FRIEND OF THE DHARMA
WAILUKU HONGWANJI MISSION
1828 VINEYARD STREET, WAILUKU, HI 96793
TELEPHONE: (808) 244-0406 – 244-9647
Website: www.wailukuhongwanji.org
VOL. LII, No. 2
Email: [email protected]
February 2015
“Scout Sunday” to be observed on
February 1
Omuro and Tanaka presented with the
2014 Dana Award
EMBERS OF TROOP 40 BOY Scouts
and Pack 40 Cub Scouts will observe
“Scout Sunday,” at the Wailuku
Hongwanji temple on Sunday, February 1, with
the tolling of the bell at 8:00 a.m.
Scoutmaster Randall Endo and Cubmaster Keith Regan stated
that the Scouts and Cubs annually commemorate Scout Sunday
on the first Sunday in February. This event commemorates the
founding of the Boy Scouts of America via a National Charter from
Congress on February 8, 1910. Scout Sunday is celebrated by
thousands of Scouts each year at churches throughout the United
States.
Scouting supports the spiritual view of life that underlies the
teaching of all denominations and faiths. Scoutmaster Endo and
Cubmaster Regan would like to invite parents, grandparents, and
friends to take part in the service. They invite everyone to enjoy
the brunch that will be served after the service.
AE OMURO AND HELEN TANAKA WERE presented with the 2014 Tadaichi Fukunaga Dana Award at
the annual Sokai and Shinnenkai on January 17.
The award was presented by Dana Award chairman George
Okamoto and Reverend Shinkai Murakami.
Mae Omuro was recognized for her active practice of dana as
shown in her many positive contributions to the temple and community. She is a kind and generous person who can be counted
on to help whenever and wherever help is needed. In addition to
her many contributions to the temple and the Buddhist Women’s
Association, Mae is very active in 4-H, Maui Arts & Cultural Center
and the Iao School Renaissance Project.
Helen Tanaka was recognized for her selfless dedication and
participation in various temple and community activities. After a
fulfilling nursing career, Helen continued her community service by
volunteering with the Hospital Auxiliary, the Hotel Industry’s Charity Walks, and the Japanese Cultural Society. Helen generously
volunteers her time to BWA activities such as the Maui County
Fair and Maui Matsuri Chow Fun projects. She is also a temple
choir member and has attended several Hawaii Choir Fests.
M
Nirvana Day Service set for Sunday,
February 8

AILUKU HONGWANJI WILL COMMEMORATE
Nirvana Day on Sunday, February 8. The service
begins at 8:00 a.m. Nirvana Day, the day on
which the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, is said to have
died and reached total Nirvana, at the age of 80, is commemorated on February 15th. Nirvana Day is the celebration
of Buddha's death.
As Jodo Shinshu followers, greater emphasis is placed
on the death of our founder Shinran Shonin (January 16), by
holding a special service call Hoon-ko. Because emphasis is
placed on Hoon-ko, members overlook the death of
Shakyamuni Buddha, without whom there would not be a
Jodo Shinshu sect.

Mae Omuro and Helen Tanaka were the recipients of the 2014 Tadaichi Fukunaga Dana Award presented by Reverend Murakami and
Dana Committee Chair George Okamoto.
Members to attend Giseikai
S
IX MEMBERS WILL BE ATTENDING THE 2015 LEGISLATIVE Assembly (Giseikai) on February 13-14 at
the Honpa Hongwanji Betsuin. Participants are Michael Munekiyo, Charles Hirata, Joan Tamori, Ed Tamori,
Stanley Okamoto, and Reverend Shinkai Murakami.
The annual assembly will end with the Living Treasures
of Hawaii Awards Luncheon on Saturday, February 14. For
the past 38 years, Honpa Hongwanji Mission has honored
special people in Hawaii, naming them “Living Treasures.”
For the names of the recipients and their accomplishments,
see page 13.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-1-
A message from Reverend Shinkai Murakami
Resident Minister – Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
Spring Special Eitaikyo Service
Namo Amida Butsu
As you may know, Wailuku Hongwanji observes six major services per year. Do you know
the names of the major services?
We have Hoon-ko (Shinran Shonin's Memorial
Service) in January, the Spring Ohigan (Spring
Equinox) Service in March, Gotan-e (Shinran
Shonin's Birthday) Service in May, Obon (Gathering of Joy) Service in August, Fall Ohigan (Fall
Equinox) Service in September, and Eitaikyo
(Perpetual Memorial) Service in November.
Besides these services, we also observe
"Hanamatsuri — Buddha's Birthday Service and
Spring Eitaikyo Service." Did you know that
Wailuku Hongwanji Mission in the only temple
throughout the State of Hawaii that observe the
Spring Eitaikyo Service?
I think this special phrase "Spring Special
Eitaikyo Service" is a very unique phrase and
we, the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission is observing
this service on the third Saturday of every February. I don't know when this service was organized, by who, and what the reason why our
Wailuku Hongwanji Mission is having this service in February.
However, through this special service, we are
able to listen to the Dharma through the memory
of our deceased. I firmly believe that through our
deceased one's great memory we will receive
the opportunity to come to the temple and meet
with the great blessing of the Dharma in our
lives. You are able to see the scroll on the wall.
Many families donated special contributions to
the temple and wish all people to continue to receive the Dharma in their lives.
Rennyo Shonin (our 8th Abbott of the
Hongwanji) said in a Letter called "Goichidai
Kikigaki" and it says, "Even if we are busy, we
must listen to the Buddha Dharma as our true spiritual guide, however, we are all feeling that if we
have time, then we should listen to the dharma.
However, this concept is somewhat incorrect.
According the Dharma, we are not able to see or
predict our future, regardless of age, we should
not think that we have tomorrow. We must make a
time to listen to the Dharma right now." I firmly believe this statement is really true. On the White
Ashes, it says that "Though in the morning we
may have radiant health, in the evening we may
return to the White Ashes. When the winds of impermanence blow, our eyes closed forever,
and…." Life is very fragile it is not guaranteed!
This spring special Eitaikyo service is reminding each one of us that participating in the temple
services is one of the most wonderful opportunity
for us to listen to the great guidance of the Buddha Dharma, the path of the truth through the
memories of our loved ones.
The more we listen to the Dharma, through the
great guidance of Amida Buddha we may realize
that how ignorant and foolish beings we are,
however, we may able to correct ourselves and
be able to become the person who are always
thinking of other people first instead of thinking of
themselves first. Yes, all Jodo Shinshu's ways of
the services are great opportunities for us to meet
the Buddha Dharma and be able to listen to the
true heart of Amida Buddha's great wisdom and
compassion in our precious lives.
Namo Amida Butsu
Buddha’s Quotes
“If your compassion does not include yourself, it is
incomplete.”
“Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship.”
“It is a man's own mind, not his enemy or foe, that
lures him to evil.”
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 .........................................................................Ms. Florence Tanaka
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-2-
Graduates’ Banquet to be held on
April 19
T
HE WAILUKU HONGWANJI MISSION 2015
Graduates' Banquet will be held at the Kahili Restaurant on April 19, 2015. In contrast to previous
graduates' banquets, which were held in the evening, this
year's banquet will be a Sunday brunch that will begin at
10:00 a.m. shortly after the conclusion of our temple's
Sunday Service.
The banquet will commence with a brief baccalaureate
service conducted by the Reverend Shinkai Murakami.
Keynote speaker will be Heather Hirata, a registered nurse
at the Maui Memorial Medical Center.
Each graduate will be sponsored by a mission member,
however, others wishing to attend are being assessed a cost
of $30 per person. Please call Sandy Matsuda (242-1997) or
Joyce Hashimoto (244-0406) before March 24, 2015 if you
are interested in attending this event.
Mission members are not only encouraged to attend this
event, but are also being asked to sponsor a graduate or
make a monetary donation to help defray related costs. Anyone wishing to become a sponsor or to make a donation is
asked to call Sandy Matsuda.
As of this writing the following graduating seniors with ties
to the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission have been identified and
will be extended invitations to the banquet.
Nicole Davis .................................................. Linden Kanamu
Erin Kobayashi ................................................ Miki Matsuoka
Erin Murashige ................................................. Kenley Nakao
Corin Nishimoto..................................................Rip Pahukoa
Kaylee Shimizu...............................................Donovan Webb
Brennan Wells..............................................Layke Yamauchi
Crystal Yokouchi
If anyone knows of a student who has been inadvertently omitted from the above list, please contact Sandy Matsuda.
Please note that a student's family need not be mission
members or even of the same religion to attend the banquet.
The main purpose of this event is to extend congratulations
and best wishes to graduating seniors, who through their
membership or their participation in temple sponsored activities, have been a part of the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
family.
Special Eitaikyo Service to be held on
Saturday, February 21

SPECIAL EITAIKYO SERVICE WILL BE HELD ON
Saturday, February 21, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Reverend Shinkai Murakami invites all members to attend.
This Special Eitaikyo Service is held for all departed
members of the temple, especially individuals who have
been placed in our temple’s Eitaikyo Register.
This service gives us the opportunity to quietly meditate
or reflect upon the cherished memories of the deceased and
remind us of the impermanency of life. This helps us realize
our own changing existence. As we recall the countless
benefits bestowed upon us by the deceased, there arises
within us a feeling of gratitude toward the deceased and others for making life possible for us.
The word Eitaikyo actually means "perpetual sutra." Eitai means "perpetual" and kyo means "sutra," or "teaching of
Buddha." The term "Eitaikyo" is defined as a "perpetual
memorial service."
The Eitaikyo Service was started because members
wished that the Buddha’s teachings would continue to their
descendants from generation to generation, and they established the Eitaikyo Fund for the maintaining of their Sangha
or temple. The Eitaikyo fund is a separate fund from the
temple's other funds, set aside for use by the temple in special circumstances or emergencies. It is a fund that is not to
be used for the general upkeep and day-to-day expenses of
the temple. As of November 2014, the Eitaikyo Fund has a
balance of $241,975.99.
Project Dana to prepare bento on
February 28
P
ROJECT DANA WILL BE PREPARING bento lunches
for distribution to the homebound, the elderly seniors,
and handicapped individuals on Saturday, February
28. Lunches will be delivered to homes or may be picked up
at the Wailuku Hongwanji kitchen at 11:00 a.m.
Call the temple office at 244-0406 if you wish to receive
a bento. Because an elderly, homebound, or handicapped
individual may be hesitant to call or may not know about this
project, we ask that family members or friend call. Deadline
to sign up for the bento is Friday, February 20.
College Prep workshop to be held on
Sunday, April 19
S
ENIORS, ALONG WITH THEIR PARENTS, ARE INVITED to a College Prep Workshop (part 2) on Sunday, April 19, at the Wailuku Hongwanji Social Hall
(upstairs) Conference Room beginning at 3:00 p.m. The
workshop will be presented by Lloyd Yonemura, a retired
school registrar and counselor, and is geared for seniors, the
Class of 2015.
The workshop will focus on things seniors should do
now, things to prepare for, things to think about, and things
graduates need to know if they plan to go away to college.
Buddha’s Quote
“When words are both true and kind, they
can change our world.”
“He is able who thinks he is able.”
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-3-
Affiliate organizations
Buddhist Women’s News
Janet Kubota, Reporter
BWA to hold Sokai on February 8
T
HE WAILUKU HONGWANJI BUDDHIST WOMEN’S
Association annual General Membership Meeting
(Sokai) will be held on Sunday, February 8, beginning with a temple service at 8 a.m. Mr. Keku Akana from the
outreach ministry of the Episcopal Churches on Maui will
inform members about “A Cup of Cold Water, A Community
Care Van.” Following the service, members will preview the
program for the year.
The following is the schedule for the day:
SCHEDULE FOR BWA SOKAI
8:00 a.m. Temple Service at Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
with Keku Akana as guest speaker
9:00 a.m. BWA meeting in the temple
10:00 a.m. Bus departs for Kahili Golf Course
10:30 a.m. Brunch at Kahili Restaurant
12:15 p.m. Bus returns to Wailuku Hongwanji Mission
Following the meeting at the temple, members will board
the bus to the Kahili Restaurant for a special brunch. The
cost for members is $20, which includes lunch and bus service. The deadline to sign up and pay for the luncheon was
Friday, January 23.
BWA collects 2015 dues

REASURER SANDY MATSUDA
would like to remind BWA members
to pay their annual dues of $20 as
soon as possible. Annual dues for members 85 years and older are $5. Dues for associate members (homebound or in health care facilities) are also $5.
Payment may be made in the temple office or mailed in.
Kubota re-elected BWA president
J
ANET KUBOTA WAS REELECTED as President of
the Wailuku Hongwanji Buddhist Women’s Association for the
biennial year of 2015-2016. Also
serving as officers are Sylvia Ishikawa, Immediate Past President;
Tamara Manley, Vice President;
Mary Tokumaru, Recording Secretary; Nancy Shimoda, Corresponding Secretary; Sandy Matsuda, Treasurer; and Lillian
Satoshige, Assistant Treasurer. Mae Omuro was elected as
Historian. The officers will be installed during the service on
February 8. Reverend Shinkai and Mrs. Minae Murakami
serve as advisors to the organization.
“Sewing Bee” meets on Mondays
A
REMINDER THAT THE
ongoing BWA “Sewing
Bee” meets every Monday
morning at 8:30 a.m. in the social
hall. Members will be ironing, cutting, and sewing fabric which will
be made into walker bags and lap
blankets. These items will be given to patients at care facilities during visitation throughout the year.
Members interested in participating in the sewing group
should bring their own scissors, necessary tools, and sewing
machine if planning to sew.
Also, many ladies have collections of fabric stored away
in drawers and closets that they don’t plan to use. Please
consider donating these fabrics to the “sewing bee”. Mahalo!
Members fold cranes for peace
W
AILUKU HONGWANJI
BWA members have
folded and delivered
over 3,000 cranes in a project
chaired by the Peace Committee
of Honoka’a Hongwanji Buddhist
Temple. The Committee is conducting an ambitious project
and setting a goal of 199,000 origami cranes, which will be
presented to memorial organizations in the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
BWA President Janet Kubota reported that members are
encouraged to fold 3” x 7” square cranes. She reminded
members not to open the cranes after folding it. The cranes
will be collected by the Maui United BWA at the Spring Assembly. Sharon Nohara of the Lahaina Hongwanji BWA has
volunteered to ship the cranes to the Big Island.
World Buddhist Women’s Convention
to be held in Alberta, Canada
T
HE JODO SHINSHU TEMPLES OF CANADA Women’s Federation (JSTCWF) extends a heartfelt invitation to all to join them at the 15th World Buddhist Women’s Convention at the Telus Convention Center in Calgary,
Alberta, Canada on May 30-31, 2015.
Close to 200 Hawaii BWA members and their families
are planning to attend. Attendees are reminded to take your
passport, montoshikisho, onenju and six omiyage gifts (exchanged during dinner banquet). All delegates are encouraged to purchase a purple BWA Polo Shirt and gold-ilima
colored yarn lei as part of Hawaii’s “uniform.” Post convention tours are being offered. More information can be found
at www.hawaiibwa.com.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-4-
Dharma School News
Rakuen Club News
Sandra Hirata, Reporter
Florence Tanaka, Reporter
No Dharma School on Scout Sunday,
February 1
Reece Tanaka to entertain Rakuen
members at February meeting
HARMA SCHOOL STUDENTS ARE REMINDED that there will be no Dharma
School on Scout Sunday, February 1. Students are encouraged to attend the service and
support the activities of the Scouts.
EECE TANAKA, GRANDSON of Helen Tanaka, will
be the featured guest at
the meeting on February 12,
which begins with a service at
8:30 a.m. He will be entertaining
members on his keyboard.
Those who have heard him were
awed by his wonderful skills at the piano. Please
attend and enjoy the special entertainment by Mr.
Tanaka.
Lunch will be from TJ’s Hawaiian plate bento
at a cost of $7.50 per person.
Special thanks to Larry Shishido’s group for
putting on an excellent program to usher in the
year of the Ram!!!
D
Tom Shuster to MC Sunday Service
on February 8

OM SHUSTER WILL BE THE MASTER of
Ceremonies at the Sunday Service on
February 8, beginning at 8 a.m. Ringing
the kansho bell will be Donavan Ikeuchi and
Layce Yamauchi will read the aspiration. Ace
Shuster, Kami Echiverri, and Kristi Echiverri will
do the collection of offerings. Greeters are Takashi Lea, Donna Ikeuchi and Aubrey Unemori.
Ms. Florence Tanaka will be the organist.
Donavan Ikeuchi to MC Sunday Service on February 15
D
ONAVAN IKEUCHI WILL BE THE MASTER of Ceremonies at the Sunday Service on February 15, beginning at 8 a.m.
Ringing the kansho bell will be Anna Fosbinder
and Macie Nakahashi will read the aspiration.
Sophie DeMattos, Donna Ikeuchi, and Kara
Nakahashi will do the collection of offerings.
Greeters are Sam Marie Quipotla, Macie
Nakahashi and Layce Yamauchi. Mr. Dale Sugiki
will be the organist.
Paul Hiranaga to be guest speaker at
Family Service on February 22
P
AUL HIRANAGA WILL BE THE GUEST
speaker at the Family Service set for February 22, beginning at 8 a.m. Layke Yamauchi
will be the Master of Ceremonies. Donna Ikeuchi
will ring the kansho bell and Donavan Ikeuchi will
read the aspiration. Sam Marie Quipotla, Layce
Yamauchi, and Macie Nakahashi will do the collection of offerings. Greeters are Logan Tamori, Anna Fosbinder, and Kami Echiverri. Mr. Dale Sugiki
will be the organist.
Those who

Excursion planned for the month of
March
R
AKUEN MEMBERS will be
taking an excursion to Lahaina
on March 12. Plans
are to tour the Kaanapali Coffee Farm
with a guided bus
tour of the farm and lunch at Star Noodle. Cost
will be $20 for a selected bento lunch and $2 for
the bus ride. Bus departure time will be announced at the meeting in February. Please bring
right change to speed up collection for the lunch
and bus.
Because Star Noodle can only accommodate
50 customers, signup will be limited to the first 50
members who sign up. The restaurant will open
specially for the Rakuen members.
Rakuen members are reminded to pay
their dues
T
REASURER JANET KUBOTA WOULD
LIKE TO remind members to pay their
2015 Rakuen dues of $20 if they have not
paid
it
at
the January meeting. Dues for members
Buddha’s Thoughts
who are over 90 years old is $5. Dues are used to
are free of resentful thoughts
cover administrative and miscellaneous expenses
surely find peace.
of the club.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-5-
Sokai & Shinnenkai
Charles and Sandra Hirata attend WHM Sokai on January 17.
Eric and Cathy, along with their children Donavan and Donna, participated in the 2015 Sokai and Shinnenkai.
Master of Ceremonies for the Sokai George Choi joins Wayne and
Sandy Matsuda who chaired the Shinnenkai on January 17.
Mae and Susumu Taketa were temple members who attended the
Sokai and Shinnenkai on January 17.
Reverend Murakami joins the Omuro Ohana in congratulating Mae Omuro who was awarded the 2014 Tadaichi Fukunaga Dana Award. She was
joined by Robyn Osaki, (Mae Omuro), Kurt Osaki, Layce, Layke, Teruko Fujimoto, Lynn and Lance Yamauchi.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-6-
Sokai & Shinnenkai
Sam, Donna, Louis, Layce, Logan, Kara, Anna, Donnavan, and Macie
get their photo taken after performing a skit at the Shinnenkai.
Lori Munekiyo, Sandy Matsuda, and Wendy Choi were part of the crew
that prepared the food for the Shinnenkai.
Florence Tanaka, Mary Tokumaru, Eric Ikeuchi, Donna, and Donavan
are part of the ukulele group.
Donna and Donavan showed off their musical talent at the Shinnenkai
in the social hall on January 17.
The unsung heroes of the Shinnenkai were Sharon Higa, Molly Imoto,
Gail Kushiyama, and Faith Tengan who were the buffet servers.
Congratulating Tadaichi Fukunaga Dana Award recipient Helen Tanaka were the Tanaka Ohana. Pictured above are Kaipo Williams, Jared, Reverend
Murakami, Gail Tanaka, Reese Tanaka, Craig Tanaka, (Helen Tanaka), Karen Tanaka, Mahea Ricopuerto, Carlee, Devin, Saige, Hoku Gomes, Denise
Tanaka, Chantel, and Kevin Tanaka.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-7-
Temple Activities
Gakuen Cultural Day
BWA member Helen Ohigashi polishes the windows during the annual
general clean up on December 20.
As part of their cultural day experience at the Japanese Language
School, student Karsten, makes and consumes mochi with the assistance of Sensei Kei Yasuma.
BWA member Nancy Shimoda shows her happiness after cleaning the
window panes on the doors at the entrance to the temple.
Reverend Murakami expresses his appreciation to the Buddhist Women’s Association members who are enjoying a brunch after participating in the
General Clean Up on December 21.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-8-
Temple Activities
“A Taste of Hongwanji”
Mary Tokumaru, Reverend Tennes, Reverend Kalu, Eric Ikeuchi, Florence Tanaka, Donna, and Donavan entertain the crowd at the “Taste of
Hongwanji” festival.
Reverend Shinkai Murakami performed the wedding of Burt and Cynthia Sugiki.
Yoshiko Fujiwara, Stella Kuwae, and Sandy Matsuda were part of the
workers who participated in the Mochi Project on December 27.
Taking a break after making mochi are Toshiko Sugiki, Barbara Parr,
Helen Ohigashi, Stella Kuwae, and Burt Sugiki.
Helen Ohigashi, Burt Sugiki, Yoshiko Fujiwara, and Marie Wong, were
part of the mochi making team.
Sylvia Ishikawa, Norma Tamashiro, Helen Ohigashi, and Gerald Kojima
look over the item that they can purchase at the “Taste of Hongwanji.”
Layce, Donna, Macie and Kara sell Jr. YBA goodies at the “Taste of
Hongwanji” at Kahului Hongwanji on January 10.
Sandy Hirata, Mae Omuro, and Mary Tokumaru work at the Wailuku
Hongwanji’s booth at the “Taste of Hongwanji.”
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
-9-
Buddhist Women’s Association Activities
BWA members were installed as 2015-2016 officers of the United BWA
at Kahului Hongwanji Mission.
Joyce Endo, Nariko Nagai, Reverend Murakami, Stephanie Nagai, and
Ian Domingo attended the BWA Memorial Service in memory of Penny
Endo on December 14.
Layne Oishi stands beside the statue of St. Shinran and the plaque that
the Oishi Ohana donated in memory of their mother, Nancy Oishi.
Leighton Kono represented the Kono Ohana at the BWA Memorial
Service for his mother, Harue Kono.
Roy Nishida participated in the BWA Memorial Service in memory of
his mother, Yuriko Nishida on December 14.
Cheryl and Wayne Nishida participated in the BWA Memorial Service in
memory of Cheryl’s mother, Nancy Tonai.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
- 10 -
Preschool News
Karen Yoshida, Reporter
Ms. Dawn and Miss Kawehi’s Older Group – In photo (Sitting) Noa,
Dash, Sophie, Ellie, Alexis, Camryn, and Lana. (Standing) Ms. Kawehi,
Jacob, Connor, Louis, Izea, Kaimi, Tyler N., Kyson, Kamana, Liam, and
Ms. Dawn.
December 15 was an exciting and joyous celebration at the preschool.
Santa visited our school! Many of our families joined us to welcome
Santa “Rebo.” The highlight was receiving a gift from Santa. Logan and
Ace love their Santa gift.
In Ms. Pua’s younger group: Tyler, Isaiah, Makalapua, Zoie, Robert
John, Leila, and Ms. Pua.
Each group of children created and printed their own Christmas t-shirts
with their teacher. The Fall 5’s group had fun creating their snowman tshirts. In photo: (Sitting) Sam, Chloe, Kaytlyn, Kison, Kalani, Raiden,
and Lanae. (Standing) Ms. Amy, Kysen, Tyler, Faith, Keanu, Mei-Lin,
Ace, Olive, Caylee, and Mrs. Yoshida.
In younger group are Ms. Linda, Mason, Keale, Micah, Kyren, Jolene,
and Ms. Lourdes.
Ms. Joy and Kumu’s Older Group – In photo: (Sitting) Alohalani, Jacob,
Dallas, Jolie, Peyton, Major, and Trent. (Standing) Kumu, Logan,
Blayse, Arianny, Briley, Taygen, Braydon, Keiana.
The staff are treated to an annual Christmas portrait with Santa:
(Kneeling) Ms. Amy, Ms. Dawn, Santa Rebo, Mrs. Yoshida, and Ms.
LaweAnn. (Standing) Mrs. Linda, Mrs. Pua, Ms. Kawehi, Ms. Lourdes,
Mrs. Kumu, and Ms. Joy.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
- 11 -
Dis-n-Dat News
WHM Obon to be held on July 31 and
August 1
T
HE MAUI BUDDHIST COUNCIL ANNOUNCED that
the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission Obon will be held on
July 31, and August 1, 2015. Please save the date on
your calendar. The Council also assigned Obon dates for
the other Buddhist temples on Maui. Listed below are tentative dates set by the Maui Buddhist Council.
Maui Buddhist Council
2015 Obon Schedule
Day
Saturday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Friday
Saturday
Saturday
Saturday
Saturday
Date
June 6
June 13
June 26
June 27
July 3
July 10
July 11
July 17
July 18
July 24
July 25
July 31
August 1
August 7
August 8
August 15
August 22
August 29
Temple
Lahaina Shingon
Puunene Nichiren
Wailuku Jodo
Wailuku Shingon
Lahaina Jodo
Service
6:30 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
Dance
7:30 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
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
7:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Wailuku Hongwanji
6:45 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
Lahaina Hongwanji
6:30 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Kahului Jodo
Paia Rinzai Zen
Kula Shofukuji
6:30 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
8:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
Y.E.S.S. CAMP XXXII set for Camp
Timberline on Oahu
t
EMPLE MEMBERS FROM GRADE 8 TO AGE 23 are
invited to participate in the Y.E.S.S. Camp XXXII
(Young Enthusiastic Shinshu Seekers), which will be
held at Camp Timberline on Oahu from April 3-5. This year’s
theme is “Echi Go Ichie E.”
Children and Youth Activities Specialist Jake Chang
would like you to seize this opportunity to become involved in
something great. Attendees will have three days of work,
challenges, and play. He reminds campers, “You don’t want
to miss this adventure that is going to be filled with new
friends, insights on Buddhism, team bonding, an evening of
dancing, and camp style songs and skits.
Y.E.S.S. Camp registration form is available at:
www.tinyurl.com/yesscamp32form. Cost to participate is
$85, which includes lodging and food. Deadline to register is
February 28, 2015. Late registration of $110 is from February 28th through March 20th. For more information, contact
Reverend Murakami or send email questions to Jake Chang
at: [email protected] or call (808) 937-6555. Application
forms to the camp are available in the temple office.
Reverend Kunisaki Memorial Scholarship applications are available
G
RADUATING SENIORS AND COLLEGE STUDENTS
whose parents are members of the Wailuku
Hongwanji Mission are invited to apply for the Reverend Kunisaki Memorial Scholarship. The amounts of these
scholarships range from $500 to $1,000. Application forms
are available at the temple office for students who are interested in applying for these scholarships. Application deadline is Friday, May 1, 2015.
The objectives of the Kunisaki Scholarship are to provide
financial assistance to qualified applicants in their educational pursuits beyond high school and to encourage them to
continue to pursue their education beyond high school.
Reverend Hojun Kunisaki was this temple’s first minister.
He served as the resident minister from 1898 – 1900.
Wailuku Hongwanji’s Hanamatsuri
and Infant Presentation Day to be held
on Sunday, April 12
R
EVEREND SHINKAI MURAKAMI WOULD LIKE TO
invite temple members, along with parents and
grandparents to participate in the annual Hanamatsuri
(Buddha Day) Service and Infant Presentation Ceremony
(Hatsumairi or Shosanshiki) that will be held on Sunday, April
12, beginning at 8:00 a.m.
He stated that Hanamatsuri, literally means flower festival, is celebrated on April 8, the birth of Siddhartha Gautama. Siddhartha became enlightened as Sakyamuni Buddha
and this marks the release of all sentient beings from suffering and sorrow.
He stated that raising a child or even a grandchild is one
of the most important tasks in one’s life. It is something that
should be done with a great deal of thought. Other than the
gift of life, the Dharma is one of the most important gifts you
could present to your child or grandchild. He said that this
ceremony is our temple’s way of celebrating Hanamatsuri—
the birth of Buddha.
The Infant Presentation Ceremony gives each family the
opportunity to present their child before the Buddha (Truth)
and the Sangha. At this ceremony your child will receive a
gift of its first Onenju.
The parents will take a solemn vow to do all in their
power to guide the spiritual growth of their child according to
the high ideals set forth in the teaching of the Buddha. The
parents are in effect revealing their commitment to raising
this child in such a way that the child will hopefully see the
merit of the parent's chosen religious path and after that
choose it as their own. The temple and its followers are revealing their commitment to support and cherish that child so
that in the future that child will hopefully see the merit of that
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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community's chosen religious path and choose it for their
own.
For application form to participate in the Hatsumairi ceremony, parents and grandparents may contact Reverend
Murakami or pick it up at the temple office.
Gojikai for year 2015 being collected
M
EMBERS ARE REMINDED TO RENEW THEIR
annual gojikai dues for the year 2015. Your board
recommends that the following guideline be used
to determine one’s dues. It recommended that a household
with two or more persons (i.e., couples and couples with
children) pay $20-$30 per month; one member household
(i.e., member living alone) pay $12-$15 per month. However, members may renew their dues at any amount that meets
their ability to pay.
According to board chair Michael Munekiyo, no one will
be excluded from membership based on the amount of
gojikai paid. He stated that by paying gojikai, a member signifies a renewed commitment on his/her part to become a
full-fledged member of the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission.
Honpa Hongwanji to honor Living
Treasures of Hawaii at the Hawaiian
Village on February 14
T
HE HONPA HONGWANJI MISSION OF HAWAII
WILL honor the following individuals as the 2015
Living Treasures of Hawai’i™ in recognition of their
personal and professional achievements and their contributions to the community. A luncheon will be held at the Hilton
Hawaiian Village Coral Ballroom on February 14.
BLOSSOM PUANANI ALAMA TOM is an icon of hula,
known throughout the world as an outstanding hula teacher
and dancer. For 75 years, Blossom has perpetuated the Hawaiian culture by sharing the beauty and grace of hula with
generations of those who appreciate the art, from Waikiki to
Washington, D.C. Besides dancing, Blossom has served as
a judge for many hula events, including the Merry Monarch
Hula Festival, and is the only surviving judge from its first
festival. She hold the honorable title of the oldest active Kumu Hula (hula master) alive today.
HAUNANI S. APOLIONA has dedicated her life to helping
the native Hawaiian community. Through her contributions
in the field of social work with Alu Like, she helped to improve the lives of Native Hawaiians. As the longest serving
Board chairperson in the history of the Office of Hawaiian
Affairs (OHA) trustee, she provided leadership in the pursuit
of Federal Recognition for native Hawaiians, and the formation of a native Hawaiian governing entity. Haunani continues to bolster the Hawaiian culture through music, as a
composer and award-winning master slack-key guitarist.
DR. BERNICE KUSAKO HIRAI, through tutelage and talent,
continues to grow an appreciation of the Japanese culture.
As a professor at the University of Hawai’i College of Education, Dr. Hirai has shared her love of the Japanese language
with students and was instrumental in the development of
instructional materials for secondary schools. She is also a
sought after performer in koto, being the first person outside
of Japan to be awarded the Shihan (Master Instructor) rank
by Sawai Sokyoku-In, Tokyo. At age 89, she is writing a
book about the history of koto in Hawaii, a clear demonstration of a continuous passion for growth and learning.
PAULETTE NOHEALANI KAHALEPUNA love of the feather
lei was passed down to Paulette Nohealani Kahalepuna from
her mother. For over thirty years, she has been preserving
the ancient Hawaiian art of featherwork through her awardwinning, internationally recognized lei. Paulette has led
feather lei making and kahili (feather standards) workshops
around the world and has helped in the restoration and creation of numerous kahili ku (large kahili) for Kamehameha
Schools and the Queen Lili’uokalani Children’s Center. Today, the tradition continues with mother, daughter, and
granddaughter being involved, assuring the beautiful art form
will continue and grow.
LAURA RUBY’S numerous and exceptional contributions to
Hawaii are not only read, but seen. As a teacher at the University of Hawai’i Art Department and author of two books,
Laura has helped to foster an appreciation and interest in art
history in Honolulu. Through her work with the Landscape
Advisory Committee for the UH Manoa, she has helped to
beautify the campus. She was also key in initiating the process of giving the Moiliili entrance to the University an official
name, Moiliili Gate. She continues to have a hand in bringing
beauty and art to the campus, helping to draft a comprehensive Campus Artwork Policy, which is forthcoming.
BARRY TANIGUCHI is widely known as a successful businessman, yet his contributions to the community are just as
broad and equally significant. As Chairman and CEO of Puna Plantation Hawaii Ltd. (dba KTA Super Stores) and President and CEO of K. Taniguchi Ltd., Barry leads by example,
having served on several boards including the Chamber of
Commerce of Hawaii, Hawaii Health Systems Corp, the Hawaii Employees Council, University of Hawaii Mauna Kea
Management Board, Hawaii Employers Council, the Queen’s
Health Systems and American Savings Bank. Altruism and
philanthropy are hallmarks of this respected businessman
and family man, who continuously demonstrates his commitment to the State by donating generously of his time.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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Business Manager’s Message
Hoji Memorial Services (February)
By Franklin Hamasaki
Date
What is gojikai?

OJIKAI IS MEMBERSHIP DUES. WHEN I FIRST became a member, I did not realize that I had to pay
membership dues. I thought that since I lived with my
parents and they paid their gojikai I did not have to pay
gojikai, too. This is not true. If you are an employed adult,
you should be a dues-paying temple member.
It is that time of year when we remind members to pay
their dues (gojikai). Unlike other religious organizations,
Wailuku Hongwanji Mission has a yearly dues. Of the yearly
dues collected, over 73% goes to Honpa Hongwanji as part
of our temple’s assessment to support Honpa’s activities.
The balance, along with fundraisers, such as the Maui
Matsuri and Maui Fair chow fun, are used to pay for all operation of the temple such as electricity, gas, water, telephones, insurance, minister’s salary and benefits, associated
costs such as housing, employment taxes and so forth. Repairs and upgrades are also taken from this money. Special
fundraisers (115th Anniversary Fundraiser) are used for specific projects (social hall awnings and doors, tile flooring).
Our yearly dues is $12-$15 per month ($180 yearly) for
single individuals and $20-$30 a month ($360 yearly) for
couples and families. These dues are suggested not required. Dues may be in any amount based on your ability to
pay.
We have a variety of payment plans, monthly, quarterly.
The membership form (in the office) has the different ways
dues may be paid. For new members, it is important to complete the membership form. This provides information for our
roster and email address for the newsletter.
Please consider becoming a member of our sangha by
paying your gojikai (dues).
Feb. 3
Feb. 14
Feb. 15
Feb. 2
Feb. 3
Feb. 17
Feb. 27
Feb. 6
Feb. 17
Feb. 2
Feb. 11
Feb. 13
Feb. 4
Feb. 11
Feb. 11
Feb. 13
Feb. 19
Feb. 21
Feb. 28
Feb. 2
Feb. 25
Feb. 18
Feb. 20
Name
1st Year – 2014
Nishida, Yuriko “Lillian” (HO NEN)
Oishi, Nancy Otomo (MYO RI)
Kamimura, George (SEO DO)
3rd Year – 2013
Takamiya, Masako (SHO GYO)
Teshima, Kazuo (WA GEN)
Sugahara, Peggy (KO DOKU)
Fukutomi, Archie “Fuku” (SEI SHO)
7th Year – 2009
Oda, Yoshie (HO KEN)
Marugaki, Minoru (KYO NEN)
13th Year – 2003
Ikeda, Shizue (JYAKU JO)
Hashimoto, Bob (KO SETSU)
Moriyasu, Shigeru (JI)
17th Year – 1999
Ansai, Thomas Shoichi (SHO TOKU)
Hamasaki, Kimiko (MYO KUN)
Tamiya, Masao (JYO SHO)
Nashiwa, Lorraine (SEI E)
Higa, Ushi (MYO SHI)
Fujimoto, Shigeko (CHI SHO)
Suematsu, Setsuyo (MYO SETSU)
33rd Year – 1983
Suzuki, Makoto (KEN RYO)
Tokunaga, Melvin (AKUDO)
50th Year – 1966
Kubo, Yoshimitsu (MYO GI)
Yamaoka, Waki (MYO KI)
What is “Ahana koko lele?”
M
Y WIFE AND I WERE TALKING ABOUT
“the good old days.” One of the saying that I
used to say to a friend was “a hanka gogo
lele” when he did something wrong and was going to get
scolding. My wife said I was saying it wrong, so I looked it
up and guess what, she was right. It’s “Ahana koko lele” is
the right way to say it.
What does it mean? It is a Hawaiian saying and is often
told to someone (friend, sibling, co-worker, etc.) that has
done something wrong and is about to “catch it” for what
he/she did.
I believe the way one says it depends on where one
grew up. That’s how I learn to say it and nobody corrected
me. How about you? How did you say it?
Deepest Sympathy
The Wailuku Hongwanji Mission extends deepest sympathy and condolence to the families of the
following:
Edward Kiyoshi Watanabe (SHO DO) Age 87,
325 Kahiki Street, Kahului; passed away on December 20, 2014.
Harold Tatsuo Shinyama (CHI ZEN) Age 85,
613 Mapuana Place, Wailuku; passed away on December 23, 2014.
Nobuo “Obon” Kurisu (SHIN YU) Age 87, 31
Moani Place, Wailuku; passed away on January 9,
2015.
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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Acknowledgments
KYODAN
Rev. Jan Youth – In memory of Yukitaka Ansai
Dr. Patti Endo
Mr. Leighton Kono – In memory of Jiro and Harue Kono
Mr. Leslie Kono – In memory of Jiro and Harue Kono
Mrs. Takeko Inamasu – In memory of Yoshito Inamasu
Mrs. Barbara Tadakuma – In memory of Yoshito Inamasu
Mrs. Winifred Fujimoto
Ms. Itsuyo Kusuda
Mrs. SaraJean Tokunaga – In memory of Aaron Oscar Tokunaga, and Tokunaga Family
Mrs. SaraJean Tokunaga – In memory of Kalani Jyun Tokunaga
Mrs. SaraJean Tokunaga – In memory of Donald and Alice
Tokunaga
Ms. Annette Yoda – In memory of Minoru Yoda
Mrs. Sylvia Tamanaha
Mr. George Shigezawa
HO-ONKO
Fujii, Ethel
Fujimoto, Teruko
Goshi, Emiko
Hashibe, Audree
Hirata, Charles
Kubota, Janet
Kusuda, Itsuyo
Kuwae, Stella
Miyamoto, Richard
Mori, Shoichi
Moriyasu, Machiko
Ogasawara, Toni
Ohigashi, Helen
Omuro, Mae
Ouchi, Dennis
Ouchi, Richard
Satoshige, Lillian
Shibano, Fujio
Shimoda, Nancy
Shishido, Larry
Sugiki, Shigemi
Takemoto, Howard
Taketa, Susumu
Tamiya, Hisako
Tanaka, Florence
Tanaka, Helen & Wayne
Teshima, Frances
Toyama, Raymond
Unemori, Alan
Wong, Jr. Wesley
NEW YEAR’S DONATION
Arconado, Diane Ohashi
Baker, Joyce
Endo, Calvin
Endo, Joyce
Fujii, Ethel
Fujimoto, Teruko
Fukumoto, Ruth
Fukunaga, Rikio
Hashi, James
Hayase, Chester
Anonymous
Hedani, Wayne
Hiyakumoto, Fumiko
NOKOTSUDO
Mr. Katsuaki Ogawa – In memory of Keaji,Haruyo and Kasaji
Ogawa
Mrs. Patsy Tokishi – In memory of Tsuruo and Chitoshi Matsui
Mr. Thomas Tokumaru
Mrs. Betty Nomura
Mr. George Shimada
Mr. James Yamagata – In memory of Minoru and Mitsu
Yamagata
Mr. Alan Miyazaki – In memory of M/M Miyazaki
Mr. William Higa – In memory of Gwen Higa
Mr. Howard Takemoto
Ms. Florence Tanaka – In memory of Nancy Oishi
SOCIAL CONCERN
Mr. Kazuichi Hamasaki
BUILDING FUND
Ms. Prudence Ota – In memory of Hatsuyo and Iwataro Ota,
and Kyono and Tsuneju Tanaka
Hiyakumoto, Ronald
Honda, Kikuo
Honda, Larry
Ikeuchi, Eric
Imoto, Molly
Izutsu, Amy
Izutsu, Brent
Kaneda, Calvin
Kimura, Stella
Kirias, III Henry
Koja, Jane
Kunimitsu, Lester
Kushiyama, Gail
Kuwae, Stella
Mainaga, Patricia
Miyamoto, Richard
Murata, Misayo
Nakahashi, Tetsuo
Ogata, Liane
Omuro, Mae
Osaki, Robyn
Ota, Prudence
Ouchi, Dennis
“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
Ouchi, Richard
Sakotani, Masako
Sato, Tommy
Shibano, Fujio
Shinoda, John
Shoda, Yukimi
Sugiki, Dale
Sugiki, Kazuo
Sugiki, Shigemi
Takamiya, Lance
Takemoto, Howard
Tokunaga, Sara-Jean
Tomita, Leonard
Tomokiyo, Joan
Toyama, Raymond
Unemori, Linda
Wong, Jr. Wesley
Yamane, Joy
Yamazaki, Mika
Yokoyama, Alan
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“A WELCOMING SPIRIT GROWS OUR COMMUNITY TEMPLE”
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