take refuge in the light of joy july/august 2014 three aspects to the story...

TAKE REFUGE IN THE LIGHT OF JOY July/August 2014

BUDDHIST CHURCH OF PARLIERP.O. Box 547 360 Newmark Avenue

Parlier, California 93648Phone: (559) 646-2844

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Three Aspects to the Story of O-BonO-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 Ullam-bana-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 import-ant, 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.

MESSAGE FROM REV. ALAN SAKAMOTO

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Post-It NotesHello! 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 remind-ers 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

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSThe Buddhist Church of Parlier would like to extend our

appreciation to the following for their generous donationsTEMPLEMr. & Mrs. Johnson Kakutani Memorial for Tadako Kakutani ......................................................$50.00 Windle Family Memorial for Tsune Kimura ........................................................$100.00 Mr. & Mrs. David Ogami Memorial for Terumi Ogami ..........................................................$20.00 Mrs. Toshiye Nakamichi 7th year memorial for Tom Nakamichi ........................................$100.00 Mr. & Mrs. Curtis Koga Sons’ weddings ............................................................................$600.00 Mrs. Naomi Tamura Memorial for Shizue Kagawa ........................................................$25.00 Mr. & Mrs. Mark Takemoto Picnic .............................................................................................$72.00 Sangha Gathering June donations ................................................................................$63.00 Sangha offerings Bishop’s & Lady Ohtani Memorial Service ..................................$35.00Myrtle Matsumoto Donation for Monthly Newsletter ..................................................$50.00 DONATIONS for MONTHLY MEMORIAL SERVICE:Mrs. Sumiko Ebisuda ....................$20.00 Mrs. Toshiye Nakamichi .............. $20.00 Mrs. Takako Kanemoto ................$30.00 Mr. & Mrs. Ken Tsuboi ................. $25.00 Mrs. Hiroko Kimoto .....................$25.00 Wong-Sing Family ......................... $80.00 Mrs. Natsuko Kimura ...................$20.00 Mr. Robert Yano ............................ $20.00 Mr. & Mrs. Shiz Kimura ...............$20.00 Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Yoshimoto ...... $20.00 Mrs. Jean Kobashi ..........................$20.00 Mr. Kaz Yoshimoto ....................... $20.00 Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Miyakawa .......$35.00 Mrs. Ruby Yukawa ........................ $20.00 DONATIONS for MINISTER’S ASSISTANTS’ FUND: Mr. & Mrs. Tatsumi Arakawa Mr. & Mrs. Tom Koga Mr. & Mrs. Fred Nagare Mr. Patrick Chiamori Mr. & Mrs. Gary Kozuki Mrs. Toshi Nakamichi Mrs. Flora Doi Mr. & Mrs. Tad Kozuki Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Shimizu Ms. Gail Hachiya Mr. & Mrs. Tim Kozuki Mrs. May Takata Mr. & Mrs. Donald Ikemiya Mr. & Mrs. Wes Kubo Mrs. Teruko Tsuji Dr. & Mrs. Dennis Ikuta Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Miyakawa Mrs. Ruby Yukawa Mrs. Natsuko Kimura

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My Childhood Recollection of ObonMy 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…………………….

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THOUGHTS FROM THE SANGHABy Yuki Mori, MA and Board Member

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MONTHLY BOARD MEETING JUNE 9, 2014

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 month-ly 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 Memori-al 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.

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.

By Kaye Kozuki, Church Secretary

BUDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATIONBy 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

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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. 10-12, 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 CORNERABOUT 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 tonsilsSnoring 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

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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 SHOTSUKIDECEASED MOURNERMr. 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 SHOTSUKIDECEASED MOURNERMr. 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 ...................................................

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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

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

GREAT ATMOSPHERE! FREE PARKING! EVERYONE WELCOME!

Information: (559)442-4054 or [email protected]

Doors Open at 2:00pm

Enjoy a variety of Asian-flair food , Desserts & Beverages throughout the day!

4:00pm

Taiko Drums, Carnival Games & Bake Walks

7:30pm Personalized Memorial Lanterns,

OBON Dance, Taiko Drums and $2500 Raffle!

Obon dancing is easy, no experience required and FUN for all ages!

Want to practice with us? Join us! June 18 & 26, July 1, 7 & 9

7:00pm Fresno Buddhist Dharma Center

Photo

cred

it: D

ennis

A. A

mith

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 (Mon) Rev. Harada’s Class .....................7:00pm 7 (Sun) Sangha Gathering ......................10:00am 8 (Mon) Board Meeting ............................7:00pm 10 (Wed) Curtis Discussion Group ...........7:00pm 17 (Wed) CCDC Meeting in Fowler ..........7:00pm 20 (Sat) Q & A with HarryBridge ...........4:00pm 21 (Sun) Fall Ohigan with Harry Bridge 10:00am

BUDDHIST CHURCH OF PARLIERP.O. Box 547Parlier, CA 93648

Address Service Requested

NON-PROFITORGANIZATIONU.S POSTAGE

PARLIER, CA 93648PERMIT #23

盂蘭盆会法要（歓喜会）OBON SERVICE and

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR JULYSunday, July 13, 2014 at 10:00 A.M.

Guest Speaker: Rev. William MasudaLuncheon to follow

DIRECTORY OF OFFICIERS

Minister Rinban Kakei Nakagawa .442-4054 Rev. Alan Sakamoto ..... 442-4054Church President Dennis Ikuta ................. 638-4962Vice-President Toshie Mori ................... 638-8614Secretary Wes Kubo ...................... 638-6758Treasurer Glenn Yoshimoto ...........897-1811Maintenance James Goishi ................. 638-5510Fujinkai Presidents Joyce Sasai .................... 897-7236 Cheryl Koga ................. 638-4669Newletter Editors Curtis Koga .................. 638-4669 Julie Doi ........................ 896-6354 Karen Shimizu.............. 896-0795Webmaster Glenn Nakamichi ......... 896-5240 www.bcparlier.org

JULY BUDDHIST RADIO BROADCAST KFIB (AM900) SATURDAY 7:20AM

JULYEnglish Japanese 5 Michael Maruyama Midori Nakakawa 12 Ron Hata Midori Nakakawa 19 Toshie Mori Yuki Mori 26 George Teraoka Yuki MoriAUGUSTEnglish Japanese 2 Rev. Alan Sakamoto Rev. Nakakawa 9 Keith Putirka Rev. Nakakawa 16 Garrett Sano Midori Nakakawa 23 Craig Honda Midori Nakakawa30 Calvin Doi Yuki Mori

1 2 3 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

TAKE REFUGE IN THE LIGHT OF JOY

ParlierBoard Meeting

7:00pm

FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm

Sumi: 3:00pmCalligraphy

5:00pm

FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm


5:00pm

FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm


5:00pm

SanghaGathering10:00am

CurtisDiscussion Class

7:00pm

DONATIONS FOR THEBUDDHIST RADIO BROADCASTEACH BROADCAST IS $50.00

If you wish to donate contact Lee Osaki 442-4054 at the Fresno Buddhist Church.

Obon Service-Hatsubon &

and ShotsukiService w/

Rev. Masuda10:00am

29 30

CBE sponsoredRev. Harada’sLecture Class

in Parlier 7:00pm

Welcome Center9:15am-11:30am

Parlier ClassTaichi

(Parlier Park}8:00am


Parlier ClassTaichi


JULY

Cleanup Group 28:00am

Q & A w/ Rev. Masuda 2:30pmWelcome Center

9:15am-11:30am

Parlier ClassTaichi


FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm


5:00pm

Reedley Obon5:00pm

FowlerObon

ParlierObon

4:30pmWelcome Center

9:15am-11:30am

Parlier ClassTaichi


Parlier ObonPractice7:00pm

Fresno Obon2:00pm

4

ChurchCleanup Group 38:00am

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

25 25

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

TAKE REFUGE IN THE LIGHT OF JOY

ParlierBoard Meeting

7:00pm

FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm


5:00pm

FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm


5:00pm

DONATIONS FOR THEBUDDHIST RADIO BROADCASTEACH BROADCAST IS $50.00

If you wish to donate contact Lee Osaki 442-4054 at the Fresno Buddhist Church

27 28

CBE Lecture at Fowler BCGreg Mukai

7:00pm

CurtisDiscussion Class

7:00pm


Parlier ClassTaichi

(Parlier Park}8:00am8:30am

Parlier ClassTaichi



FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm


5:00pm

29 30


Parlier ClassTaichi


31

Shotsuki Service w/Rev. Alan10:00am

SanghaGathering10:00am

24

AUGUST


Parlier ClassTaichi


FowlerClasses:

Dharma Class:1:00pm


5:00pm

V & P Bus Tripto JSC & San Jose Museum

7:30am

take refuge in the light of joy july/august 2014 three aspects to the story...

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