Vision 2030
The Wailuku Hongwanji Mission’s (WHM) Board of Directors initiated the Vision 2030 project as a means of defining strategic directions which will enable WHM to successfully increase its capacity to serve as a vibrant home of Jodo Shinshu teachings. More information...
115th Anniversary Project
To commemorate its 115th anniversary, Wailuku Hongwanji Mission will renovate its social hall. The renovations involve removing the existing wood sliding glass doors and replacing them with commercial grade, aluminum sliding glass doors. More Information...
Our Obon (Part 2)
Namu Amida Butsu
Even though the service formats are different, all Buddhist temples will hold its Obon services before the Obon dance and all participants receive the Buddha Dharma (teachings) as they enjoy the Obon dance with the true mind of gratitude.
At Wailuku Hongwanji, after the Obon services on Friday and Saturday, the minister climbs up onto the Yagura and offers a short service which includes an aspiration. I don’t know how and what the previous ministers did before the dance but in my case, I chant "Sanbujo" which is "Three respectful callings for Buddha" both in English and Japanese. I scatter the fresh flowers so called "San-ge" and recite the Obon aspiration which welcomes all the Buddhas to enter and join us at the Obon dance.
During Sanbujo (three respectful callings) and aspiration, everyone (members and participants) pay their respect to our departed members and expresses their sincere gratitude and appreciation which they inherited from the departed. It is at this time that we are able to reflect deeply upon ourselves even if it is for a moment and really feel the great values and treasures which we all received.
After the aspiration, we are clear-minded, and we rejoice in the happiness with others throughout the evening. What is the meaning of "Rejoice in the Happiness?” Young and old are all together around the Yagura as they express their joy of happiness with energy dancing to the Obon music so called "Obon Ondo" with the beat of the Taiko and other special musical instruments. They move their entire body to show their joy of happiness.