The Buddhist Women’s Association warmly welcomes its newest members who joined in May and June: Laura Echiverri, Claire Fujii-Krall, Gary Murai, Jan Owens, and Jeanne Smythe. We are grateful to have you as part of our BWA ʻohana.
The BWA also extends its sincere appreciation to the individuals who create the beautiful floral arrangements for our temple services and who faithfully assist with the monthly Hosha cleaning. Your dedication and care help make our temple a welcoming and inspiring place for all.
A limited number of books from the third, and final, printing of the 120th Anniversary Cookbook are still available. If you would like to purchase a copy, please contact Gwen Hiraga. Cookbooks will also be available for purchase at Obon while supplies last.
Please join us for the next BWA General Membership Meeting on July 12, immediately following the temple service. At this meeting, Mr. Danny Topp will present an introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and discuss how this rapidly evolving technology is shaping our world.
The BWA is also planning special food sales during July, including a tentative pre-Obon sale on July 12th & 26th. Selected handmade craft items, including bucket hats, tote bags, children’s happi coats, pouches, and greeting cards may also be available.
Happy Birthday to our members celebrating birthdays in July: Joan Akai, Cora Cabral, Margaret Honda, Tamara Manley, Machiko Moriyasu, Jane Nishiguchi, Celeste Rabang, Phyllis Sato, Florence Tanaka, Dan Thompson, Judy Toba Stillwell, and Miki Tomita Okamoto. We wish you a year filled with good health, happiness, and many blessings.
Helping Hands Needed for Hosha Day & Omigaki
The BWA welcomes anyone interested in helping to assist with Hosha Day, held on the first Thursday of every month, and Omigaki, which will be held on July 20th. Volunteers of all ages are welcome, and no experience is necessary. Even a few hours of assistance can make a tremendous difference.
Omigaki is the careful cleaning and polishing of temple ornaments and furnishings. It is an important tradition that helps prepare the temple for services and special observances while honoring the generations who have cared for these sacred objects before us. Many of the temple ornaments are large and extremely heavy, and the dedicated members who faithfully perform this work each year would greatly appreciate additional helping hands.
If you are interested in helping, please contact the BWA Director through the Temple Office at (808) 244-0406.