It’s summer and Obon time! Obon is the time we reflect on our departed ancestors’ hardships and sacrifices. Without them, we would not have our wonderful temple and sangha.
Our Obon service will be on July 20 at 3 p.m. Socho (Bishop) Kodo Umezu will be our guest speaker. A brief service in the Nokotsudo will also be held. Following the service, there will be a showing of the film “Streams of Light”. This film chronicles the history of the Buddhist Churches of America and its dedication in spreading the Dharma in the United States.
In addition to the film, there will be martial arts demonstrations, ukulele and taiko performances. Cultural exhibits will include Bonsai, temari, origami, Ikebana, and card making. YABA will have food available as well as obento (pre-order only) made by BWA. The festivities will culminate with Obon Odori beginning at 7:30 pm.
Don’t forget to invite friends and family to the festivities. Let’s make this year’s Obon a “Gathering of Joy” for all who attend.
These are guidelines to help in the event of a death in the family. It is a general outline and the procedures may vary with the wishes of the family. The Funeral and 7th Day Service are often combined, and the interment (burial) or inurnment (cremation) service takes place at a later time. Contact the Church at (916) 383-1831.
Upon contacting the Church, the minister will come to officiate the Makura-gyo (bedside service), which is a short service following death. Always give your name, phone number and directions to your place very clearly.
In case of death in the early hours of the morning, the bedside service may be held at a more convenient time when relatives and close friends are able to attend. The service may be held at the location of death, home, mortuary or the church.
If your residence is unfamiliar to the minister, you can expedite matters by arranging to meet the minister at some well-known location or landmark and leading him to your residence.