Namo Amida Butsu
At the beginning of 2024, let us commence our journey by reciting the Amida Buddha’s infinite light and life, Namo Amida Butsu, with joy and gratitude.
The year 2023 posed challenges for many of us. Following Maui’s wildfires, both our community and we endured sad and testing experiences. Nevertheless, every experience is an opportunity for growth, enabling us to move forward and encounter new things with a mindset of gratitude
In 2024, the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii will mark its Hawaii Kyodan’s triple celebration (Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii’s 135th anniversary, Shinran Shonin’s 850th memorial, and the 800th year since the establishment of Hongwanji) in September at Ala Moana Hotel in Honolulu. Additionally, the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission will observe its 125thanniversary celebration on October 20. It promises to be a joyful and busy year for all of us, providing an excellent opportunity to pass on our legacy and values to our children, grandchildren, and community.
About 125 years ago, our great Issei pioneers, despite facing severe and complicated lives, planted the significant seeds of the Nembutsu, embodying Amida’s infinite life and light. These seeds flourished, bringing great blessings, joy, and courage through the guidance of the Nembutsu. Unfortunately, due to World War 2, most Nembutsu plants were destroyed. However, even as the beautiful flowers of TEACHINGS FROM THE REVEREND A Happy New Year! Reverend Shinkai Murakami the Nembutsu were lost, the seeds persisted in the hearts of our great Nisei. Through the extraordinary efforts of the wonderful Nisei and Sansei Nembutsu followers, these seeds sprouted in new generations.
As mentioned earlier, 2024 is a wonderful stepping stone for the entire Hongwanji Ohana to share profound guidance within our Ohana and rejoice in the joy and happiness of our friends and Ohana. Always remember, Jodo Shinshu is a dynamic teaching of Amida Buddha, and his infinite wisdom and compassionate heart continually reach ours, illuminating the path of truth. May we all welcome 2024 with a mindset of gratitude and rejoice in the joy and happiness of others.
In 2024, may we all entrust ourselves to Amida’s calling voice of the Nembutsu and live with Namo Amida Butsu. May all of you and your family be blessed with Amida Buddha’s Infinite Wisdom and Compassion, leading lives filled with peace and serenity.
Once again, Happy New Year!
