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.
Our mission continues to be to share the wisdom and compassion of the Buddhist teachings and practice with the greater community. We offer weekly religious services, lectures, Dharma study classes, meditation instruction, library, counseling, weddings, funerals and other ceremonies for special life passages, as well as Japanese cultural classes, martial arts classes, and various fun social activities. We also offer many youth activities including religious instruction (Dharma School) for children and teenagers, social activities, community service activities, outings, and a very active sports program centered around our full-size gymnasium.