
summer. Cheryl seconded, motion passed. James
and Curtis repaired the loose tiles on the ceilings.
James thanked Curtis for spraying and weeding
the parking lot across the street.
2. BWA – Joyce reported close to 100 bouquets
were made and distributed at the cemetery for
Memorial Day by a crew of ladies led by Toshie
& Yuki M. Visitation was made to Irene T.
Kozuki by Toshie, Yuki & Cheryl. The church
was cleaned for June by Group 1 headed by Fusa
Ishimaru. FBWA Conference slated for Oct.
10-12, 2014 will be held in Irvine. Members are
asked to contact Cheryl if interested in going.
South District led by Miyo O. & Carol G. was
in charge of refreshments for the June Memorial Service. Obon luncheon on July 13 will be a
salad and sushi bar potluck. Yummy!! A head
count will be taken. Thank you Carol G. for
the fruit pies & ice cream enjoyed by the Board
members at the June meeting.
3. The topic of the Sangha Gathering for the
month of July will be Interdependence. It will be
held on July 6 @ 10a. Curtis will give the 10 min.
5
BUDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION
By Julie Doi, BWA Newsletter Writer
July is the month of Obons. It is a time for the
reunion of families. The thoughts that come to us
are the memories of those who are no longer with
us physically. We appreciate what they have done
for us and their memories become precious all the
more. Obon is sometimes called Kanji E, the Day
of Joy. It is joyous because we begin to realize the
great compassion of the Buddha.
This month our cleanup will be Group Two headed
by Denise Kusunoki. Denise broke her wrist this last
month so be nice to her and come out and help clean.
Rev. Willliam Masuda will be the guest speaker
for the Q & A and for the Obon Service on July
13. A luncheon follows the service and will be a
salad and sushi bar potluck headed by Cheryl and
Curtis. Joyce Sasai is bring the refreshments for
the board meeting in July. We also have our annual
food sale for the Obon Dance (see schedule for
your shift assignments.) It takes many members to
come together and help with the preparation and sale
of the bentos. Calvin Doi will be the MC for the
dance portion. There is one more Obon practice this
month on July 2nd. Thank you Lesley and Lindsay
for again helping with the dance practices.
Yuki will also do a session on breathing exercises
as part of Thursday morning Taiko. See below his
Health Corner on this page.
The Dharma Gatherings have been well
received. The participation from the children has
been very good and the new members have been
trying alot of new recipes and enjoy cooking for the
group. The format of the talks have been short and
very well planned out so that the theme of the lesson
is carried out through the entire session including
the meal.
Toshie and Yuki have been busy studying and
preparing for their trip to Japan, as well as running
the church by: serving on the board, helping take
care of the Thursday activities, cooking, attending
the many meetings, chairing the services, making the
programs for the services, writing for the newsletter,
speaking for the Buddhist Broadcast, etc. We are
very fortunate to have all the Minister Assistants
that also wear many hats at our church. Thank you
all that have been contributing to the Minister’s
Assistants’ Fund. It is setup not just for the MA’s we
have now but for any church member interested in
attending the classes here and in Berkeley.
The V&P Committee is sponsoring a bus trip
to the Jodo Shinshu Center in Berkeley and we
are also visiting the San Jose Japanese Museum
on August 16th. As you can see we have a lot of
activities going on.
Sign up with Cheryl if you would like to attend
the FBWA Conference in Irvine on Oct. 1012, There are 9 dynamic speakers from a variety
of different Buddhist sects so it should be a very
interesting and thought provoking experience. We
will be carpooling so if you need a ride let us know.
See our Obon flyer attached in this issue. Janet
Wong Sing designed it. Not only is she a valuable
asset to our church as a leader but her graphic skills
are excellent too!
HEALTH CORNER
ABOUT SNORING:
Snoring is a very common condition, especially for the middle aged men. Percentage of occurrences are
in the double digits.
It is common in people who are/have:
1) Obese or overweight 2) Small/narrow jaws 3) Enlarged tonsils
Snoring is caused when the wind pipe narrows, especially when sleeping on their back. As one tries
to bring in more air it causes constricted muscles to vibrate. Degree of snoring varies according to the
body weight. Of those who snore, there are some who stop breathing for 10 seconds or more. Within the
hour they may experience this five times or more causing one to be tired and sleepy during the day. It is
called Sleep Apnea. This may cause hypertension and cardiovascular diseases (narrowing of the veins
and arteries) and other physical problems. Depending on the severity of snoring it is necessary to consult
a physician.
Information provided by Dr. Nobuoki Mori
6
MONTHLY MEMORIAL SERVICE
The JULY Shotsuki Service will be on Sunday, JULY 13, 2014.
Families, as well as all members and friends are encouraged to attend.
JULY SHOTSUKI
DECEASED
MOURNER
Mr. Juichi Yamamoto
61 yrs
Mrs. Kikuye Hirakawa
Mrs. Rurie Suehiro
56 yrs
Mrs. Matsuko Suehiro
Mrs. Shige Takano
48 yrs
Mrs. Betty Sumiko Doi
40 yrs
Ms. Eleanor Doi
Mrs. Atsuko Saiki
39 yrs
Mrs. Toshie Mori
Mrs. Jean Kubo
35 yrs
Mr. George Kubo
Mr. Jitsuo Nishida
32 yrs
Mr. Paulie Nishida
Mr. Hisata Hachiya
26 yrs
Mrs. Miyoko Ohara
Mr. Hiroshi Sakai
25 yrs
Mr. Tom Sakai
Mrs. Fujiko Yoshida
27 yrs
Mr. Seisuke Miyakawa
65 yrs
Mr. Kelvin Miyakawa
Mrs. Sekino Yamada
23 yrs
Mr. Minoru Yamada
Mr. Nobuo Ebisuba
17 yrs
Mrs. Sumiko Ebisuda
Mr. Zenjiro Yamashita
Mrs. Naomi Tamura
Mrs. Hatsuno Yamashita
Mrs. Naomi Tamura
Mrs. Kikuye Hirakawa
9 yrs
Mrs. Masayo Yano 8 yrs
Mr. Robert Yano
The August Shotsuki Service will be on Sunday, AUGUST 17, 2014.
Families, as well as all members and friends are encouraged to attend.
AUGUST SHOTSUKI
DECEASED
MOURNER
Mr. Fukumatsu Kobashi
59 yrs
Mr. Kiyomi Kobashi
Mr. John T. Goishi
52 yrs
Mr. James Goishi
Mrs. Maki Miyakawa
73 yrs
Mr. Kelvin Miyakawa
Mrs. Sasayo Okada
49 yrs
Mr. George Okada
Mr. Sahei Sakai
48 yrs
Mrs. Toshiye Yoshii Do not sent notice
Mr. Fukutaro Takata
31 yrs
Mr. Fred Takata
Mr. Jack S. Ikuta
32 yrs
Dr. Dennis Ikuta
Mr. Noboru Doi
24 yrs
Ms. Eleanor Doi
Mr. David Doi
Mr. Toshiyuki Yoshida
73 yrs
Mr. Asato Yamamoto
74 yrs
Mrs. Kikuye Hirakawa
Ms. Fusaye Takano
77 yrs
Miss Tami J. Kozuki
75 yrs
Mrs. Irene T. Kozuki
Mrs. Lillian Ogami
18 yrs
Mr. Fred Nagage
Mr. Sumio Takata - 8/6/08
7 yrs
Mrs Janet Takata
Masumi Mary Nagatomi
5 yrs
Mr. Edward Kurokawa
4 yrs
Arlene Kurokawa
2014 is the Memorial year for those deceased in
2013............... One year Memorial
1998......... 17th year Memorial
2012.................3rd year Memorial
1990......... 25th year Memorial
2008................. 7th year Memorial
1982.........33rd year Memorial
2002............... 13th year Memorial
1965......... 50th year Memorial
1915....... 100th year Memorial
...................................................
7
精霊流し
私は日本での生活よりもアメリカの生活がはるかに長いのに　お盆がちかずくと矢張り故郷で過ごし
たお盆行事のおもいでがうかんできます。長崎のお盆は夜暗くなってから墓参りするしきたりがあり
夜の墓場は花火とちょうちんで大きなホタルがとびまわってるような風景でした。
１３日には花やお菓子を仏壇に供え　玄関にはちょうちんを灯して西の国からのお客を迎え１５日の
夜にはむぎわらを束ねて作った舟に西の国からのお客をのせて　帰る途中でおなかがすかないように
たくさんのごちそうをもたして彼岸におくる精霊流しをするのがお盆のメインイベントでした。
８月１３日は“地獄のかまあけの日”とよばれて一年中で一番地獄え落ちやすい時と言われて
お盆の三日間は海で泳ぐ人も魚釣りする人もいないぐらいおそれられてました。故郷には浄土真宗の
お寺と禅宗のお寺がありましたが　禅宗のお寺は花祭りとお盆と年二回　寺の本堂に地獄の様子を描
いた大きなかけじくを展示してあり　私も地獄の見物のため年二回禅宗の寺に参りました。三途の川
をわたり閻魔大王の鏡にうつされた罪次第で血の池地獄へ入れられたり、針の山を
登らせられたり、嘘ついて赤鬼から舌をぬかれてる姿、ぬすみ事をして首まで土にうめられ頭を
青鬼から鉄の棒でなぐられてる姿、火の車で運ばれてきてドロドロに溶けた銅の汁をのまされたり　こわいものばかりで私はみてみないふりするように両手で顔をかばいながら母から地獄の
説明をしてもらいました。今でも閻魔大王の顔つきをおもいだしただけでも一瞬身ぶるいがします。
地獄の絵の上のほうには　蓮の花が咲いてる浄土も絵描かれてあり　善いことをすれば蓮の花に坐れ
るが悪いことをすれば赤鬼、青鬼から苦しめられるとの母の説明に　浄土に参れるのも
地獄へ落とされるのも私の生き方次第である自業自得の意味をあの時教わったとものとおもって
ます。
“地獄は一定すみかぞかし“と私は地獄しか行く場所がないと親鸞聖人がもうされた言葉がよく知ら
れてますが　今の世の中では”死んだら仏と言われるぐらいに誰でも極楽浄土の考えをもってますが
地獄に落ちていくと考える人はどこにもありません。浄土も地獄も私たちがもつ心の問題とおもいま
すが人間が死ぬと魂が体からぬけだしていくとか　暗いトンネルをくぐって光のほうにむかっていく
と聞いたこともありますが私たちはどこに生まれていくのでしょうか？
極楽浄土とは仏の国ですから浄土に参ることは仏になることであります。私たちの心をのぞきますと
仏になる種ももってますが三毒の煩悩と言われる地獄に落ちていく種ももっているわけであります。
このままでは自力では救われないとみぬいた阿弥陀仏はどうにか私たちを幸せにさせようと仏の世界
から迷いの世界に“南無阿弥陀仏”の呼び声になって働きかけて人間を仏の国へ生まれさせようとし
てくれてる仏の力があることを発見したのが親鸞聖人です。他力本願ともうされましたが浄土真宗は
阿弥陀仏の本願により信心にめぐまれ念仏を味わい　いずれは仏になって
再び迷いの世界にもどってきて人々を信心に合わそうと働きかける教えであり自分だけ助かって仏に
なるものではありません。
お寺に参ったり、仏教を勉強するのは　いずれは仏にならしてもらうためのはずですが浄土真宗では
仏にならせてもらうには信心が肝要であり　信心は念仏から生じると考えます。親鸞聖人は“念仏を
伴わない信心はありません　信心を伴わない念仏もありません”と念仏と信心を強調してくれてます
が　決して強制的に浄土真宗をすすめてるのではなく　“もしあなたが私の教えに賛成ならば　まず
念仏して信心をいただいてください。それから教えを語りましょう”と信じるも信じないのもこちら
次第であるような言い方をしてます。
浄土真宗の求道は　まずどんな宗教なのかはっきりわかってから始めないと　長年お寺参りしても　たくさん勉強しても仏にちかずけるものは何もでてこないこともありえます。このことを
よく考えてみてください。
南無阿弥陀仏
8
8
Reedley Buddhist
Church
Saturday, July 26, 2014
5:00 PM – Obon Festival – Food
8:00 PM – Bon Odori (dancing)
Dinner Includes: Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, Chicken Salad,
Beefstick, & Watermelon
Other foods available: Beefsticks, somen,
desserts, snowcones, mochi ice cream
Hatsubon & Obon Service
Sunday, July 27, 2014
10:00 AM
Doors Open at 2:00pm
Photo credit: Dennis A. Amith
Enjoy a variety of Asian-flair food ,
Desserts & Beverages throughout the day!
4:00pm
Taiko Drums, Carnival Games & Bake Walks
Obon dancing is easy, no experience
required and FUN for all ages!
7:30pm
Personalized Memorial Lanterns,
OBON Dance, Taiko Drums and $2500 Raffle!
Want to practice with us? Join us!
June 18 & 26, July 1, 7 & 9
7:00pm
Fresno Buddhist Dharma Center
GREAT ATMOSPHERE! FREE PARKING!
EVERYONE WELCOME!
Information: (559)442-4054 or [email protected]
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES
SAVE THIS DATE !!!
HELENA CHUI, M.D.
USC, Department Chair, Department of Neurology
August 23, 2014
Fresno Dharma Center
9:30 a.m.
Brain
+
Research
=
Memories
“Thanks For The Memories”
The process of losing memory is difficult for all involved!!! Memories are one of the most
important gifts we can leave for the next generations.
It was March 1998: Helena Chui, M.D and Kathy Martelli, USC Research Project Coordinator
began the open discussion of memory loss in the Japanese American community in Central
California. Much has been learned since that initial seminar. Individuals participated in
research. Some individuals are still living and others have passed but all want(ed) to make
sure that following generations would learn from their research participation.
Come listen and find out what has been learned, what you can do today for good brain health
and what is still needed in the future. Dr. Chui and Kathy thank all who have taken their time
to help others have better brain health.
For more information please call Donna Ishii (559)285-4874 or Betsuin (559)442-4054
REV. DR. KEN TANAKA
CENTRAL CALIFORNIA VISIT
CCYBA/WYBL REUNION
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2014
2:00 PM
FOWLER BUDDHIST CHURCH
DHARMA TALKS
“JODO SHINSHU BUDDHISM FOR 21
CENTURY AMERICANS”
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2014
9:30 AM
REEDLEY BUDDHIST CHURCH
Sponsored by the Fowler & Reedley Buddhist Churches
CCYBA/WYBL Alumni Committee
Craig-Ron-Ben
[email protected]
UPCOMING SEPTEMBER EVENTS
1
7
8
10
17
20
21
(Mon)
(Sun)
(Mon)
(Wed)
(Wed)
(Sat)
(Sun)
Rev. Harada’s Class......................7:00pm
Sangha Gathering.......................10:00am
Board Meeting.............................7:00pm
Curtis Discussion Group............7:00pm
CCDC Meeting in Fowler...........7:00pm
Q & A with HarryBridge............4:00pm
Fall Ohigan with Harry Bridge.10:00am
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S POSTAGE
PARLIER, CA 93648
PERMIT #23
JULY
English
Japanese
AUGUST
English
Japanese
5
12 19
26
2
9
16
23
30
Michael Maruyama
Ron Hata
Toshie Mori George Teraoka Rev. Alan Sakamoto
Keith Putirka
Garrett Sano Craig Honda Calvin Doi
Midori Nakakawa Midori Nakakawa
Yuki Mori
Yuki Mori
Rev. Nakakawa Rev. Nakakawa
Midori Nakakawa Midori Nakakawa
Yuki Mori
盂蘭盆会法要（歓喜会）
OBON SERVICE and
MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR JULY
Sunday, July 13, 2014 at 10:00 A.M.
Guest Speaker: Rev. William Masuda
Luncheon to follow
BUDDHIST CHURCH OF PARLIER
P.O. Box 547
Parlier, CA 93648
Minister
Rinban Kakei Nakagawa..442-4054
Rev. Alan Sakamoto...... 442-4054
Church President
Dennis Ikuta.................. 638-4962
Vice-President
Toshie Mori.................... 638-8614
Secretary
Wes Kubo....................... 638-6758
Treasurer
Glenn Yoshimoto............897-1811
Maintenance
James Goishi.................. 638-5510
Fujinkai Presidents Joyce Sasai..................... 897-7236
Cheryl Koga.................. 638-4669
Newletter Editors
Curtis Koga................... 638-4669
Julie Doi......................... 896-6354
Karen Shimizu.............. 896-0795
Webmaster
Glenn Nakamichi.......... 896-5240
www.bcparlier.org
JULY BUDDHIST RADIO BROADCAST KFIB
(AM900) SATURDAY 7:20AM
Address Service Requested
DIRECTORY OF OFFICIERS
JULY
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1
Fowler
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Calligraphy
5:00pm
6
7
CBE sponsored
Rev. Harada’s
Sangha
Gathering
10:00am
Lecture Class
in Parlier
7:00pm
13
Obon ServiceHatsubon &
and Shotsuki
Service w/
Rev. Masuda
10:00am
20
14
Parlier
Board Meeting
7:00pm
21
Parlier
Obon
4:30pm
27
28
8
Fowler
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Calligraphy
5:00pm
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
2
Parlier Class 3
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
4
5
9
Parlier Class 10
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
11
Cleanup
12
Group 2
8:00am
Q & A w/ Rev.
Masuda 2:30pm
Parlier Class 17
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
18
Parlier Class 24
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
25
Parlier Obon
Practice
7:00pm
Curtis
Discussion Class
7:00pm
Fowler 15
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Calligraphy
5:00pm
16
Fowler 22
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Calligraphy
5:00pm
23
29
30
Fresno Obon
2:00pm
19
Fowler
Obon
26
Reedley Obon
5:00pm
DONATIONS FOR THE
BUDDHIST RADIO BROADCAST
EACH BROADCAST IS $50.00
If you wish to donate contact Lee Osaki
442-4054 at the Fresno Buddhist Church.
TAKE REFUGE IN THE LIGHT OF JOY
Sunday
AUGUST
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
DONATIONS FOR THE
BUDDHIST RADIO BROADCAST
EACH BROADCAST IS $50.00
Friday
Saturday
1
2
If you wish to donate contact Lee Osaki
442-4054 at the Fresno Buddhist Church
3
4
CBE Lecture
at Fowler BC
Greg Mukai
7:00pm
Sangha
Gathering
10:00am
10
11
Parlier
Board Meeting
7:00pm
Parlier Class 7
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
8
9
13
Fowler 12
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Curtis
Calligraphy
Discussion Class
5:00pm
7:00pm
Parlier Class 14
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am8:30am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
15
Church
16
Cleanup
Group 3
8:00am
V & P Bus Trip
to JSC & San
Jose Museum
7:30am
17
18
Fowler 19
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Calligraphy
5:00pm
20
Parlier Class 21
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am8:30am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
22
24
25
Fowler 25
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Calligraphy
5:00pm
27
Parlier Class 28
Taichi
(Parlier Park}
8:00am8:30am
Welcome Center
9:15am11:30am
29
Shotsuki
Service w/
Rev. Alan
10:00am
31
6
5
Fowler
Classes:
Dharma Class:
1:00pm
Sumi: 3:00pm
Calligraphy
5:00pm
TAKE REFUGE IN THE LIGHT OF JOY
23
30

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