Shinran Shonin’s birthday was peacefully commemorated at Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple on May 17 with a meaningful observance honoring our revered founder. The beautiful sunny morning began with a service featuring Rev. Ai Hironaka as guest speaker. He delivered a thought-provoking Dharma message centered on Shinran’s profound teaching of the nembutsu and Amida Buddha’s compassionate embrace of us “just as you are.”
Following the service, temples gathered for the annual Cornhole competition. Wailuku Hongwanji was represented by Mackey Noguchi, his father, his son Daryl, and two guests from California, forming a five-member team determined to defend last year’s first-place title. Although they played strongly and competitively throughout the event, they finished in second place by just one point behind the victorious team from Makawao Hongwanji.
Making its debut this year was a Bocce Ball competition, held simultaneously alongside the Cornhole tournament. Representing Wailuku Hongwanji were doubles team, Danny Topp and Ed Tamori. Congratulations to Danny and Ed for capturing first place in the inaugural event — and bringing home a trophy!
