B U D D H I S T T E M P L E O F S A N D I E G O BUSSEI

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1 B U D D H I S T T E M P L E O F S A N D I E G O BUSSEI SCRIPT 2929 Market Street, San Diego, California Web: info@btsd.net Phone: VOLUME CXXV NO. 2 FEBRUARY 2015 TEACHERS By Rev. Dr. Kenji Akahoshi, Resident Minister If you can read this, thank a teacher! Teachers are such an important and critical part of our lives, and yet, may also be greatly under-appreciated. In Shin Buddhism, teachers hold an important position in our value system. Shinran always credited his teacher, Honen, for the messages he was presenting. In BCA temples, if the altar area (naijin) is large enough, a scroll with the Seven Patriarchs is hung on the left side of Rennyo. These are the teachers that Shinran credits with the lineage of his understanding of Jodo Shinshu. In December, Western Shin Buddhism lost one of its great teachers. Rev. Dr. Taitetsu Unno passed away. He came from many generations of significant Shin ministers. His son, Dr. Mark Unno, continues this long legacy. His two books, River of Fire, River of Water and Shin Buddhism Bits of Rubble Turned to Gold, has provided the Western world with the teachings and heart of Shin Buddhism. In addition to his significant scholastic and religious contributions, the manner in which he and his wife, Alice, lived, is a demonstration of a Shin Buddhist life. Many have benefitted from his passion and depth, as he shared the Shin Dharma. It must be noted that the real life examples of Shin Buddhists are not saints. The myokonin, or wondrously pure person, is the model for Shin Buddhists. These are real, historical people, who lived common, ordinary lives. Most were peasants whose virtue was not in good deeds, but instead, whose spiritual integrity was based on their honesty with their own human condition. Rev. Jim Yanagihara and many others have related their stories in books. The guiding criteria of their lives was their awareness and acceptance of their human limitations. Yet, they experienced great joy by accepting life as it is, instead of complaining about how it should be. This sense of joy and gratitude resulted from their focus of receiving from others, in spite of their ego-centric thoughts and limited abilities. They considered this perspective as receiving the Compassion of Amida Buddha. Our lives are also transformed, by adopting this perspective. Shakyamuni Buddha s last words to his grieving disciples were to hold his teachings as a guide and not his physical presence. And so, we have the words of the Buddha, amplified by the Seven Patriarchs, clarified by Shinran, and modernized by Dr. Taitetsu Unno and others. We honor teachers by following their teachings. Thus, our task is to practice these teachings. We validate the effectiveness of the Teachings, by living a life of gratitude and joy. Although Dr. Unno and other ministers have been great influences in my religious life, much of what I know about Shin, comes from my observation of ordinary people in our families and community. I have had the benefit of being with people who have lived and died, with a Shin Buddhist perspective. The Three Treasures emphasizes the significance of the Shin sangha, as we hear the refrain: I go to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha for guidance. The family and community members that I have as models, were not saints. They were and are ordinary people. Like the myokonin, it is their honesty in accepting their human nature. They contributed to others and to the community, with whatever resources they had; they did not contribute for recognition or future reward. Their efforts were a response of gratitude, for the benefits already received. It is up-lifting to be in a community that values mutual support and finds great joy in giving. Many may take a cynical view that the problems of the world far outweigh the positive. But it is actually this system of judgment, of good and bad, which is one source of our misery. The appreciation of benefits received, is the awakened mind of interdependence. Going to the sangha for guidance, can mean that we realize that we are listening and hearing the words of the Buddha because of the efforts of countless teachers and Dharma friends. These great teachers have shared their life s wisdom as an expression of their awakening to the Buddha s Truth. The seven Patriarchs, Shinran, Rennyo, Dr. Unno and others have dedicated their lives for the benefit of others. No thought of reward was in their efforts. We need only to receive these truths. Being in this sangha is a means of shifting our view to appreciate what we already have. On a recent trip, I was amazed to see many hidden wildlife, when walking with an experienced nature guide. Among the foliage, birds, insects, hidden reptiles, and animals are abundant when one has the experienced eyes to see them. Similarly, with the practice of thank you, we begin to see the abundance of benefits that has always supported us. Joy slips into our hearts, as we express our gratitude in Namo Amida Butsu. There are no great mystical realms to achieve. Truth is the simple realization that an ordinary life is a precious life. If you can experience this, thank a Shin teacher. The BCA National Council Meeting at the Crowne Plaza Hotel here, in San Diego, will be a wonderful opportunity to express our gratitude to the many ministers and fellow volunteer Sangha members, who make BCA possible. Each of us is BCA. Past ministers, teachers, and BCA have made it possible for each of us to receive the Buddha s words in Shinran s Teachings. We can thank them by living a joyous life of gratitude. Gassho, Kenji Sensei

2 @Conf. Rm. FEBRUARY 2015 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 9 a.m. Dharma School Staff Room 10 a.m. DS/FAMILY SERVICE 日曜礼拝 February Shotsuki Memorial 2 月祥月法要 11:30 a.m. Hospitality hosted by Jr. Rm. 11:30 a.m. Taiko Hall 12 p.m. BWA Meeting 8 9 a.m. BWA MEMORIAL 婦人会員追悼法要 10 a.m. NIRVANA DAY 涅槃会 Guest Speaker: Rev. Carol Himaka, Southern Alameda County Buddhist Temple 11:30 a.m. Hospitality hosted by Sangha Room 11:30 a.m. Taiko Hall a.m. DS/FAMILY SERVICE 日曜礼拝 11:30 a.m. Hospitality hosted by Room 11:30 a.m. Jr. YBA :30 a.m. Taiko Hall 22 9 a.m. INTRO. TO 10 a.m. DS/FAMILY SERVICE 日曜礼拝 11:30 a.m. Hospitality hosted by Taiko Room 11:30 a.m. Taiko Hall MARCH a.m. Jr. YBA Breakfast Hall a.m. BCA Eitaikyo 2 Temple Closed 9 Temple Closed 7 p.m. W&M Mtg. 16 Temple Closed 23 Temple Closed p.m. Minyo Group 民謡 1 p.m. Shigin 1-2 6:30 p.m. Taiko Hall 7 p.m. Buddhism :30 a.m. SD Ministers Nishi Betsuin p.m. Minyo Group 民謡 1 p.m. Shigin 1-2 6:30 p.m. Taiko 7 p.m. Buddhism p.m. Minyo Group 民謡 1 p.m. Shigin 1-2 6:30 p.m. Taiko 7 p.m. Buddhism 7 p.m. Fundraising Room p.m. Minyo Group 民謡 1 p.m. Shigin 1-2 6:30 p.m. Taiko 7 p.m. Buddhism BCA Ministers Assoc. Plaza Hotel 5 12 p.m. IRC Mtg. 12 6:30 pm Board of Directors Room a.m. Koto Class 琴教室 7 p.m. BEC lecture with Rev. Carol Hall 13 7:30 pm So. District Council County Buddhist Church a.m. Koto Class 琴教室 10 a.m. BWA WOFU (Work & Fun) Craft Activity 6-9 p.m. BTSD/VFW Hall So. Dist. Jr. YBA Seminar Buddhist Church 26 BCA Ministers Assoc. Mtg. 1-4:30 p.m. IBS Symposium: Buddhism & Plaza 27 9:30 a.m. 2 p.m. BCA Nat l Council Plaza 2 4:30 p.m. BCA Dharmathon: Four mini Dharma talks Please join us for our weekly services and activities! If you have any questions, please contact the temple s office: (619) , info@btsd.net :30 a.m. 2 p.m. BCA Nat l Council Plaza 2 4:30 p.m. BCA Dharmathon: Four mini Dharma talks

3 FEBRUARY 2015 PRESIDENT S MESSAGE By Glenn Torio, Board President The New Year has begun, and we have hit the road running! From the ringing of the Friendship Bell on Shelter Island (New Year s Eve), to celebrating at the Temple s New Year Party. Over 170 Sangha members were in attendance; from our 88 and Great club, to the youngest of the Dharma School students, to our new temple members. The entertainment was provided by our great Taiko Group, and a sing-a-long with the BWA. Reverend Marvin Harada, from the Orange County Buddhist Church, was in attendance as well. He not only held a BEC talk the night before our service, but spoke 3 times for the different service groups! One important presentation he made was to Kenji Sensei for obtaining his Kaikyoshi Status as a minister in the BCA. This is one of the greatest accomplishments of a new minister; it comes with many hours of study and perseverance. Finishing up the month of January for the New Year was the Temple General Meeting (Jan. 25), and the 21 st Annual Leadership Awards Gala held at the Del Mar Marriot, hosted by the Japan Society of San Diego & Tijuana. We, the Buddhist Temple of San Diego, were awarded the prestigious Phillips Community Service Award for our cultural interchange and understanding between Japan, San Diego and Tijuana. I hope to continue to see many of you at the Temple for regular services. There is something for everyone! Come listen to Kenji Sensei s messages while the kids are in Dharma School, and partake in the Hospitality time after service; such a great place to meet other temple friends to catch up, and have some light snacks. Gassho. BOARD HIGHLIGHTS On Thursday, January 8, 2015, the Board of Directors met and the following items were acted on or discussed. 1. Condolences to the family and friends of Mrs. Kayoko Ochi who passed away on January A memorial service for the late Rev. Dr. Taitetsu Unno was held at Senshin Buddhist Temple on January 11, The 2014 Fiscal Year ended with a 938 positive in the Operations account. There was overall less income generated from temple fundraisers. Operating expenses are expected to increase next year. 4. The Board was updated on the financials and outstanding "to do's" for the Kitchen Compliance project. 5. The Board approved funding toward furnishing the Minister's office. 6. The Kiku Gardens LLC Board voted not to pursue the concept of a joint use project. ABA NEWS January started out with our breakfast meeting at Sunset by the Park, Chula Vista. Those that went enjoyed the meal. On January 18 was the Ho Onko service and temple New Year party, and on the 25 th, some of us attended the Temple General meeting. Our next meeting will be on Saturday, March 7. We are planning to have it at Peking Restaurant at 5 p.m. Let Motoo or Tsu- BTSD BUSSEI SCRIPT BWA NEWS DHARMA SCHOOL NEWS Page 3 ne know if you can attend. Also, a reminder to pay your ABA dues and give it to Umeko. January was another month chockfull of exciting and fun events. Our WOFU (Work & Fun) activity on Wednesday, Jan. 13, was filled with conversation, laughs, and good food, while keeping our hands busy crafting. Our next WOFU craft activity will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb 21. Also, please start saving cleaned paper 1/2 gallon milk cartons and toothpaste boxes for a future craft! The 2015 BWA Cabinet was installed at the Ho Onko service. They are: President Susan Moribe, First VP Akie Tomiyama, Second VP Kikue Graeber, Recording Secretary Junko Kajita, Corresponding Secretary & Web Master Mani Yamaguchi, Treasurer Susan Yonekura, Religious Chair Alice Matsumoto and Ex-Officio Fumiko Ohara. Our official advisors are Kenji Sensei and Mrs. Karen Akahoshi. If you would like to be involved in helping to run our group, please let one of the cabinet members know. We would LOVE to have you join! We had double the fun on January 17 & 18. Our Shinnenkai, or New Year party, was held on Saturday, at Ichiro s, and the Temple New Year party was the following day. Members and friends went on stage to perform We Are Women, the BWA version of Peggy Lee s hit, I m a Woman. We even had a special guest singer, Ms. Glenda Torio! It was a fun celebration! Thank you to Groups A and B for providing delicious hospitality treats after service on January 11. Groups C and D will serve treats when BWA again hosts the hospitality on March 29. If you have one of the rose colored happis that was the uniform at conferences for our BWA, and no longer need it, would you please drop it off at the office, or call Sue at (858) to arrange for a pick up. Thanks! Our annual BWA Memorial Service will be held on February 8 in conjunction with the Lady Takeko Kujo Memorial Service at 9 a.m., before the family service at 10 a.m. The BWA will be taking BTSD ministers and guest minister, Rev. Carol Himaka, to lunch following the service. Location to be announced. Our BWA and ABA will be providing snacks for Wednesday night, February 25, as part of the National Council Meeting, hosted this year by BTSD and Vista Temple. If you would like to contribute something please call Sue. Thank you! Look for our Qigong flyer in this Bussei Script issue! It s coming up on Saturday, March 14, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Qigong involves connecting breathing, body, and the mind. We are so fortunate to have Mr. Masa Naito from the Bay area come to offer a wonderful workshop. It will be interesting, hands on, and open to everyone, so please help spread the word! Don t forget to check the BWA website: southerndistrictbwa.weebly.com/ for the latest on our BWA, as well as BWAs at other Southern District temples. Thanks to Group B for providing delicious snacks for our February 1 meeting. We hope to see you there. Dharma School students, from Pre-Kindergarten through the 5 th grades are participating in the Federation Dharma School (Continued on Page 4)

4 Page 4 BTSD BUSSEI SCRIPT FEBRUARY 2015 (DHARMA SCHOOL: Continued from Page 3) Teachers League (FDSTL) and Southern District Dharma School Teachers League (SDDSTL) Art Project. The theme is GRATI- TUDE. Students are drawing pictures that relate to the theme. The SDDSTL will judge the art projects in March. Winners will receive a prize, and works will be submitted in the FDSTL Art Contest. The children drew their pictures for their craft/activity at the January Ho Onko service. The 9 th 12 th grade class is participating in a poetry contest. Mr. Jim Hornsby has been working with the students on their poems and presentations. Poems will be submitted to the Write Out Loud organization for judging, the first week in February. Winners will be announced in early spring. Good Luck to our students! Sharon Sasaki and I represented the Dharma School at the Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana Leadership Awards Gala on January 29 at the Del Mar Marriot. On March 1, the BCA will hold its Eitaikyo Service at our temple starting at 10 a.m. There is no Dharma School/Family service on this particular day. Everyone is encouraged to participate in the service, and support the Jr. YBA breakfast fundraiser from 8 to 10 a.m. Donation is 8. Students who attend the service will receive extra credit. The annual gathering between BTSD and the Vista Buddhist Temple will take place on Sunday, March 29 at Vista. The service will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Dharma School classes. The next staff meeting is scheduled for Sunday, February 1 at 9 a.m. Gassho, Mrs. Avis Honda, Superintendent JR. YBA NEWS In January, the group began preparations for Southern District Seminar II, which we will co-host with Vista on May 2 at BTSD. The committee chose the theme Hello, My Name is Big Hero Buddha. The co-chairs will be San Diego president Mark Torio and Nicole Robertson, Vista s president. The group will be working with Kenji Sensei on the religious program. We will also plan icebreakers and workshops. Parents will prepare snacks and dinner Also in January, the roster and membership dues were submitted to the Southern District cabinet. There are 12 dues paying members. Members will be able to participate in the Southern District volleyball and basketball tournaments. On Sunday, March 1, the San Diego and Vista Jr. YBA groups will host a breakfast fundraiser during the BCA National Council meeting at the temple from 8 to 10 a.m. The breakfast will precede the National Eitaikyo Service. Members are currently selling tickets. The donation is 8. The menu will consist of miso soup, rice, scrambled eggs, sausage, fruit, along with drinks. Please support the fundraiser! This month, Jr. YBA will host hospitality on February 1, and lead the Sutra Chanting for the Nirvana Day service on February 8. Members plan to attend Seminar I, hosted by the So. Dist. Cabinet at the Gardena Buddhist Church on February 21. One week later, we will be preparing the breakfast fundraiser. In Gassho, Breven Honda, Second VP UPDATE Bingo began again on January 31, starting at 6 p.m. VFW served their delicious Hot dogs and Chili dogs from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. If you are looking for something to do on a Saturday night, please come out and support the Temple and the VFW for their monthly Bingo Nights! Remember, the Temple gets 50% of all proceeds. Buy-in is 10, and extra cards are 0.50 each. Pull tabs are also available for 0.50 each. A raffle for prizes is held just before the first break. BUDDHIST EDUCATION NEWS Bill Teague, BEC Coordinator San Diego s Own Rev. Carol Himaka on Feb. 7 and 8. Please join us in welcoming Rev. Carol back to San Diego this month! Currently the Resident Minister at the Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church, Rev. Carol was born and raised in San Diego. Her path prior to her current post included stints at the Fresno Betsuin, BCA headquarters in San Francisco, and Enmanji Buddhist Temple in Sebastopol. Not only will she be our guest speaker for the Nirvana Day and the BWA Memorial Service on Sunday, Feb. 8, she will also present an informal Dharma presentation on Saturday, 7 p.m., in the Sangha Hall. The event is free and open to the public. MORE IN 2015 SAVE THE DATES! Sunday, March 15, 1 p.m.: Rev. Peter Hata, Higashi Hongwanji (Spring Higan Speaker) Saturday, April 11, 7 p.m.: Brian Nagata, Sensei (Hanamatsuri Speaker) Sunday, May 17, 1 p.m.: Rev. George Matsubayashi, retired (Gotan-E Speaker) Saturday, July 25, 3 p.m. (tentative): Rev. William Briones, L.A. Betsuin (O-Bon Speaker) Saturday, Sept. 19, 7 p.m.: Ven. Karma Lekshe Tsomo, USD (Fall Higan Speaker) Saturday, Nov. 7, 7 p.m.: Rev. Don Castro, Seattle Betsuin (Eitaikyo Speaker) MEMBERSHIP NOTES & 2015 Bill Teague, Acting Membership Chair Here is a more complete version of the oral membership report offered at our General Meeting conducted January 25. Overview. We can be grateful that the Buddhist Temple of San Diego continues to attract new members as well as returning families. This progress continues even during a time of increased fluidity among San Diego residents, with people moving in and out more readily than in decades past. Some Temples have not been able to attract new members or enjoy the youthful energy of Dharma School students and Jr. YBA members, along with younger adults coming together in the Dharma. Our new members in 2014 include some Shin Buddhists who have moved to the area or who have returned to the tradition after an absence, and a healthy number of other community (Continued on Page 5)

5 FEBRUARY 2015 BTSD BUSSEI SCRIPT Page 5 (MEMBERSHIP: Continued from Page 4) members from various walks of life who are simply attracted to the Dharma. In general, our new members range from young to senior adults. Small Decline in Despite our generally positive outlook, 2014 saw a small net loss in our membership due to members passing away or moving from the area. We attracted seven new members but lost almost a dozen. We ran at a net deficit within 2014, losing a dozen members who passed away, or, in a few cases, moved from San Diego, but only adding seven new members. We ended 2014 with 256 active members, representing some 188 families. This count includes all members current through 2014 and members were paid for 2014 by the end of 2014; 17 of our 2013 members had yet to renew. Realistically we don t expect all to catch up in their arrears and we need to attract new members to offset any loss. Challenge in Our challenge will be to continue to grow the Sangha for a net gain each year. However, by the end of December 2014 we had already received two applications for new members to start in 2015, which bodes well for the coming year. Thank you again for your support! In 2015 let s help the Temple to grow its membership further. Please consider joining now if not yet a member, and inviting friends and family to join us on the Nembutsu path otherwise. SCRIP NEWS Happy New Year! The Scrip Program is off to a good start. We have added 10 Starbucks gift cards to the list of cards that we carry. It was also requested that we have Amazon.com and Macy's on hand, so we do also carry them. We continue to carry Albertson's, Sprouts, Stater Brothers, Smart & Final, and Vons for your shopping needs. We also have Target and Walmart. For home improvement projects we have Home Depot gift cards. We also carry a variety of restaurants. If we don't have it, it usually only takes a week to receive it so don't hesitate to put in your order! Order forms can be found in the office and in the foyer of the hondo. Just remember to keep on buying Scrip as it is not only safer, but also helps the temple make money! KIKU GARDENS FRIDAY LUNCHES-2015 SCHEDULE The Temple has been participating in the Friday Senior Lunch Program at Garden Villas Senior Housing (formerly Kiku Gardens) since its inception. Enjoy a complete, nutritional meal planned by eight local organizations and prepared by the staff and volunteers for Garden Villas seniors and guests. Participating organizations: Asian Pacific Post 4851 (VFW), Buddhist Temple of San Diego (BTSD), Japan Society of San Diego & Tijuana (JSSDT), Japanese Friendship Garden (JFG), Pioneer Ocean View United Church of Christ (POVUCC), Genki Homecare (Genki), Garden Villas (GV), and Kiku Gardens (Kiku). Garden Villas is located at rd Avenue, Chula Vista, CA Here is a schedule of the 2015 of the lunches for the first half of the 2015 year: 2/6 JFG; 2/13 JSSDT; 2/20 KIKU; 2/27 POV- UCC; 3/6 VFW; 3/13 BTSD; 3/20 GV; 3/27 GENKI; 4/3 JFG; 4/10 JSSDT; 4/17 KIKU; 4/24 POVUCC; 5/1 VFW; 5/8 BTSD; 5/15 GV; 5/22 GENKI; 5/29 JFG; 6/5 JSSDT; 6/12 KIKU; 6/19 POVUCC; and 6/26 VFW. BTSD NEW YEAR S PARTY Sangha members and friends, from the 88-and-great ageless wonders to the youngest Dharma School students, participated in the temple s annual New Year s Party on Sunday, January 18. Nearly 175 people filled the Annex Hall to enjoy a day of friendships and to ring in 2015, the Year of the Sheep. Ken Muraoka served as master of ceremonies, shared reflections and trivia of 2014 and what is in store of this year. Mr. Koryu Morikawa, representing the temple s Shigin group, provided a New Year Japanese reading. Mr. Ralph and the Dharma School children provided the kampai or New Year s toast. The BWA, accompanied by Glenda Torio, the very charming sister to President Glenn Torio, entertained the audience with their song We Are Women. The thunderous sounds provided by the taiko group rocked the room with two entertaining pieces. President Torio presented Kenji Sensei, Rev. Aoyama and Jamie Shimizu with their year-end Oseibo gifts. A carousel of 2014 video memories flashed on the stage screen. Special thanks is extended to Ichiban Restaurant in Hillcrest for providing the delicious O Bento (box lunch) and sake donations. Other donations were provided by Naomi Himaka and Keidan Floral Designs, LuAnn Lee and her yummy cakes and Doug Ojiri of 3D s Travel for sake donations. Many thanks to the individuals who dedicated their efforts to make the New Year s Party a success. There are a lot of behind the scenes preparations that go on well before the day of the event. Activity began with the initial announcement, recording food orders, sending out invitation letters, setting up tables and chairs, Sunday set up, passing out the meals, kitchen help and clean up. The temple is very grateful and fortunate to have so many dedicated individuals. Have a wonderful 2015! Gassho, Ralph Honda, Chairperson BTSD Benefit Bingo Dinner On MARCH 28, the temple will be having a Benefit Dinner before Bingo Night begins. The menu is still in the works, but be on the lookout for more information, and Save-the-date!

6 Page 6 BTSD BUSSEI SCRIPT FEBRUARY 2015 STAGE IS SET FOR BCA NATIONAL COUNCIL MEETING All eyes will be on San Diego when the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) conducts its annual Ministers Association and National Council Meeting, Feb. 25 through March 1 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Mission Valley and BTSD. The once-a-year business meeting will bring together ministers, BCA staff, delegates and boosters representing the nearly 60 temples. Approximately 200 delegates are expected to attend the meetings. The Southern District Council is serving as host district, while BTSD and the Vista Buddhist Temple are combining efforts as co-host temples. A new flair has been added to the meetings. A vision that Bishop Kodo Umezu would like to see take shape at future gatherings. The BCA, Center for Buddhist Education (CBE) and the Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS) has set up a variety of sessions that will encourage non-meeting delegates and curious minds from temples and community to attend. The IBS Symposium, Dharmathon talks featuring mini sermons from eight ministers, Friday evening workshops and an informational vendor fair will headline the activities Thursday through Saturday. A banquet will culminate four days of activities. IBS SYMPOSIUM (Thursday, Feb. 26, 1:00 to 4:30 p.m.): Buddhism and Counseling is the topic for the symposium. It will feature Dr. Daijaku Kinst, head of the Chaplaincy program and IBS; Dr. David Pating, Psychiatrist with Kaiser, and Minister s Assistant at the San Francisco Buddhist Church; Dr. Carmela Javellana Hirano, Psychiatrist and creator of SHIN (Sanctuary for Healing and Integration) and Minister s Assistant at the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple; Dr. Robert Weitzel, SHIN staff member; David Black, SHIN counselor; and Dr. David Hirohama, Clinical Psychologist and counselor for the Orange County Buddhist Church Mindfulness Center. DHARMATHON (Feb. 27 and 28, 2:00 to 4:30 p.m.): Ministers representing their respective districts will provide 15 minute Dharma talks. On Friday, the speakers include: Rev. Henry Adams (Bay), Rev. Alan Sakamoto (Central), Rev. Earl Ikeda (Eastern) and BTSD s former resident minister Rev. Yushi Mukojima (Coast). An E-polling texting workshop will follow. On Saturday the lineup includes: Rev. Diana Thompson (Mountain), Rev. Yuki Sugihara (Northern), Rev. Kojo Kakihara (Northwest) and our own Rev. Kenji Akahoshi. Three breakout sessions will occur following the last Dharma talk. You will have the opportunity to choose among What can the BCA do for you, Dharma Discussion based on the E-Polling workshop or a panel discussion with Young Leaders of Today (YLT). INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOPS (Friday, Feb. 27, 7:30-9:30 p.m.): Four activities will run simultaneously on Friday evening and will include EcoSangha, BCA Archives, Endowment Foundation and Ministerial Affairs. ACTIVITIES DURING MEETINGS (9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.): Check out the informational vendor tables, shop at the BCA Bookstore and SDDSTL Hongwanji Place, observe the meeting to see how BCA operates. BANQUET/ENTERTAINMENT (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.): On Saturday evening, the BCA will conclude its activities at the hotel with a dinner. Distinguished guests will be recognized, along with special presentations. Entertainment will have a San Diego flavor that will include singing by Stacy Yamamoto and David Squires, and accompanied by Robert Yamamoto. Sharon Sasaki will lead the Dharma School students with a song. BTSD and Vista Taiko will rock the house. More entertainment is being confirmed. The fee for attending the banquet is 50. There will be several dinners to choose from. Please sign up and make your reservation by Feb. 15. MARCH 1 ACTIVITIES: The scene shifts from the hotel to the temple where the annual BCA Eitaikyo Service will take place starting at 10 a.m. Many of the BCA ministers and lay leader delegation will be in attendance. The English Dharma message will be presented by Rev. Patricia Usuki (San Fernando Hongwanji Buddhist Temple). Rev. Koho Takata (Los Angeles Betsuin) will deliver the Japanese message. Prior to the service, the San Diego and Vista Jr. YBA group will conduct a breakfast fundraiser from 8 to 10 a.m. Donation is 8 and the menu includes miso soup, steamed rice, scrambled eggs, sausage, tsukemono and fruit. Jr. YBA members are selling tickets. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Now, here is a good excuse for the Sangha to be a part of the BCA s national meetings. Assistance will be needed with transportation, hospitality, on-site registration, hotel greeters, and general arrangements. If you have time to assist us during the weekdays and weekends, I hope that when asked, that your response will be Yes! I can help! Kenji Sensei calls the BCA National Council Meeting the Super Bowl of BCA. It is an experience that one should not pass up. The last time San Diego was privileged to host the event was in The planning committee is working diligently to help facilitate the needs of the BCA. BTSD will have responsibilities including hospitality, transportation, booster activities and general arrangements. For more information regarding the National Council meetings, please contact Ralph Honda at (619) or by at rkhonda205@gmail.com. Informational materials including complete schedule and NCM updates can be found at the temple. I highly encourage the Sangha to take advantage and participate in as many of the activities as possible. Expand the Experience it will truly be an eye-opening event as we all absorb the activities of the Dharma through the words of the 2015 BCA theme Live a Real Life. In Gassho, Ralph Honda, General Chairperson

7 BUDDHIST TEMPLE 0F SAN DIEGO Buddhist Women s Association 2929 Market Street, San Diego, CA (619) BTSD BWA Membership Invitation The BTSD Buddhist Women s Association is a Jodo Shinshu organization created to help sustain the well-being of our temple, by supporting the various temple activities throughout the year, while also encouraging the sisterhood of Buddhist women of ALL ages. Whether you are already affiliated with Dharma School, Sangha Teens, Jr./Sr. YBA, YABA, or none, as Buddhist women, we share a common bond. Please consider joining/re-joining our group this year. We have many exciting activities planned, such as Qigong, crafts, parties, as well as exchanges with other temples. We hope that you will take part in them at any level you wish. Membership is 10 per year. If you would like to join us, please fill out the form below and return it to the temple office. We sincerely hope that you will consider becoming a member. It is a way to benefit both the temple through your dana, and yourself, while having fun too! Membership Information: Name: Address/City/Zip: Phone: (Home) (Cell) Birthdate: Service/involvement options: - I am willing to join, and be called on a regular basis, by being assigned to a group (toban). - I am willing to join, and help only on special occasions (dinners, fundraisers). - I would like to support the BWA by joining, but will not be able to volunteer at this time. - I cannot join at this time, but would like to support the BWA by making a donation of.

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9 BUDDHIST TEMPLE OF SAN DIEGO Membership Pledge for 2015 Renewal New Member* Sponsorship* Change of Address Mr. Mrs. Ms. NAME: BIRTHDATE: Mr. Mrs. SPOUSE NAME: BIRTHDATE: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP: PHONE: ( ) CELL PHONE: ( ) WORK PHONE: ( ) OCCUPATION: Membership Pledge: The temple has an annual campaign to raise funds that go towards the Operating Budget. This budget pays for ministerial salary, part-time staff, programs, utilities, maintenance and the day-to-day expenses of running the temple. This tiered membership offers members the opportunity to choose their level of donation. Sponsorship Pledge: Individuals are invited to sponsor a new or existing member under the current membership program. Individual / Senior / Youth (All Ages) Couple / Family Optional: Senior Reduced Cost (75 years and older) Optional: Youth Reduced Cost (30 years and younger) Sustaining Dana Wisteria Bodhi Member Member Member Member Recommended Annual Donations (Optional): FLORAL OFFERING FUND (Suggested annual donation of 40)... This fund helps defray cost of regular fresh flowers for the Onaijin (Central Altar). GENERAL MAINTENANCE FUND (Suggested annual donation of 40)... The fund helps provide upkeep of the Temple properties. SCHOLARSHIP FUND (Suggested annual donation of 20)... The fund rewards members deserving high school graduates and college students. DHARMA SCHOOL (Suggested annual donation of 20)... Dharma School does not conduct fundraisers. Your annual donation helps sustain its activities. KITCHEN COMPLIANCE PROJECT... TOTAL AMOUNT (Membership Amount) AMOUNT ENCLOSED *PLEASE INDICATE PAYMENT SCHEDULE: Annually Semi-annually Quarterly Monthly To use credit card: Visa MasterCard Acct# Expires (MM/YY) / Authorized signature (if charging): Billing address (if different from above): Zip Please make checks payable to the BUDDHIST TEMPLE OF SAN DIEGO. A percentage of your dues support the Buddhist Churches of America and is remitted annually to the BCA via the Temple. Benefits include a year s subscription to the BCA publication, Wheel of Dharma and a printed copy of our monthly newsletter, the Bussei Script. THANK YOU! Mailing address to send your pledges: Buddhist Temple of San Diego 2929 Market Street San Diego, California For any questions about membership, please call the Temple at or send inquires to the Membership Chair at info@btsd.net. *For NEW MEMBERS and SPONSORSHIPS, proration is available.

10 婦人会二月会報レポート １ 一月十三日 水 行はれた手芸教室は 楽しいものであっ た 参加は食事を頂きながら笑い 手には手芸で忙しかった ２ 二月手芸の日 二月二十一日 土 午前十時 ３ 手芸用に ハーフギャロンの紙ミルクカートン 紙歯ブラシ箱を持参下さい ４ ２０１５年仏婦役員就任式が報恩講法要の日行はれた 会長 森部スーザン 副会長１ 富山あきえ 副会長２ グレーバ きく 書記 梶田順子 通信書記 ホームページ 山口 マニ マスター 会計 米倉スーザン 宗教 松本アリス 元会長 大原文子 相談 赤星開教使夫妻 ５ 役員を希望される方は 森部まで連絡下さい ６ 一月十七日 仏婦新年宴会 一月十八日 仏教会新年宴会 で 余興に歌手ペギイ リイの 私は女性 我々は 仏教婦人会員 仏教会会長鳥尾グレーンさんが女性姿で演 奏に参加され喜ばれた ７ 一月十一日 日 ハスピタリティ茶菓は 当番A,B 三月二十九日 日 ハスピタリティ茶菓は 当番C,D ８ 昔婦人会大会で着用したバラ色のハッピを持っている方で もう利用されない方は そのハッピを森部までいただけませ んか ９ ２月８日 日 午前９時 仏婦追悼会ならびに九条武子夫人 法要 １０ ４月１４日 土 午前１０時から正午まで 気功 健康法 民間体育 中国からの伝統療法 講師 内藤マス氏 １１ 婦人会ウエブサイト southerndistrictbwa.weebly.com １２ 二月一日会議当番 B 茶菓接待

11 B W A P R E S E N T S Qigong Workshop with Masanori Naito, Japanese Qigong teacher/practitioner chi (energy) *Date: Saturday, March 14, 2015 *Time: 10:00 a.m. 12 noon *Place: Buddhist Temple of San Diego Annex Hall *Suggested 10 donation gratefully accepted. gong (cultivation) *Cultivating energy & healing through gentle, easy movement. FEBRUARY SHOTSUKI HOYO (Feb. 1); NIRVANA DAY, BWA & LADY TAKEKO KUJO MEMORIAL SERVICES (Feb. 8); BCA MEETINGS (Feb. 25-March 1) The February Shotsuki Hoyo (monthly memorial service) will be observed on Sunday, February 1 in conjunction with the Dharma School and Family Service at 10 a.m. Shotsuki Hoyo is an opportunity to remember family members and friends who passed away during the month of February. The Buddhist Women s Association (BWA) will have their annual Memorial Service to commemorate Lady Takeko Kujo, and BWA members who have passed away on Sunday, February 8, at 9 a.m. Following the memorial service, the temple will conduct its Nirvana Day Service (Nehan-E) at 10 a.m. Nirvana Day commemorates the death of Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical Buddha, at age 80. Our guest speaker will be Rev. Carol Himaka of the Southern Alameda Buddhist Temple. Rev. Himaka will also be giving a Special Dharma lecture on Saturday, February 7 at 7 p.m. in the Sangha Hall. The 2015 BTSD Board of Directors will be installed during the service. The Buddhist Temple of San Diego will be the co-host temple for this month s annual Ministers Association and National Council Meetings. Details on the event inside. An envelope is enclosed if you would like to make a Nirvana Day offering. For those who subscribe to the Bussei Script online, we invite your Nirvana Day donation. As always, the Temple looks forward to your participation and is very grateful for your support.