A religion labeled anti-American, its leaders arrested, buildings shot at and burned, followers viewed with suspicion. The target? Not Islam, but Buddhism. Continue reading “American Sutra”
Meaning of Eitaikyo
“Eitaikyo” is a tradition that started in Japan’s Edo Period, hundreds of years ago. Literally it means “perpetually chanting Buddhist sutras” and it has become an annual service at our temples. They are held in January or February, depending on the temple.
Our lives are created by many causes and conditions, such as our environment, education, nature and society. Probably the most meaningful connection we have is to our family and friends, especially those people who have lived before us, such as our parents, grandparents and others. Without them, we would not exist.
Amida and the Statue of Liberty
By Rev. Peter Hata
Currently, in response to the ongoing crisis surrounding the issue of immigration, there’s a certain poetic passage that is frequently quoted: “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free…” Continue reading “Amida and the Statue of Liberty”
Buddhism of Obrigada (thank you)
Hisako Mori is a second generation Japanese, or Nikkei, who was born in Brazil. Her parents emigrated from Japan to Brazil after World War II.
As a teenager, she felt a typical adolescent rebelliousness towards her mother. Then she met a Jodo Shinshu minister and began looking within herself, rather than outside herself.
Continue reading “Buddhism of Obrigada (thank you)”
A Volcano and Power beyond Self
By Rev. Marcos Sawada
In Hawaii at the Halemaumau crater, lava is flowing and there are explosions and lots of earthquakes. Every one of these occurrences is a manifestation of Mother Nature. Are they good or bad? Is reality good or bad? Continue reading “A Volcano and Power beyond Self”
A Great Earthquake and 14 Students
By Dr. Yasushi Kigoshi
The greatest earthquake on record struck a peaceful town in Eastern Japan. The disaster, known as the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake, changed the residents’ lives forever. About 800 people in the town lost their lives or were missing due to the tsunami that followed the quake on March 11, 2011. Continue reading “A Great Earthquake and 14 Students”