A message from Honpa Hongwanjiʻs new president (as of February 2026) as he reflects on leadership, community and humility.

Introduces Rev. Dr. Aaron Proffitt, who will bring a family-centered perspective to this summer’s Buddhist Study Center Summer Session, which begins July 26, 2026 with a family dharma session, followed by three evenings at the BSC.

Some bio details for the first Shining Spirit Youth Award recipient, Jaimee Yokoyama, and how she reflects a quiet, service-driven model of leadership.

How the third annual LGBTQ+ themed service at Hawai‘i Betsuin affirms acceptance, inclusion and the wisdom of the Amida Sutra. Includes biographical info about guest speaker Aiden Aizumi.

Rev. Tatsuo Muneto remembers Buddhist astronaut Ellison Onizuka, whose family is connected to Kona Hongwanji, and reflects on the 40-year anniversary of the Space Shuttle Challenger tragedy.

See the May 2026 Headquarters Update for the following articles: 2026 Pacific Buddhist Academy Graduation (photo and messages) Job Opportunity at the HHMH Hawaii Kyodan-so Funeral Service for Mr. Roy Miyamoto (8/1) Zenshinza’s Performance in Hawaii (9/3 & 9/4) Young Adults Retreat (9/6–9/7; see flyer) Buddhist Study Center Fellowship Club...

Honoka‘a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple’s Peace Committee just shared some inspiring news: The committee’s Feeding Our Keiki and Kupuna program has now served over 100,000 meals and distributed over 1 million pounds of groceries! The media, including KITV and Hawaii News Now, covered the milestone on TV, in newspapers, and online....

A PBA Class of 2026 photo in the Hawaii Betsuin temple, plus messages to the graduates from the Hongwanji Governor General in Kyoto (Baccalaureate) and Bishop Toshiyuki Umitani (Commencement).

See the April 2026 Headquarters Update for the following articles: Message from the Bishop Ingo (posthumous titles) Kahuku Hongwanji Scholarship (flyer and application available) 2026 Bon Service & Dance Schedule Musical Notes April newsletter Dr. Arai’s Buddhism Class (flyer available, starts May 1) 15th BWA State Membership Conference (group photo) BSC Spring Festival (photo collage) More Issues...

See the April 2026 (3.6 MB) Musical Notes newsletter for the following articles: Big Island Celebrates 52 Years of Gathafests Music Editorial by Francis Okano: Gatha Recordings Oahu District Music Notes Honolulu District Music Notes Committee Member List See also Music Committee (includes links to Musical Notes back issues)