At the beginning of the Pandemic, it was feared that we would not be able to gather at our beloved temples to observe O-Bon services. We would not be able to remember our deceased loved ones. We would lose a moment to reflect on their life and the relationship we have with our dearly departed and others. We would lose an opportunity to realize the preciousness and oneness of all life. We would, then, not be able to rejoice on that which makes our life meaningful. Finally, we would not be able to positively respond in gratitude to all that makes life so special especially the warm and compassionate embrace of Amida Buddha, the Buddha of Immeasurable Life and Infinite Light, who is promising all life, unconditionally, supreme and perfect Enlightenment. In short, we would miss our “Gathering of Joy” or O-Bon as it is known in Jodo Shinshu, Hongwanji. This would be a great loss! Thus, the idea of a virtual State-wide Bon Service for Hawaii was conceived. It premiered on July 11 and 12 on the HHMH YouTube Channel, but is still available for viewing until September 15, 2020. Donations can be made to temple(s) of your choice online. Please view it as an expression of your reverence for the Buddha and in remembrance of your loved ones.

Similar to the situation with O-Bon Services, it was anticipated that this year, in all probability, no Bon Dances could also be held. Every year, thousands and thousands of people throughout Hawaii look forward to local temple bon dances in their communities for spiritual comfort, fun, camaraderie, good food and fellowship. How unfortunate if we totally miss out. The virtual State-wide Bon Dance will premiere on August 15, 2020 on the HHMH YouTube Channel. Donations can be made to your local temple online. Please join us for an evening of bon dance music and dancing in your own home and enjoy the virtual Bon Dance with special messages from the Office of the Bishop. The video will be available until September 15, 2020 for viewing.

Last year (2019) was the 130th Anniversary of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. An idea to capture some of the thoughts and feelings of our Hongwanji Sangha members, both young and old, was envisioned by Irene Nakamoto and the Headquarters Office. With the full support of the Propagation Grant Committee which funded the creation of the video, a 10-minute video commemorating the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii’s 130 years in Hawaii and capturing some valuable spiritual contributions as expressed by young and old were captured on film by Mark Nitta. Please view the short video with your family, friends and fellow Sangha members to confirm the valuable significance of the Buddha-Dharma and its continued impact on our lives. Let us be encourage and inspired to pass on and share these Teachings with future generations of the people of Hawaii.