70th Anniversary Celebration Konko Mission of Wahiawakonkomissionshawaii.org/Wahiawa70thBooklet.pdf · Konko Mission of Wahiawa 70th Anniversary 48 ... Hugh 79) Noguchi, Jean 80)

Konko Mission of Wahiawa 70th Anniversary 48

Konko Mission of Wahiawa 207 Muliwai Avenue

Wahiawa, HI. 96786

Phone & Fax: (808) 621-6667

E-mail: [email protected]


70th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Konko Mission of Wahiawa


Tenchi Kane No Kami ~Divine Parent of the Universe~

Ikigami Konko Daijin ~Divine Mediator~

Pray sincerely,

With all your heart

Be one with Kami.

Kami’s blessings begin within

Hearts grateful and caring,

In harmony and joy.

Look to Kami always,

Now and forever.

On this very day, pray.


Attendees

1) Abe, Colette 2) Abe, Merle 3) Dela Cruz, Donovan (Rep)

(Councilmember) 4) Fujita, Minnie 5) Fukawa, Amy 6) Fukushima, Patsy 7) Furusho, Alex 8) Furusho, Nicholas 9) Furusho, Randy 10) Gombio, Elmay 11) Gombio, Jason 12) Gombio, Kamryn 13) Greenhouse, George 14) Greenhouse, Jerilyn 15) Hayaba, Daichi 16) Hayaba, Mitsue 17) Hayaba, Rev. Nobuyuki 18) Hayaba, Rev. Satoko 19) Harano, Takashi 20) Higuchi, Flora 21) Higuchi, Kay 22) Higuchi, Keihiro 23) Higuchi, Paula 24) Hirota, Doreen 25) Ikejiri, Rev. Aiko 26) Ikejiri, Katsumi 27) Ikemoto, Kazunori 28) Ikemoto, Michie 29) Ikemoto, Misato 30) Ikemoto, Rev. Hiroe 31) Ikemoto, Rev. Keiko 32) Ikemoto, Rev. Shigeru 33) Ikemoto, Rev. Sumio 34) Inagaki, Rev. Seijiro 35) Inamoto, Masami 36) Indei, Elaine 37) Indei, Fumihiko 38) Isaki, Arthur 39) Isaki, Janelle 40) Isaki, Rayna 41) Kamahara, Nobuki 42) Katto, Violet 43) Kawahara, Shunichi 44) Kilousky, Scott 45) Kitahara, Atsuko 46) Kitahara, Kazunori 47) Kiyuna, Richard 48) Kiyuna, Shirley 49) Knuppel, Nanako 50) Knuppel, Kazuo 51) Knuppel, Christopher 52) Knuppel, Rev. Ichie 53) Knuppel, Robert

54) Kodama, Grace 55) Konko, Rev. Kōichi 56) Kunito, Rev. Kei 57) Kuroda, Momiye 58) Long, Andrea 59) Luke, Keith 60) Maesaka, Tomie 61) Manshō, Rene

(Former Councilmember) 62) Matsuki, Rev. Hiroki

(Church of Perfect Liberty) 63) Matsumoto, Rev. Irene

(Palolo Kwannonji Temple) 64) Matsunaga, Tsugumi 65) Mikami, Mae 66) Morihara, Gerald 67) Morihara, Hope 68) Morihara, Kary-Li 69) Morihara, Kelsey 70) Morihara, Stephanie 71) Morihara, Steven 72) Nagai, Rev. Makio 73) Ninomiya, Kayo 74) Ninomiya, Mitsuyo 75) Nishioka, Rev. Masanobu

(Honbushin Taiko Group Total: 13 members) 76) Noguchi, Edith 77) Noguchi, Edith Suzuyo 78) Noguchi, Hugh 79) Noguchi, Jean 80) Noguchi, Richard Y. 81) Ōhata, Nancy 82) Okazaki, Kyle 83) Okazaki, Marissa 84) Okuno, Rev. Setsuko 85) Onizuka, Masatoshi 86) Onizuka, Mitsuko 87) Ōya, Rev. Yomisu 88) Pangorang, Channon 89) Pangorang, Chason 90) Pangorang, Curtis 91) Pangorang, Elima 92) Pangorang, Emelita 93) Robertson-Aono, Leisha 94) Satō, Alvin 95) Satō, Bernice 96) Suwa, Jane 97) Suwa, Mitsuko 98) Takahashi, Raymond 99) Takahashi, Rev. Todd 100)Tamashiro, John 101)Tamashiro, Wanda 102)Taniguchi, Karen 103)Taniguchi, Masahiko 104)Thomsen, Mika 105)Thomsen, Samuel 106)Thomsen, Seth 107)Thomsen, Spencer 108)Toma, Sharon

109)Toma, Stacey 110)Tottori, Miriam 111)Toyofuku, Andrea 112)Toyofuku, Donna 113)Tsujimura, Yukie 114)Tsuyuki, Cheryl 115)Uchiyama, Carolyn 116)Uyeno, Momoe 117)Watanabe, Yayoi 118)Yabuki, Toshie 119)Yamamoto, Aiko 120)Yamamoto, Alyce 121)Yamamoto, Bruce 122)Yamamoto, Hamako 123)Yamamoto, Marsha 124)Yamamoto, Takeo 125)Yamamoto, Tommie 126)Yamanaka, Nancy 127)Yamanaka, Ronald 128)Yano, Jill 129)Yano, Renee 130)Yano, Rev. David 131)Yano, Rev. Edna 132)Yano, Rev. Megumi 133)Yano, Rev. Reiko 134)Yano, Rev. Rodney 135)Yano, Rev. Yasuhiro 136)Yasutake, Aimee 137)Yasutake, Judy 138)Yasutake, Rev. Akinobu 139)Yasutake, Rev. Hisayo 140)Yasutake, Rev. Mayumi 141)Yasutake, Rev. Michiyoshi 142)Yasutake, Rev. Mitsuko 143)Yasutake, Rev. Miyoko 144)Yasutake, Rev. Noriko 145)Yasutake, Rev. Roy 146)Yasutake, Rev. Sachiko 147)Yasutake, Rev. Takao 148)Yasutake, Rev. Tetsurō 149)Yoshino, Rev. Masahiko 150)Yoshino, Rev. Sugako *Booklet has been revised 3/16/10 *Printed at Aiea Copy Center, Hawaii


Memo


Program

9:00 a.m. -Registration 10:00 a.m. -Opening Remarks by MC: Mr. Randy Furusho

Procession of the officiating ministers Kaichō (Opening of the altar curtains)

Hairei (Clap 4 times—solemn greetings) Ōnusa Purification Rite

Mediation Prayer Purification Prayer Kami Prayer Forwarding of the offerings to the altar Main Saishi by Chief Officiant: Rev. Michiyoshi Yasutake Tamagushi Offering by Chief Officiant Tamagushi Offering by representatives and special guest Tamagushi Offering and recognition of dedicated church members 80+ years Recitation of the Divine Reminder (Tenchi Kakitsuke) Adoration Prayer Shintoku Sanji Hairei (Clap 4 times—solemn acknowledgements) Recession of the officiating ministers

-Kibimai Offering by Ms. Renee Yano & Ms. Hope Morihara, Koto: Rev. Edna Yano -Rikkyo Shinden -Greeting by Rev. Michiyoshi Yasutake (Head minister of Amagi Church) -Greeting by Rev. Yasuhiro Yano (Head minister of Wahiawa Church) -Hymn: Shinjin no Eiko, Shinjin no Michi, Shining Shimmering Light -Tenchi Kakitsuke and Grace Before Meal

11:45 a.m. -Transfer to Dots in Wahiawa for reception 12:00 noon -Arrive at Dots in Wahiawa -Luncheon (Buffet) -Taiko performance by Honbushin Taiko Group -Konko Missions in Oahu Chorus Group (3 songs) 12:30 p.m. -Opening reception remarks by MC: Rev. Rodney Yano -Hawaii Pono'i by Mrs. Rene Mansho -Banzai by Rev. Masahiko Yoshino (Head Minister of Honolulu Church) 1:00 p.m. -Congratulatory Messages

Rev. Yasuhiro Yano (Head minister of Wahiawa Church) Rev. Michiyoshi Yasutake (Amagi Church) Mr. Donovan Dela Cruz (City Council) Mrs. Rene Mansho (Former City Council) Rev. Irene Matsumoto (Hawaii Conference of Religions for Peace) Rev. Yomisu Ōya (Konko Missions in Hawaii Center) 1-Minute messages by visitors from Japan

2:00 p.m. -Entertainment Skit: The Giant Turnip Karaoke: Spencer Thomsen, Mrs. Nancy Ohata, and Mrs. Violet Katto Hula: Kawaipunahele Other volunteers

2:45 p.m. -Konko Yūzaki Ondo (Bon Dance) 2:55 p.m. -Acknowledgements by Rev. Yasuhiro Yano 3:00 p.m. -Closing Remarks by MC—Aloha

Bus Schedule

0800- Bus arrives Honolulu Church

0810- Bus leaves Honolulu Church

0840- Bus arrives Waipahu Church

0850- Bus leaves Waipahu Church

0930- Bus arrives Wahiawa Church

1145- Bus leaves for Dots (5 min)

1515- Bus leaves Dots for WPH & HNL

1600- Bus arrives at Waipahu Church

1630- Bus arrives at Honolulu Church


Message from City and County of Honolulu

Councilmember Donovan M. Dela Cruz

For the last seven decades, leaders and members of the Konko Mission of Wahiawa have fostered and promoted peace throughout the community and served as a bridge to Japan. In this fast-paced technological world, the Konko Mission of Wahiawa has stayed true to ad-

dressing the spiritual needs of the people of Hawaii in practicing of the Konko faith.

I’d like to extend my sincere congratulations to the Konko Mission of Wahiawa on its 70th

Anniversary. Thank you for promoting strength through self-discipline, broad views, and

acceptance.

May we all learn from your discipline to create a more peaceful world.

With warmest aloha,

Donovan Dela Cruz


Special Acknowledgements

Ikigami Konko Daijin-Sama

Tenchi Kane no Kami-Sama For making everything possible

70th Anniversary Committee Members:

Revs. Yasuhiro, Reiko, David, Megumi and Edna

Yano, Mr. Randy Furusho, Ms. Alyce Yamamoto,

Ms. Doreen Hirota, Mrs. Chieno Hirota (Deceased),

Mrs. Mitsuko Suwa, Ms. Jane Suwa,

Mrs. Trisha Adkison

Master of Ceremonies:

Mr. Randy Furusho (Ceremony)

Rev. Rodney Yano (Reception)

Ceremony Officiants:

Rev. Michiyoshi Yasutake

Rev. Yasuhiro Yano

Rev. Koichi Konko

Rev. Makio Nagai

Rev. Tetsuro Yasutake

Rev. Setsuko Okuno

Rev. Hisayo Yasutake

Rev. Roy Yasutake

Rev. Todd Takahashi

Rev. David Yano

Rev. Rodney Yano

Kibimai Sacred Dance “Ametsuchi”

Ms. Hope Morihara

Ms. Renee Yano

Rev. Edna Yano (Koto)

80+ Members of the Church

Mrs. Mitsuko Suwa

Ms. Alyce Yamamoto

Mrs. Edith Suzuyo Noguchi

Mrs. Jean Noguchi

Mr. Yōji Noguchi

Ms. Betsy Tomie Maesaka

Chorus Members:

Rev. Mitsuko Yasutake, Rev. Todd Takahashi

Ms. Minnie Fujita, Mrs. Bernice Sato

Ms. Grace Kodama, Revs. Reiko & Edna Yano

The Giant Turnip Skit

Ms. Jane Suwa, Mr. Randy Furusho

Nicholas Furusho, Alex Furusho

Renee Yano, Revs. Reiko & Edna Yano

Karaoke

Spencer Thomsen, Mrs. Nancy Ohata, and

Mrs. Violet Katto

Hula Group

Rev. Mitsuko Yasutake, Ms. Jane Suwa

Ms. Cheryl Tsuyuki, Rev. Megumi Yano

Revs. Reiko & Edna Yano

Taiko Performance:

Honbushin International Center

Kiln firing of ceramic Konko crest

magnet favors

Rev. Tatsunori Kamiya

(Gedatsu Church of Hawaii)

Kanji calligraphy 「感謝」for

publication cover and favor labels

Mrs. Mika Thomsen

Flower and stage arrangements:

Mrs. Violet Katto & Mrs. Nancy Ohata and others

Japanese/English translation:

Rev. Yasuhiro Yano

Publication:

Rev. Edna Yano

*List has been revised 3/14/10


Memory Pics of Rev. Hiromichi Ishii’s Times

(L) KMH Joint Convention hosted at Wahiawa Church (R) Rev. & Mrs. Hiromichi Ishii with Mrs. Kaneshige and Mrs. Shio Harada

Memory Pics of Recent Times


Reverend Yasuhiro Yano

Head Minister


Congratulations on the 70th Anniversary of the Konko Mission of Wa-

hiawa. I believe that the greatest rewards I have enjoyed as resident

minister of this local church in Wahiawa is the presence of the church congregation who have continued their dedication for the last 70 years, with the late Rev. Haruko Takahashi as our founding minister. I am especially overwhelmed with awe in witnessing the spiritual develop-ment of some of the church members who contributed their testimoni-als for the 70th Anniversary booklet. I can clearly identify that they

have been receptive of the Konkokyo teachings that have been related

for all these years. There could have been no better reward to have those church members who have been integrating the teachings of the Konko faith in their faith life. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Konko-Sama, Tenchi Kane no

Kami-Sama and all the people who have enabled us to continue our missionary work for all these years.

Although this church may be little in size and membership; the transformation of the con-gregation into true Konkokyo believers is by far the greatest thing to be thankful for. True believers can lead to a solid growth of the church congregation. Having core church believ-

ers is the most essential for the expansion of the faith community.

The interesting thing about practicing the Konko faith is that we do not just follow the min-

ister blindly, but we find out our own way of defining what faith practice is all about. Each

individual is like a faith-tree, in which the believer has every potential to thrive.

The teaching relating to the birth of a true believer is one of the teachings I cherish the most. “Everyone is now able to receive the blessings of Tenchi Kane no Kami because Konko Daijin received divine blessings first. If there is one true believer in a family, then all of the

family members will become believers. If there is one family in a village who truly believes in this faith, all of the villagers will begin to receive divine blessings. Practicing faith is like

one seed becoming ten thousand. Therefore, those who initiate faith should sow a good seed. If the seed is bad, it will be a bad start, and it will be difficult to raise, no matter how hard you try” (Gorikai III Jinkyukyogoroku 37).

It is my prayer, that we can positively address the spiritual needs of the people of Hawaii by

promoting the Konko faith, through better understanding the life and teachings of our Foun-der, Konko Daijin, and through the practice of Divine-Mediation for all matters. I also pray for continuous protection and guidance of Our Divine Parent, Tenchi Kane no Kami, as we stated in the Mission Statement of Konko Missions in Hawaii.


Reverend Michiyoshi Yasutake

Head Minister

Konko Church of Amagi

I would like to extend my sincere congratulations on the 70th Anniversary Celebration of

Konko Mission of Wahiawa. The 70th Anniversary Celebration of a local church in Wahi-awa is an actualization of the Divine-Mediation, which was initiated by the Founder, Iki-gami Konko Daijin and has been preserved by the generational Spiritual Head, namely, the Rev. Shijin Konko (2nd), the Rev. Setsutane Konko (3rd), the Rev. Kagamitaro Konko (4th)

and the Rev. Heiki Konko (5th) for the past 151 years.

The Founder Konko Daijin, developed a global vision for the religion in wanting to witness the Konko faith enlightening the globe.

Each of us, who believe in this faith shall have an obligation to live and pass on the faith

tradition to others.

I sincerely extend my prayer that the way to actualize mutual interdependent relationship between Our Divine Parent and the beloved child will prevail in the state of Hawaii hereaf-ter. 「金光教ワヒアワ教会布教70年おめでとうございます。教祖生神金光大神様、金光四神様、三代金光様、四代金光様、

現教主金光様と１５１年にわたる御取次のおかげを蒙り、ワヒアワ教会布教７０年記念祭を迎えさせていただきますこ

とは、誠に有り難いことです。教祖様はこのお道で世界を包みまわす大きな願いを持っておられました。

私たち一人ひとりが信心を現し、伝えて行かねばなりません。ハワイの地で『神人の道』が開かれるおかげを蒙られ

ますようお祈りいたします。」

安武道義金光教甘木教会長

Revs. Sachiko & Michiyoshi Yasutake


1996 10/1 -David Michio Yano (1st son of Rev. & Mrs. Yano) enters the Konko Church of Amagi, Japan

as a spiritual trainee.

-Konko Missions in Hawaii 70th Anniversary Celebration.

1997 10/18 -1st Konkokyo Chorus Group on Oahu established by Rev. Reiko Yano.

12/21 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi’s 25th Memorial Service.

1998 5/15 -David Yano enters the Konkokyo Gakuin Seminary.

1999 10/1 -Rodney Takashi Yano (2nd son of Rev. & Mrs. Yano) enters the Konko Church of Amagi,

Japan as a spiritual trainee.

6/10 -David Yano receives ordainment as a Konkokyo minister.

10/28 -Rev. David Yano returns to Hawaii after completing 3 years of spiritual training.

2000 3/12 -Wahiawa church celebrates its 60th Anniversary. Officiating minister:

Rev. Michiyoshi Yasutake (Head minister of Amagi Church). Reception: Dots in Wahiawa.

5/15 -Rodney Takashi Yano enters the Konkokyo Gakuin Seminary.

8/17 -5th Spiritual Head of Konkokyo Rev. Heiki Konko and his wife Mrs. Yaeko Konko visits the

Hawaii, in commemoration of the 100th Year Independence of Konkokyo.

10/4 -Edna Kazuko Yano (3rd child, daughter of Rev. & Mrs. Yano) enters the Konko Church of

Amagi, as a spiritual trainee.

2001 5/14 -Edna Yano enters the Konkokyo Gakuin Seminary.

6/1 -Rodney Yano receives ordainment as Konkokyo minister.

6/23 -Rev. David Yano marries Rev. Megumi Ikemoto (from Shiranuhi Church, Japan).

9/11 -Rev. Yasuhiro Yano elected as president of the Hawaii Conference of Religions for Peace.

2002 1/14 -Rev. Rodney Yano returns to Hawaii after completing 3 years of spiritual training.

2 -Rev. Rodney Yano moves to Konko Mission of Honolulu to help with church operations.

9/24 -Edna Yano receives ordainment as Konkokyo minister.

11/14 -Rev. Edna Yano returns to Hawaii after completing 2 years of spiritual training.

12/22 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi’s 30th Memorial Service.

2003 7/20 -Konkokyo International Youth Assembly Peace Prayer in Tokyo, Japan

(Revs. David, Rodney, Edna Yano and Ms. Maelani Soma attends representing Wahiawa).

2004 8/21 -Konkokyo International Youth Assembly Peace Prayer at USS Battleship Missouri

(Revs. David, and Edna Yano attend in ceremony).

8/31 -Rev. Rodney Yano moves to San Francisco to help with missionary work at the Konko

Church of San Francisco.

2005 -Rev. David Yano moves to Konko Mission of Honolulu to help with church operations.

2006 6/10 -1st Monthly Volunteer Activity at Wahiawa General Hospital Long Term Care Facility

Japanese program.

7/24 -Konkokyo International Youth Assembly Peace Prayer in South Korea. (Revs. Rodney and

Edna Yano attends).

2006 4/26 -1st invocation for Senate at State Capitol by Rev. Edna Yano.

2007 8/18 -Konko Missions in Hawaii 80th Anniversary Celebration.

2007 12/23 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi’s 35th Memorial Service.

2009 11/15 -150th Anniversary of the Konkokyo Religion. Pilgrimage to Gohonbu Headquarters by

(Revs. Reiko and Edna Yano attends)


Rev. Michiyoshi Yasutake (Head minister of Amagi Church). Reception: Dots in Wahiawa.


History of the Konko Mission of Wahiawa

1910 4/23 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi (Founder of the Konko Mission of Wahiawa) born in Kohala, HI.

1926 9/5 -Formation of Konkokyo Hawaii Mamichikai by Rev. Kokichi Katashima, who visited the

Konkokyo believers in Hawaii and the Mainland. The Mamichikai is a gathering of

Konkokyo believers who came as plantation workers from Japan.

1928 -Rev. Takahashi guided to the Konko Mission of Honolulu by her dressmaking instructor

Mrs. Kusunoki. Rev. Takahashi receives divine enlightenment from

Rev. Masayuki Kodama.

1929 8 -Konko Mission of Honolulu (Parent Church of Wahiawa) established.

1933 5/30 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi makes a pilgrimage to the Konkokyo Headquarters and Konko

Church of Amagi in Japan for spiritual training.

1934 5 -Rev. Takahashi enters into the Konkokyo Gakuin Seminary.

12/27 -Rev. Takahashi returns to Honolulu, Hawaii.

1935 10/23 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi ordained a Konko minister.

1940 1/14 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi establishes initial outreach mission on 901 Kilani Avenue and

begins missionary work.

1941 12/7 -Pearl Harbor attack and beginning of WWII. Rev. Takahashi detained by the US

government and sent to relocation camps at Sand Island and Honouliuli on Oahu.

1945 8 -Rev. Takahashi released from the internment camp.

1948 1/1 -Rev. Takahashi reopens the mission at the present site: 207 Muliwai Avenue, Wahiawa, HI.

1951 4/18 -The Konko Mission of Wahiawa incorporated as a church.

1963 9/2 -Rev. Takahashi makes her last pilgrimage to the Konkokyo Headquarters in Okayama.

1972 12/24 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi passes away at the age of 62.

1973 -Ms. Francis Takahashi (Rev. Haruko’s sister) temporarily takes care of the church.

3/30 -Rev. Hiromichi Ishii (Okuma Church, Japan) temporarily serves at the church while on

duty as a staff member of the Konko Missions in Hawaii.

1976 4/30 -Rev. Hiromichi Ishii completes his duties in Hawaii and returns to Japan.

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Takahashi (Rev. Haruko Takahashi’s brother) takes care of the church

till September 1977.

1977 9/28 -Rev. Yasuhiro and Mrs. Reiko Yano arrives in Honolulu to take care of the Konko Mission

of Wahiawa. (Arrives in Hawaii 9/27/1977).


Rev. Fumio Yasutake (Head minister of Amagi Church).

1983 10/10 -100th Memorial Service for the Founder of Konkokyo, Ikigami Konko Daijin-Sama at the

Konkokyo Headquarters in Okayama.

1985 8/24 -Mrs. Reiko Yano receives ordainment as Konkokyo minister.

1990 3/11 -Wahiawa church celebrates its 50th Anniversary. Officiating minister: Rev. Fumio

Yasutake (Head minister of Amagi Church). Reception: Dots in Wahiawa.

8/28 -1st Volunteer Activity at Wahiawa General Hospital LTCF (quarterly visits)

1992 12 -1st Mochi Pounding activity at the church.

12/20 -Rev. Haruko Takahashi’s 20th Year Memorial Service.

1993 8 -1st issue of Wahiawa Konko Mission Children’s Newsletter published.


Reverend Masahiko Yoshino

Head Minister

Konko Mission of Honolulu

I would like to extend my warmest congratulations on the 70th Anniversary Celebration of Konko Mission of Wahiawa.

When I extend my thoughts for the Konko Mission of Wahiawa, one of the most compelling elements is the fact of all three children of the Revs. Yasuhiro and Reiko Yano have

emerged as Konko ministers in Hawaii despite substantial barriers of language and cultural

differences between Japan and Hawaii. In witnessing the perseverance, endeavor of the resident ministers and the emergence of the local oriented young ministers, I am convinced

that the determined prayers and endeavor we hold will surely be answered. I understand that Our Divine Parent seems to grant more blessings than what we ask for.

I sincerely extend my sincere prayer that the Way of Ikigami Konko Daijin will prevail in the local community in Wahiawa, and the state of Hawaii hereafter.

Revs. Masahiko & Sugako Yoshino


Reverend Yomisu Oya

Director

Konkokyo Hawaii Center

I am grateful that we expressed our appreciation to Tenchi Kane

No Kami and to the spirits of our predecessors during the 70th Anniversary of the Konko Mission of Wahiawa.

Having received the Divine Call 150 years ago, our Founder started the Mediation in Japan. Since then, people were saved, this Faith spread, and churches were established all over the

world.

The late Reverend Haruko Takahashi believed in Kami. She es-tablished the Konko Mission of Wahiawa in 1940. She planted

the seed of Faith in this foreign land where the natural environment and culture were quite

different from those of Japan. Much of her hard work is beyond our imagination.

Especially after the attack of Pearl Harbor, Konkokyo missionary work was prohibited. She was relocated to a concentration camp in Oahu. The fact that she managed somehow to sus-tain her faith in spite of the various bitter experiences of this grim time in world history played an exemplary role in laying the foundation of our present Konko Faith in Hawaii.

I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our predecessors. At the same time, I would like to express our appreciation to the Revs. Yasuhiro and Reiko Yano and their family,

who served for the people of Hawaii. I also express our great joy to all of you, to all who are celebrating this memorable service, and to all who have been working so hard to spread our

Faith in Hawaii.

I offer my sincerest prayer for the Konko followers at the Konko Mission of Wahiawa and pray for their steady growth and development, and for their boundless happiness and pros-perity.

Thank you. Aloha.


Memory Pics During Haruko Sensei’s Times

(L) Rev. Haruko Takahashi spending some time with the Rev. Kikue Kodama during her youth. (C) Enrolled in Gakuin Seminary. (R) In robes

Grand Ceremony Fellowship Dinner after the Ceremony (In the Church Hall)

Back then, everyone sat on the goza mats in the worship hall, instead of chairs Rev. Haruko Takahashi serving at the Okekkai


約５年前にサンフランシスコに移って、私にとっては、とてつもない成長の機会を与えられました。それで、以前より

余ほど、豊かな人間にならせて頂いたような気がします。しかし、折々、もう尐し歩みを緩めて生きざるを得ない状況

が生まれ、その事柄に思いを寄せ、自分がどこから来たのかを考えさせられます。驚いたことに、ほんの僅かな祈りと

お礼を申すことで、神様はいつも良いように働いてくださいます。北米での生活が長くなればなる程、ハワイ、そこに

住んでいる人々、そして、勿論、ハワイの食べ物、により一層心が募ります。うーん、今まさに懐かしい味を思い出し

ます。広田さんのマカロニ・サラダ、バースデイサンデーに頂いた諏訪さんのケーキ、野口さんのコッテージ・チーズ

ジェロ、いくらでも思い出します。この教会で兄妹、友達と過ごしたことを思い出してたくさんの古き良き頃の（もう

自分は年をとっていると思える）貴重な思い出が懐かしくなります。教会の周りで、鬼ごっこをしたり、即席のジャン

プ台で自転車を乗り回したり、近所中探しまくってトカゲを捕まえたり、とってもいい時代でした。一つこの教会に期

待したいことは、ワヒアワ教会がこれから先、ずーと繁栄していくことです。今日ここに、こうしてあるワヒアワ教会

を支えて下さっている神様や皆様の祈りや援助に尽きぬ感謝を捧げます。再び、おめでとうございます、そして、あり

がとうございます。

感謝は大切な要

矢野エドナ和子

金光教ワヒアワ教会布教７０年大変おめでとうございます。私の心の中では、１００年記念祭と思って迎えさせて頂い

ています。ワヒアワの記念祭を迎えさせて頂く度に、「こんなに小さな教会なのに、よく記念祭が使えさせて頂ける

なぁ。」と思います。この小さなワヒアワの街のファミリーチャーチがこんなに長い間存在し続けていることが本当に

不思議なくらい驚きです。そして、住宅地にひっそり存在しているので、人々はここに教会があることさえ気付かない

場合もあります。しかし、ここに金光教ワヒアワ教会があると、知っている人々は、本当におかげを頂ける場所がここ

にあるのだとわかっている人々です。

私は、お取次の働きをして下さる生神金光大神様、天地金乃神様、そして教会家族（オハナ）に関わっている、教師、

教会の信者、友達、そしていつまでも支えて下さっている御霊様にお礼を申し上げます。そして、その他、多くの金光

教ワヒアワ教会布教のことを祈ってくださってある人々にもお礼を申し上げます。皆様のおかげでこの教会が存在して

いるのです。

３６５日、年中無休、たとえ夜中であろうが、お届けの電話にお答えする教師がいます。私は、親が信心を実生活に活

かしているのを見てきました。真夜中に電話でお届けがあれば、すぐに着物に着替え、ご神前に行き、電話があった人

のことを神様に祈ります。時にはそれが、信者の方が亡くなられたとの報であったり、子供が無事に誕生したとの報で

あったりします。どのような電話であれ、お届けの内容であれ、両親はその内容を真摯に受け止め、生神金光大神様の

お取次ぎを通して、天地金乃神様にお届けします。両親は私の偉大な精神的師匠です。あの、「Rev.」私の名前の前

についているタイトルは、別に自慢するためのものではありません。それは、金光教が私の命の芯であるという証であ

り、なんとしてでも神様にお仕えさせて頂きたいとの証でもあります。

私は、高校を卒業してそのまま、金光教甘木教会に修行に入りました。ただ、二人の兄の通った道をそのまま通ったの

です。二人の兄がすばらしく変身するのを見ました。それだから、二人が通って道は確かなものであると確信いたしま

した。私も岡山の御本部にある金光教学院に行きました。修行の為に２年間日本で過ごしました。まだ心が柔軟で、金

光教の本質を捉えることが出来たことは本当にありがたいと思っています。日本で体験した数々の精神的エピソード

は、目を見張るようなことばかりでした。実は、私が生まれる前から、どっぷりと金光教に浸っていたのです。信心が

わかれば分かるほど、ますますその面白さがわかります。今日まで、ずーっと、金光教に浸って来ましたが、毎日のよ

うに信心についての事柄の発見があります。

「感謝」で金光教ワヒアワ教会が誕生しました。「感謝」があることでこの金光教ワヒアワ教会の７０年記念祭を祝う

ことが出来るのです。「感謝」はこれから先の１０年、５０年、１００年そして永遠に続いていくための無くてはなら

ない、大切な要です。


Autobiography of the Late Reverend Haruko Takahashi

Founding Minister of the Konko Mission of Wahiawa (Translated from the article written for publication marking her gradua-

tion from the Konkokyo Theological School, “Kokyusho” in 1934)

I was born at Kohala located at the Island of Hawaii, the United

States of America (on April 10, 1910). I had a visual disorder from childhood. The doctor told me that when I reach the age of 15 to 16, I had to undergo a surgery to correct the wrong. I suffered both from nearsightedness and crossed-eyes. My eyes looked just like the bulging eyes of a dead fish. When I tried to

see things and tried to read books, I had to bring my face very close to the items. When I

enrolled at school, I related my visual disorder to my instructors. They provided special

attention and care for my needs. When I extended my thoughts for the people who showed great concerns and sympathies to me, I always felt depressed and complained. I felt over-

whelmed with the thoughts of suicide every day till the age of 15 because of the situation.

At the age of 16, I went to see an eye doctor. He told me that he could not operate on my

eyes. If the eyes were operated, the condition could become more serious. He advised me that the cause of the defects should be identified first and find ways to correct them. Through extended examination, the doctor found out that I also had some irregulari-ties in my nose and tonsils. A corrective surgery was done to the area, and the doctor gave

me shots for one month. But there was little improvement at all. The only way I could cope with the situation was to hide the irregularities by putting on eyeglasses.

At the age of 17, I took a sewing class. Since I could hardly advance my skills, I tried to extend my earnest prayers for the improvement through Oyakushi-Sama single-heartedly. My parents who were also concerned about me joined me in extending prayers

for the deity. Also, I tried to avoid fish and meat during meals for about one year. I could only observe my own eating habit at my residence alone. When I was invited to a meal at

the house of my sewing instructor, she noticed my irregular eating habits of avoiding fish

and meat and asked me why I was following such a meal restriction. I revealed that it was

for the purpose of healing my visual disorder through faith involvement in Odaishi-Sama and Oyakushi-Sama. Then she advised me by saying, “Would you mind to get involved in the religion I practice?” I asked her, “What kind of religion is it?” She told me, “I believe in the Konkokyo religion, which worships both Tenchi Kane no Kami and Ikigami Konko Daijin.” She also shared with me many blessed episodes of her involvement in the religious

practice.

That evening, she took me to attend the Konko Mission of Honolulu. I believe it could be a deep divine arrangement for me. On that particular evening, the monthly service was in


progress, and the minister was delivering a sermon. While I was listening to him, I felt un-derstood that I had committed grave irreverence against Kami without my knowledge in the

past. I felt overwhelmed with the feeling of extending my apologies for the wrongs I had

committed unknowingly. The following day, I attended church and listened to the minis-ter. My initial response to the messages I received from the minister was that I shed my tears in awe for the great divine work of the earth which I had not been aware of at all till that moment in life. At that moment, I felt a ray of the sunlight penetrated into my eyes. From that day on, my visual condition became improved drastically. I was over-whelmed with the feeling of joy, happiness and gratefulness for the apparent blessing and

shed tears.

In one week, my vision returned to normal. I was liberated from the visual irregularities. I wrote this matter to my parents. They didn't pay much attention to my statement. At one

time, I had an opportunity to travel (to the Big Island) and returned home. The moment they witnessed me, they exploded their feeling of happiness and shed tears in grateful-

ness. I shared many blessed episodes of the Konko faith involvement with the family mem-bers. The family members all understood the grateful nature of the faith and have tried to pursue the faith altogether. Through great blessings I have enjoyed, I am overwhelmed with the feeling of thankfulness and gratefulness that I have enrolled at the Konkokyo Ko-

kyusho Seminary in this manner through deep divine arrangement.

Mr. & Mrs. Zenji Takahashi and Family.

Rev. Haruko Takahashi in center

Rev. Haruko Takahashi delivering a sermon

During Grand Ceremony


の意味の有難さを深く深く感じるようになったのは、ずっと後のことでした。御本部では、主人の兄の現岩谷教会長の

稲垣誠二郎師がお見送りに来て下さり、その後来布以来３３年間信心の交流を続け、御家族挙げて私達の布教を親身に

なってお祈り添え下さいました。そして、主人が東京在学中に大変お世話になった常盤台教会に参拝、三宅美智雄師

は、御神米に、「有難きこの思し召いつまでも忘れずに行け人助けの道」とのメッセージをお下げになりました。そし

て、当時世界宗教者平和会議に深く関わり、他宗教との交流を推進されていた三宅先生のおかげで、現在のHCRPハワ

イ宗教者平和会議が設立されました。そして、主人が、活動の場を与えられ今日にいたっています。

そして、現甘木教会長夫人の安武幸子先生や、たくさんの共に入学した金光教学院生がハワイへの出発を祝福、激励し

て下さいました。もちろん両親兄弟のお祈り添えはすごいものでずっとずっと今日まで続いています。私達がハワイに

来ました時にはハナペペ教会長の奥野庄市師がハワイ教務所長でした。師は私達の来布にとてもご尽力下さいました。

ワヒアワ教会はホノルル教会の出社です。初代児玉正行師はすでにお国替えになっておられましたが、２代教会長児玉

喜久恵親先生はご健在であられました。児玉喜久恵親先生は私の母のように優しく、心細やかに、お祈り添え、ご教導

頂きました。

若干２６歳の私は信心がわかっているつもりでも、今思うと、何もわかっていなかったことが良くわからされます。こ

んな私にワヒアワ教会のご信者の方々は、ずっとついて来て下さいました。私が「信心辛抱」させて頂くのではなく、

実は、周りの方々が「信心辛抱」してくださったのだろうなと、今深く反省させられます。

ワヒアワ教会は本当に家族のような教会です。大きな教会ではないけれども、「何かしょう」としたら、「それー！」

とみんな集まってきて色々な活動が出来させて頂いています。みんな、「有難い、有難い、この金光様が有難い」と

言ってくださいます。御信者の中には、５代続いて参拝される方もおられます。

私達は、おかげの中で２男１女の子供を授かりました。私達がハワイに来る前に修行をさせて頂いた金光教甘木教会に

高校卒業と同時にそれそれ甘木の教会に入所、それぞれ、長男次男は、3年、長女は2年間、なにもかもお世話になり通

して信心のお育てを頂きました。

甘木教会はすばらしいところです。子供たちを無条件で受け入れて下さり、お育て頂きました。日本から帰ってきた3

人は見違えるように精神的に高められて帰って参りました。今、長男はホノルル教会で、次男はサンフランシスコ教会

で、長女はワヒアワ教会で御用のおかげを頂いています。

私達の３人の子供がそれぞれ甘木教会でお世話になり金光教学院も出させて頂き教師としてお取立て頂いていること

が、私にとってはなによりの希望であり、喜びです。

私は年を重ねるのが楽しみです。通常、人は「私の年齢のこと聞かないで下さい」とか、「失礼ね、人に年をきくの

は」などと言って気分を害する人がいます。私は反対です。私は今５８歳ですが、この５８年間おかげの中でなにもか

も恵まれて命があり続けているのですから、喜んで年齢を言います。ひょとしたら、子供の頃に死んでいたかも知れま

せん。私は神様に赤飯を炊いてお礼にお供えさせて頂きます。幸い、私の誕生日はいつも月例祭日でなんと有難いこと

でしょう。「私を生んでくださって有難う」と母にもいつも、お礼の電話をします。

４代金光様が、御晩年、「道の教えの有難さが身に沁みてわからせてもらえるようになりました」と述べておらてま

す。そして、私ももうすぐ６０代に近くなりました。金光教の信心を通して、このお道にご縁を頂いて入ることが本当

に身に沁みて有難くなっています。

甘木教会の現親先生はじめ、ハワイ教区、北米教区、本当にたくさんの方々の今日までのお祈り添え、お導き大変あり

がとうございます。今回の記念祭のテーマは「感謝」です。こうして書かせて頂いてみると、本当にお礼を申すことば

かりです。これからも、元気で御用に使って頂きたいと思わせて頂いております。

ほんの尐しのお礼

矢野ロドニー孝志

先ず、この金光教ワヒアワ教会に、教会オハナ（家族）に連なっている、教会の信奉者、それを支える人々、その他の

家族、友人に、おめでとうございます、と言いたいです。


二人ともドイツに帰り、その後、私はマセドニアに配備されました。その間、ジエイソンは仕事の内容を変えるために

再入隊しました。主人がバージニアに配備される前に一緒に生活できるように、尐し早めにドイツに帰ってきました。

２００１年９月１１日、私達は、ドイツの町で時を過ごしていました。翌日、主人がバージニアに行くので特別に一日

の休暇をもらい、映画を鑑賞しました。

映画を半分見終わる頃に、友達から電話でニューヨークで何かとんでもないことが起きたと知らせてくれました。その

内容は電話では話せないと告げ、私にすぐに仕事場に戻るように伝えてきました。緊急に映画館をでました。ドイツの

下町は異常に静かで、自分達の車に乗り込みました。急いで仕事に戻ると、警護の通常の８時間勤務に加えて、さらに

延長の１２時間勤務になってしまいました。混乱と悲しみの中で、主人は数日の内に去っていきます。本当に心配しま

した。

非常に疲れ病気になるかと思える程心配しましたが、主人のことを本気になってお祈りいたしました。やっと、無事に

バージニアに着いたとの知らせがありました。どれ程安堵したことでしょうか。数ヶ月ドイツにいて、後テキサスの

フォートフッドに移転しました。

子供が欲しいと思っても、軍隊が私達を別々にしてしまいます。大変フラストレーションを覚えましたが、祈る他あり

ませんでした。ようやく懐妊して、ジエイデンが２００３年３月に誕生しました。残念なことに、長男が５ヶ月の時に

私はイラクに派兵になりました。主人も派兵の準備をしていましたので、長男をハワイに連れて来る他にありませんで

した。結局、主人は私がイラクから帰るまでテキサスに留まる代わりに長時間の勤務を命じられました。それで、私が

イラクから帰るまで長男をハワイで面倒を見てもらうことになりました。私が、派兵されている間、長男のお世話をし

てくださったお母さん、祖母にお礼を申し上げます。

私は、派兵されている間どれ程金光様や私の御祖先が私を見守って下さっておったか、その有難さは、言葉では言い表

せません。数回、それこそ本当に命拾いをしたことがありましたが、恐怖は感じなかったです。心は常に平静で落ち着

いており、訓練されたように冷静に物事に対処することができました。自分の属している部隊が無事に帰ってこれたの

で本当に有難いです。イラクから帰ってすぐに、懐妊、ブライスが２００５年１月に誕生しました。二人の息子に恵ま

れ本当に有難く、子供と共に過ごすために軍隊から出たいと思いました。主人は現在でも軍隊におりますが、後９年も

すれば退役できます。現在、３度目のイラク派兵で勤務しています。すばらしい主人があり、金光様が派兵されている

主人を見守って下さってあることに感謝しています。

期限の延長が認められ、後一年ハワイに滞在することが出来るようになりこれも有難いと感謝しています。私が夜間学

校に通っている間、二人の子供の世話をしてくださっている家族の者にお礼を申しあげます。数多くのおかげを長年の

間に頂いていますことに心よりお礼を申しあげます。そして、親切で思いやりのある自分達の生活の一部になっている

人々を大切にしたいと思います。私の有難いと思う心を神様にお届けするには、子供たちを教会に参拝させ、私が得て

いる神様への信頼を子供たちにも習得させ、金光様や御祖先が自分達のことを見守ってくださり、正しい方向に導いて

下さると思えるようにすることが最高のお礼になると思います。

今日まで有難うございます

矢野礼子

金光教ワヒアワ教会布教７０年記念大祭真におめでとうございます。初代教会長高橋ハル子師が１９４０年１月１４日

にワヒアワの地に布教を開始されてより３２年間、そして、１９７２年１２月２４日にお国替えされた後は、高橋師の

ご兄妹が又、大隈教会の石井弘道師が数年間教務所の御用の続きとして、ワヒアワ教会におられました。１９７７年９

月２８日主人である現教会長と共に後継者としてこの、ワヒアワ教会に赴任させて頂いて、今年で３３年目にならせて

頂きます。

１９７７年９月、結婚式の翌日、主人と共に修行させて頂いていた金光教甘木教会を立たせて頂いたのですが、出発に

先立って前の親先生、安武文雄師は、御神米に「信心辛抱の徳」というお書き下げを下さいました。万感の深いお祈り

添えを感じました。途中、私自身を信心生活の根本からお導き下さった平尾教会へ参拝いたしました。丁度祭典中でし

たが、教会長芳野正人親先生始め、ご信者の方々が大きな声で「万歳」を三唱して激励して下さいました。

そして、金光教本部へ参拝。ハワイに立たせて頂くことを、当時、４代目教主金光鑑太郎様にお届けさせて頂きまし

た。金光様は、「命の芯の働き」と「今日までのお礼」という２つのお言葉をお下げになりました。主人は心に染み

入ったように、ワヒアワ教会での月例祭の度ごとに、この２つの言葉の意味を教えて下さっていました。私がこの言葉


Kami Prayer

Reverently we pray (Leader)

The brilliance of heaven,

the richness of earth

Time flows without cease,

years pass without end

In heaven and earth is the Life

that nurtures all

In heaven and earth is the Truth

that orders all

For this wondrous Form

For these wondrous Works

Let us praise Tenchi Kane no Kami

Let us praise Kami of heaven and earth.

Kami loves and cares for all ujiko

All those who live between

heaven and earth.

To revere Kami as the Parent Kami,

To live in Kami’s infinite blessings—

This is the Way.

Yet many, not knowing the Way,

Are lost in greed and selfishness.

They suffer the cycle of misfortunes—

Great is Kami’s sorrow.

Our Founding Father, Konko Daijin

Suffered many trials in this world,

But held fast to faith and sincerity.

He received Kami’s great blessing,

and began the life of mutual fulfillment

Of Kami and humanity.

Mediation Prayer

Let us seek the Mediation of Konko Daijin

with a pure and single heart,

each and every day.

May we receive the Mediation anew,

with all our hearts and souls, on this day,

this very moment.

Ikigami Konko Daijin Sama,

Ikigami Konko Daijin Sama

Ikigami Konko Daijin Sama,

Ikigami Konko Daijin Sama

Purification Prayer

Through the Toritsugi Mediation

May our sincere apologies

Be acceptable to Tenchi Kane no Kami,

Our Principle Parent of the Universe.

We acknowledge our mistakes and

misunderstandings,

Arrogance and negligence,

And ignorance of the divine favor.

Forgive us for our shortcomings,

And irreverence from the past generations.

Guide us to amend our way of life

Reflecting the Divine Will

With a pure and single heart.


Without regard for day or night, Whether we are near or far,

The way of Toritsugi teaches us To pray with total trust. For arrogance in living unaware of Divine

Favor, we beg forgiveness and pledge to mend our ways.

Let us live every day as an act of faith, Rejoicing in the vastness of Divine Favor. Let us care for those in pain

And invite them to the Way. Let us guide those who are lost

And awaken them to a life of purpose. “Kami is fulfilled in ujiko,

ujiko are fulfilled in Kami.”

May this Way of mutual fulfillment Be manifested in this world. May Kami’s wish for true peace And the wellbeing of all ujiko Be fulfilled.

So we humbly pray

So we earnestly pray.

Humbly we pray (Leader)

The Parent Kami’s great wish

was thus fulfilled:

Konko Daijin accepted the Call to Toritsugi

That leads to the mutual benefit

of Kami and ujiko.

By day he taught the Way of faith

To all who sought him,

Expounding the blessings of

heaven and earth

And he knew not the coming of night.

By night he prayed for those who grieved,

Seeking salvation for all who suffered

And he knew not the dawning of day.

Though years passed and the world changed

He did not waver from his task,

The divine task of Toritsugi.

Thus was given the sacred Tenchi Kakitsuke,

The guiding principle for our daily life.

The Divine Favor was thus renewed

And blessings flowed universally,

Establishing the way of eternal prosperity,

The Way of Toritsugi of

Ikigami Konko Daijin.

By this wondrous revelation,

We are given knowledge of the Way.

Through all the hardships of this world,

Through pain of body and soul,

The Way of Toritsugi teaches us

To turn our hearts to Kami.


年数が過ぎて、やがて矢野先生やエドナ先生のお話が英語でなされるようになりました。今のお説教は、前向きで、身

近な先生方が日常実際に関わった事柄を引き合いに出してお話されるので、自分達の生活に直接関連付けることができ

るので、有難いです。私達は毎週日曜日には教会に参拝いたします。そして、いつも新しい御教えを習います。教会の

お祭りから帰ると、幸せで、すがすがしい気分になり、又次の一週間を神様が見守ってくだされていると感じ、おかげ

で過ごされると思います。

今日までの時点で、金光教ワヒアワ教会には、義母の諏訪光子の両親、野口惣次郎、タマに始る５世代に渡る家族、諏

訪光子、息子の嫁諏訪ジェーン、私の娘アドキソン・トリシャ、その子供のジエイデン、ブライスが関わっています。

義母の諏訪光子は、「金光様のおかげで８８歳の誕生日を迎えさせて頂くことができ、とても元気です。７人の孫、８

人の曾孫に恵まれています。誰でもが、孫や曾孫に恵まれるわけではありません。毎晩休む前には、金光様家族の者み

ながおかげを頂いてありがとうございます。」とお礼を申しています。

私は義母である諏訪光子にこの教会に連れてきて下さり感謝します。私は、この教会に参拝し始めて３３年になりま

す。今では、私の孫、母にとっては曾孫にあたるジエイデン、ブライスも日曜日には参拝します。私はおかげを頂あり

がとうございますとお礼をします。金光様のおかげで、２人の娘と３人の孫、フィリップ（１４才）、ジエイデン（６

才、２０１０年３月１３日で７才）、ブライス（５才）に恵まれています。毎朝、仕事で家を出る時と、夜休む時に

は、「天地書附」を唱えます。毎日、家族の者がおかげで安心して生活ができ、健康であることのお礼を神様に御祈念

します。とにかく日曜日には教会に参拝させて頂いて、矢野先生とエドナ先生のお説教を聴き、何か有難い思いにな

り、教典ご理解を読み、みんなで揃って歌を歌おうと努めています。特に、「シャイニングシマリング」が好きです。

この歌は希望を与え、自分達は一人ではないのだよ、だから気高く生き、神様を信じようと呼びかけています。私は教

会に参拝させて頂くのが楽しみで、英語での教典ご理解を読ませて頂くと御教えがわかります。以前は御教えが全て日

本語で、私はほんの尐ししか日本語がわからなかったので、英語の御教えを聞いたり読んだりするようになり、わかる

ようになりました。私の孫は教会で誕生日のお祝いをしたり、折々の祝賀休日には手芸をしたりするのが楽しみです。

特に新年のパーティーが好きです。その時には、ゲームを楽しんだり、ランチを頂いたり、みんなでピンナタを叩いた

りして楽しみます。そして、毎年の干支の動物の絵をみんなで描きます。いつでも、イベントやなにかの催しがある時

には、朝起きたらすぐに、時間に間に合いますように、そして、車を駐車する場所がありますようにと、神様にお願い

します。実際その場に行って見ると、丁度駐車できる場所が目の前にあるので驚かされます。金光様に真摯に願えば願

いが適うと思います。私は他の宗教については知りません。神様に一心に願えば、金光様からおかげを頂けます。時に

は、即座に、時には、数日後に、しかし、おかげは必ず頂けます。私達の家族は矢野先生のご家族で御用をされてある

方々に、この教会で御用をお仕えになられ、私達一人一人のことを日々祈って下さってあることに、感謝いたします。

諏訪輝子Trisha

私は幼い頃より金光教ワヒアワ教会に参拝していました。毎日曜日に参拝するのが楽しみでした。振り返って見れば、

ローマ字で書いてある言葉が読めなかったらどうしょうと思い、みんなの前で教典ご理解を読むのは余り好きではあり

ませんでした。それでも、歌は好きでいつもサンデースクールを楽しみにしていました。サンデースクールに参加する

のは殆ど同年代の子供であり、仲良く楽しみました。

ずーと長年、私は母と祖母と共に教会に参拝しました。レイレフア高校を卒業後、陸軍に入隊しました。最初の任務地

はドイツでした。それは私のように自分一人で住んだことのない者にとっては、そして、丁度ワヒアワのような辺鄙な

ところにある小さな街で、本当にさびしい思いをしました。度々ホームシックになりましたが、家族からの手紙や電話

で安心を覚えました。矢野先生ご夫妻が私が行く先々教会誌を送って下さるので大変有難かったです。

私の主人ジエイソンアドキソンには、ドイツで出会いました。軍隊でのカップルによくある激しいロマンチックな出

会いでした。付き合って３ヶ月目には婚約し、法務官の前で結婚する予定をたてました。しかし、主人は私がホーム

シックであり、私の側に家族の者がだれもいない結婚式など考えられないと思っていることも知っていましたので、ハ

ワイに帰って結婚式を挙げようかと気遣ってくれました。勿論と即答しました。外出許可が出るまでに数ヶ月かかりま

したが、ハワイに帰って来ました。

私は何でも後回しにする癖があります。正念場でハワイの家族の者が助けてくれたので大変有難いと思っています。私

自身の弁護のために、ドイツのような遠い所にいてハワイでの結婚式を計画するなんてとても無理です。金光教ワヒア

ワ教会で日本式の結婚式を挙げるように準備してくれました。これ以上はない上天気に恵まれ、感動に包まれました。


白壁の教会の中のゴザの敷かれたお広前で尐なくとも６０名程のお年寄りがぎゅうぎゅうになって座布団に座っていま

した。教会に面したムリワイ街の両脇にはずらーっと車が止まっていました。中には、遠くに車を駐車して、長く歩い

てくる人もいました。教会の中からは日本語での祭典が仕えられていましたが、私にはさっぱりわかりませんでした。

祭典中、子供たちは、道路で遊び回っていました。丁度カーニバルのようで本当に賑やかでした。

女性の方々は、裏で祭典後の食事作りで大忙しでした。そのご馳走がいつも楽しみでした。子供ながら私と弟達は教会

で貴重な経験をしました。その頃はただ友達や家族のものと楽しく遊ぶことに夢中で、大きくなるまで信心のことにつ

いては殆ど無関心でした。しかし、金光教ワヒアワ教会布教にはたくさんの思い出があります。

感謝というテーマは私が金光教で習ったことを最も的確に表現していると思います。物を無くして始めてその無くした

ものの有難さに気付かされるようです。金光教は失う前に感謝することを教えてくれました。矢野先生御夫妻は、私が

教会に参拝させて頂くと何か大切なことを教えてくださいます。私が先生方から受け取った言葉は、後になって自分な

りに解釈し、自分自身の生活に融合させると、大変大きな意味を持ちます。それは私に物質的でない、ものの見方を教

えてくれます。いつでも教会を訪れると、静かで落ち着いた思いに浸ることができます。教会を出る時には、いつも元

気になり心ですがすがしい思いになります。

祖父祖母それに両親がこの宗教を選んでくださったことを大変幸運なことと思います。だから、その金光教のありがた

さを味わうことができるのです。７０年記念祭はもうそこまで来ています。神様、矢野先生の御家族のおかげで、この

祭典に参拝出来るだけの健康な気分になります。皆様に、特に矢野先生御家族に祝賀に合わせてお会い出来るのを心待

ちにしています。

おかあさん

広田順子ドリーン

私のおかあさん、広田ちゑのは、２００９年１１月１７日に、８６才で亡くなるまで一生懸命信心に打ち込んでいまし

た。今は、御霊の神として私達を見守ってくださっていると思います。おかあさんは本当に金光教や教会が好きでいつ

でも、どんなことでも、金光様と言っておすがりしていました。家族の者は、早くから金光教にご縁を頂いておりま

す。おかあさんはいつも、私たちに金光様にお願いしなさいと教えてくれました。

おかあさんは、ハワイ島ヒロで生まれ、ヒロ教会に参拝し、西田良房先生のお取次ぎを頂いていました。教会までの長

い道のりを歩いて参拝していました。ワヒアワに移り住むようになっては、同じようにワヒアワ教会に参拝を続けまし

た。おかあさんは、いつでも、毎日御神米を頂きなさい、そして御神米、お神酒に頼っていました。おかあさんは、す

てきな、すばらしい人でした。いつでも、家族の者のことを気に掛けておりました。おかあさんの金光教に対する信念

は強く、計り知れないものがありました。おかあさんは「一心」を生涯貫き通しました。

おかあさんがいなくなって、とってもさびしいです。けれども、おかあさんは、いつも私達のことを見守ってくださ

り、幸せを願っていると思います。

おかあさん、あなたが信心をされたこと、尽きぬ愛に心より感謝いたします。

感謝（おかげ）

諏訪 Jane

諏訪の家は５代に渡って金光教ワヒアワ教会に関わって来ました。諏訪光子の両親、野口惣次郎、タマによって初めら

れました。高橋ハル子先生が御用をされていました。義母は、彼女のお母さんや、友達の兼重さんが毎月１日、１３

日、それに２３日の夕方に仕えられる月例祭に参拝するために車で送迎していました。やがて、義母も年をとり、夜の

車の運転を控えるようになり、代わりに、息子の嫁である私が、教会への送迎に関わってきました。お祭りの後迎えに

いって待っている間、先生のお話を聞きました。その当時は日本語のみでほんの尐し解る程度でした。

このようにして、約３０年前より、私、諏訪ジェーン、諏訪光子の息子の嫁として金光教ワヒアワ教会に関わりを持ち

始めたきっかけです。やがて、義母が、家族全員を日曜日に教会に連れてくるようになりました。お祭りの後、サン

デースクールを始めるようになりました。日本語をならったり、日本語のカードゲームで平かなを習ったり、手芸をし

たりして楽しみ、その後でおやつを頂きました。私たちの子供たちは、先生の子供たちと一緒に大きくなり、同じ学校

に行き、高校を卒業するまでそのようでした。


Recitation of the Tenchi Kakitsuke

Ikigami Konko Daijin Tenchi Kane no Kami

Isshin ni Negae Okage wa Wagakokoro ni ari

Kongetsu Konnichi de tanomei Pray sincerely, with all your heart

Be one with Kami. Kami’s blessings begin within

Hearts grateful and caring, In harmony and joy.

Look to Kami always,

Now and forever.

On this very day, pray.

Adoration Prayer

Leader: We lift our eyes in awe toward heaven, soaring above

We lift our eyes in awe toward heaven, soaring above.

We bow our heads in prayer toward earth, rich and deep. Living amid such gifts of Kami’s great giving, How happy and grateful we are!

The Mediation of the Living Spirit does not stop for a single day.

The protection of the Parent Kami embraces all, far and wide. The blessings of Kami flow without limit through all generations The ways of Kami are mysterious and wondrous, beyond our understanding.

Day by day, every day, earnestly and reverently, We praise the virtues of Kami, We honor the power of Kami.


神徳賛詞しんとくさんじ

SHIN TOKU SANJI

仰あお

ぎまつれば天高てんたか

く AOGI MATSUREBA TENTAKAKU (Leader)

仰あお

ぎまつれば天高てんたか

く拝おろが

みまつれば地ち

は厚あつ

し神かみ

の恵めぐ

み AOGI MATSUREBA TENTAKAKU OROGAMI MATSUREBA CHIWA ATSUSHI KAMI NO MEGUMI

に生い

かさるる身み

の幸さいわ

いぞありがたきわが生神いきがみ

の

NI IKASARURUMI NO SAIWAIZO ARIGATAKI WAGA IKIGAMI NO

御取次一日おんとりつぎひとひ

も欠か

くるときのなく天地てんち

の神かみ

の御守おんまも

り遠とお

き

ONTORITSUGI HITOHIMO KAKURU TOKI NO NAKU TENCHI NO KAMI NO ONMAMORI TOOKI

近ちか

きの隔へだ

てなし神慈かんいつく

しみは万よろず

代よ

に遍あまね

く満み

ちて果は

て

CHIKAKI NO HEDATENASHI KAN ITSUKUSHIMI WA YOROZUYONI AMANEKU MICHITE HATE

しなく神量かんはか

らいは奇くす

しくて人ひと

の思おも

いぞ及およ

ばざるわれら SHINAKU KANHAKARAI WA KUSUSHIKUTE HITO NO OMOIZO OYOBAZARU WARERA

今月今日こんげつこんにち

礼いや

びまつりてひたすらに神かみ

のみかげを賛たた

えま KONGETSU KONNICHI IYABIMATSURITE HITASURANI KAMI NO MIKAGEWO TATAEMA

つらん神かみ

のひれいを仰あお

ぎまつらん。 TSURAN KAMI NO HIREI WO AOGI MATSURAN.


的確にボールを進める。たとえ完璧なショットではなくても、結果を受け入れ、前進していく。次に同じような状況になった時、どの

様により良く出来るかを調整する。どんなに良くなるか悪くなるかは、自分の態度、力量、技によります。別の言葉で言えば、自分

が今この時点で持っているものでするしかないのです。野外でゴルフを楽しむことによって、自分の体の運動にもなるという言い訳

もできます。そして、神様がお与えになった自然の美を愛でたり、芝生、木々、砂、時には水溜りのあるコースをあの小さいボール

を操りながら進む。自分の体の補給をするために食物やお水を頂ながらエネルギーを蓄え、かつそれらの物が全て神様のお恵み

であることに思いを寄せる。一人静かに時を過ごす機会もある。自分の思いに耽ったり、ストレスから開放される。時には、ゴルフを

すること自体が負担になる時もある。そのような時には、外からの助けを得たことによるペナルテイ無しの神様や御霊様の助けをお

願いする。つまらないゴルフジョークはさておき、自信の中にいるゴルフの邪魔者をやっける必要がある。それは自分自身のコー

スやパーと呼ばれる難しい数字に対する精神的強さです。もし、誰か自分より上手か下手な相手とゴルフをする場合には、段差を

なくして競争条件を同じにするハンディキャップ制があり、誰でもが楽しめるようにしている。気の合う仲間とゴルフをしながら過ご

す時間に比べれば、誰が勝った負けたは二の次です。まったくの見ず知らずの人であっても一緒に過ごすことを通して絆や友達

としての関係が生まれます。お道を広げるたり信者を増やしたりするのにはとっても良い方法だと思います。ゴルフをしている間に

金光教について語ったこともあります。丁度教会に参拝するのと同様、より良くゴルフをすることによって、自分のこと、自分の力に

ついてわからされ、より良い人格、徳を得られる。ある人が、冗談半分で、ゴルフは宗教のようなものだと語っています。日曜日にゴ

ルフをしているからというだけでなく、自分がどれほど正しいかわからないでいる。ルールを破り誤魔化しても、ただ自分をだまし、

成功への歩みを遅くし、人の信用を失うだけです。このような理由で日曜日に息子達とジュニアーゴルフを楽しみ親子で時間を共

に過ごし、先ほど述べた利点を総括的に得ています。ニコラスはアレックスより数多くゴルフをしますが、今のところゴルフの練習や

技術を習得するというよりも友達と遊んでいるのが実情です。やがて、家族全員でゴルフを楽しみ神様のおかげを自分が一人占

めして楽しむのではなく、全員でその恩恵に浴したいです。もしもご希望ならば、お年を召した方であろうが、若年であろうが、謙

虚にお相手させて頂きます。

見ての通り、私の信心は個人のレベルに留まり、神様の御心をわからせて頂くことに専念しています。先生の所に座り私の祈りを

神様にもっと直接的にお届けして頂くように、もっとお取次ぎの方面に力を入れたいです。最初に述べたように、確かに、先生は

私の人生で大変なところを超えさせてくれました。ただ今は、私の日常のこまごましたことで、取次ぎを通して願うのはすこし先生や

神様に負担をおかけするのではないかと思っています。やがてその時がくれば、そうなるだろうと思います。それぞれ違った人生

の歩みをするように。仲間や他の人を見てそのことがわからせられます。幼い内には、ただ親が連れてくるから教会に参拝する。

通常大学に入ったり、就職口を捜し始めると、自分の存在や、将来のことに時間を費やす時期が訪れます。ある程度余裕ができ、

生活の安定を得ると、何か人生に物足りない感じを覚え、やがて、その空虚な穴を埋めるのは、宗教であり信心であるとの結論に

達する。確かに信心を通して人生が豊かになるとの確信を得たならば、より良く自分のことがわかり、そして、そのことを人と分かち

合うようになります。その分かち合う時間がより多くなれば、自分が属している共同体に奉仕することが出来ます。このサイクルは遅

かれ早かれどれ程自分の生活が安定しているかによって異なってはきますが、必ず訪れます。尐し、恐怖を感じるようなこと遭遇

するとそれが尐し早くなるでしょう。人生は短い。生きている時間を意味があり価値あるものにすべきです。信心はその価値ある時

間をより良くしてくれます。教会が、より豊かな生活に必要な援助や手助けをしてくれます。

先生やご信者の方々が私を初めて歓迎してくださった時から、やがて人数の増えた家族にも、心地よさや親しさを差し伸べて下さ

り、ワヒアワ教会に関わっていることに、とてつもなく感謝しています。ハワイに於ける拡大家族として、皆様がわたしを支え、知識を

与え、英知を与え、そして古き良きアドヴァイスをくれました。時には気まずい思いをしたこともありますが、しかし、お互いの信頼関

係で又元に戻ってきます。この支援グループはハワイの金光教全体にもあてはまります。この家族のような関係が非常に有難いで

す。やがて年老いて、御霊の世界に移行しても、本当の意味でのアロハスピリットを現しています。常に、受けた恩を思い、あなた

方のことを祈ります。皆さんありがとう。今では、本当にハワイは私の家族のそして、私自信の住処であります。サンフランシスコや

北米の金光教が懐かしく思うか？との問いには、勿論、しかし、神様は私をハワイに差し向けこの地で大きく貢献することをねがっ

ていると思います。金光教はすばらしい宗教です。しかし、あまりにシンプルなので理解出来難い。素直に心を解放し,頂いている

おかげをわかりさえすれば、本当の意味での感謝の内容がわかります。

金光教ワヒアワ教会布教７０年記念に寄せて

山本ブルース

私の両親、山本トーマスとヒルダは、金光教ワヒアワ教会の信者でした。既に両親はなくなりましたが、私と共に御霊

としてこの記念祭をお祝いしていると思います。母は、「両親である野口惣次郎、タマは金光教ワヒアワ教会が７０年

前初めてワヒアワの地に開かれてからの信者である」と語っていました。それから言えば、私は３代目の信者になりま

す。子供ながらに、夕方に仕えられた御大祭に参拝し、境内の芝生が人で埋まるくらいであったのを思い出します。


金光教について私が有難いと思うこと

古庄ランデイー

又１０年が過ぎ、この度金光教ワヒアワ教会布教７０年記念祭が仕えられます。正直なところ、教会は私に信心で人生を見ることが

出来るように確かな影響を与えてくれました。６０年記念祭をお祝いさせて頂いたのは、つい最近のように思いますが、実の所私自

身の人生の上に大きな変化がありました。過去１０年間で人生が変わるような出来事を振り返ってみると、私が遭遇しなければなら

ない様々な出来事をいい時も困難な時も私の家族の御霊様、友人、それに先生が導いて下さったと思います。その意味で本当に

このような方々がいてくださったことが有難く感謝しています。

私が遭遇しなければならない大きな変革は軍隊での生活から一般市民としての転換から始まりました。仕事を得るためには、尐な

くとも学士の大学卒業の資格かそれにふさわしい資格を身につけなくてはなりません。幸いにも、退役軍人手当てで全ての学資

の支払いが出来たことは有難いことでした。フルタイムで働きおまけにフルタイムの学生でもありました。私の妻真澄は長男のニコ

ラスを身ごもっており働いてもいました。最初の大学での学期が終わると同時に妻に異常が生じ、ニコラスは予定より６週間早く生

まれました。長男の誕生は私にとっては最上のよろこびの一つでした。しかし、仕事と学業の両立で睡眠不足に陥りました。大学

の最後の学期に、次男のアレックスが誕生しました。次男も長男同様、新生児集中治療処置室のやっかいになりました。どうにか

神様のお計らいにより、学士の資格を得ることが出来、親としての責任に意を注ぎ、次の仕事を探し始めました。仲の良い友達の

誘いによって彼に私の履歴書を渡したことにより、今の政府のコントラクターの仕事を手に入れることが出来ました。その仕事は、

大変手腕を問われるものであり、報酬も多く楽しいものであることがわかりました。学校での専門知識を生かし、他の専門家達と

チームを組み、再び、兵士と共に仕事をすることになりました。ミッションは現実の世界であり、自分達の成功が兵士の生死に関

わっているのです。訓練のためにあちらこちらと旅行する機会があります。そのついでに、米本土や海外の家族の者や、友人を訪

れます。ようやく、家族水入らずで生活を共にし、どうすれば良い親になれるのか、そして、子供の成長を見守っています。その

間、母やその他の親戚、拡大家族、友人を亡くしました。いくらかでも亡くなった方々と、生前時間を共に過ごすことが出来たこと

は有難いと思います。

現在子供達は小学校に通っています。妻の真澄は家におりパートタイムの学生として学びたいことを目指しています。私はこれら

の成り行きを有難いことと思っています。しかし、これらは偶然か神様のお計らいかと言われれば、私は、神様のお計らいと受け

取っています。現在の経済状況の中で安定した仕事があり、都合良くいっていることが有難いと思います。大きな出来事について

は以上のようなことですが、日常のなんでもないことはどうなっているのか？

神様は自分の日常の生活にどのように関わっているのか？通常の神様は私達家族に健康と必要な物を与えて生活出来るように

してくださっている以外に、次々に起こる決断をしなければならない事を通して、日々信心の手腕を問われたり、お試しがあってい

ます。神様は良い親であり、褒美や罰、原因と結果を通して、私に様々な決断をさせ、私の勇気を試すような状況を作り出すように

感じます。そのことを通して、結果がどのように出るかを予測させ、同じような状況が来たときにはより良い結果を生み出すように経

験を通して学習できます。ひょっとして、思わぬ方向に反れたとき、最小限の反れで、元の路線に引き戻される。神様の助けが十

分でないかのように、私の祖先や友達の御霊のさらなる助けで導いて下さる。多くのシナリオは白黒がはっきりしない状況であり、

どれだけ横道に反れたかに関わって、色々な段階での成功か失敗かがある。選択は自分一人のことであり、問題は、結果を受け

入れなければならないことであり、必要なら修正を余儀なくされ、多分その過程において神様の徳を得るのだと思います。全ての

人は良い状態で生まれている、しかし、一人一人違ってくるのは人生に於ける選択だと思います。神様の心で物事を見てみると、

別の物が見えてくる。難しいのは、信心の目で日々頂いている数知れないおかげに気付くかということです。自分達の物の見方に

よって、頂いているおかげ、又そのおかげをどう生活の中で生かしていくかが結果を決定してしまいます。時には自己的な欲を離

れたり、他のものを犠牲にして、視野を広げて大きく物事をとらえたり、結果を見なければならない。自分の欲ではなく、今あること

に感謝し、お礼を申し上げること。最も大切なことは、物事をどのように捉えるかということが全てで、本当に信じることが必要です。

より良い親になるためにはどうあればいいのか、自分の日常生活の上に出くわす一つ一つの決断がどうあれば良いのかについて

常に神様の導きと英知を求めています。信心の良い例ではないかもしれないけれども、そうすることが自分には確かなものとして

作用しています。近い将来神になれるとは思わないけれども、その方向に向かっています。

最近、ニコラスが生まれて以来ご無沙汰していたゴルフに又興味がわき始めました。フラストレーションを感じるようなものではある

かも知れないが、ゴルフは非常に自分を謙虚にさせてくれる、丁度金光教が自分の心の持ち方によるように。なぜこの変な選択を

したかについて、又どうしてゴルフが私に肉体的にも精神的にも目覚めさせてくれたかについてのの弁明と理由について語らせて

下さい。ゴルフは個人競技であり、生涯を通して、様々な価値、例えば、正直であること、尊厳、スポーツマンシップ、尊敬、自信、

責任、忍耐、礼儀、それに判断について教えてくれます。ゴルフはとてもダイナミックです。どのショットも丁度人生そのもののよう

に、自分ではコントロール出来ない様々な外的要因、例えば、天候、地形、などの影響を全て考慮して自分の狙っている場所に


Shinjin No Eiko (Shining Laurels of Kami and People)

Lyrics by Kinzo Sato

Music by Michiharu Ohara

1) Ametsuchi wa Kami no futokoro 天地あめつち

は神かみ

のふところ

Hito wa mina Kami no itoshigo 人ひと

はみな神かみ

のいとし子ご

Kagiri naki megumi no nakani かぎりなき神徳めぐみ

のなかに

Ikasaruru warera ureshiki 生い

かさるるられ等ら

うれしき

2) Hito no yo ni towa no hikari wo 人ひと

の世よ

にとわの光ひかり

を

Itoshigo ni tsukinu mikage wo いとし子ご

につきぬみかげを

Chikawashishi mioya no Kami ni 誓ちか

わしし教親みおや

の神かみ

に

Sukuwaruru warera ureshiki 救すく

わるるわれ等ら

うれしき

Shinjin no Michi

(The True Way of Faith)

Lyrics from “Shinkun”

Music by Toyoji Matsuda

Shinjin no michi o 真心しんじん

の道みち

を

Mayowazu ushinawazu 迷まよ

わず失うしな

わず

Sue no sue made 末すえ

の末すえ

まで

Oshie tsutaeyo oshie tsutaeyo 教おし

え伝つた

えよ教おし

え伝つた

えよ


A Shining Shimmering Light

Original Japanese Lyrics and Music by Tamie Imaoka

English Lyrics by Lisa Uzunoe & Akiko Mito

With a heart/ caught up in doubt and worry I face/ my life/ every morning

Wanting to shine/ but somehow holding back Joy and fear/ swirl within my heart Still I know/ even one as small as I Can run/ into some day/ and find A shining/ shimmering/ brilliant light

Glowing from/ a path that never ends

(Chorus)

Instead of/ losing hope or/ fearing what’s ahead

Let’s keep on/ moving forward/ with our heads held high

For we are all/ living in a world That/ embraces you and me/ with its love

Supported by/ the prayers of those who/ care for us We’re never/ alone in our lives

When I’m down/ and ready to surrender When times are hard/ and it seems so dark Just knowing each day/ that I’m never on my own

Gives me strength/ and courage to try harder

Holding hands/ with my friends standing by my side Swinging arms/ together we will walk To the shining/ shimmering/ brilliant light

Glowing from/ a path that never ends

(Chorus X2)

Grace Before Meal

All food is provided by Tenchi Kane no Kami, to sustain our lives.

Let us be thankful for whatever foods we may eat or drink.

Pray for good health, for good health is the foundation of all things.


Memories of the Past Decade

Rev. David Yano & Rev. Megumi Ikemoto gets married Hawaii Conference of Religions for Peace (HCRP) Peace Prayer

Church members enjoying Naorai fellowship reception after the Grand Ceremony

New Year’s Mochi Pounding

(Left) Sunday School Halloween Pumpkin Carving, Renee dances Kibimai, (Right) Church Garage Sale


Message of Appreciation (日本語訳 P. 40)

By Reverend Edna Kazuko Yano

Associate Minister

Konko Mission of Wahiawa Congratulations to the Konko Mission of Wahiawa in celebrating its 70th Anniversary! I’m treating it as if it were a centennial. With every church anni-

versary we are able to celebrate, I am amazed be-yond words at how this little family church in Wa-

hiawa was able to continue on for so many years. People often miss our church because it’s nestled in a residential area—but those who know the Wahi-

awa Konko Mission, are the people who truly realize that blessings can be received at this church.

I would like to thank our Divine Mediator, Ikigami Konko Daijin-Sama and our Divine Parent, Ten-chi Kane no Kami-Sama and all the people who are part of our church Ohana —from the ministers,

church members, friends and spirits of the deceased who continue to support us. I would also like to thank the many other people out there who continue to pray for the Wahiawa Church. This church

exists thanks to all of you.

Open 365 days a year, the resident ministers are available to take your calls for mediation even in the middle of the night. I have been watching my parents take faith into action. They would take calls

in the middle of the night, change into their robes, head to the church altar and pray for the individual that has called with news. Sometimes it was a phone call informing us of the passing of a church member; sometimes it was a call announcing the safe birth of a baby. Regardless of what kind of

call or mediation it was, my parents took them very seriously and forwarded the prayers to the Di-vine Mediator, Ikigami Konko Daijin-Sama and Divine Parent, Tenchi Kane no Kami-Sama. They

are my greatest spiritual mentors. It is they who inspired me to become a minister. I really appreci-ate my parents. That Rev. before my name is nothing to brag about—it’s just an indication that Kon-kokyo is the core of my life and that I am willing to be of service to the Divine Parent at all costs.

I went to the Konko Church of Amagi in Fukuoka, Japan right after graduating from high school. I followed the same paths as my two older brothers. I saw a significant positive change in them, which convinced me that taking the same path is the right thing to do. I also went to the Konkokyo

Seminary at the Headquarters in Okayama, Japan. I stayed in Japan for this spiritual training for two years. I am glad that I went while my mind was still soft—so I could capture every essence of the Konko religion. The many spiritual episodes I encountered while in Japan were phenomenal. I was

submerged in the Konkokyo faith before I was even born. The more we learn about the faith, the more interesting it gets. And even if I have been in this religion my whole life, I discover new things

about this faith almost every day.

Appreciation is how the Wahiawa Church began. Appreciation is why the Konko Mission of Wahi-awa can celebrate its 70th year anniversary. Appreciation is the key element for our church to con-

tinue to exist in the next 10 years, 50 years, 100+ years and forever.


Wahiawa Church 60th Anniversary Memory Pics (March 12, 2000)


My Appreciation for Konkokyo (日本語訳 P. 34)

By Mr. Randy Furusho Another decade has passed and as we celebrate the seventieth anniversary of the Konko Mission

of Wahiawa, I can honestly say, the church has definitely affected my insight on life through

faith. It seems like the other day, when we were celebrating the sixtieth anniversary, but there

have been a lot of changes in my life. As I reflect on some of the life changing events for the

past ten years, I believe that Kami Sama, the Mitama spirits of my family and friends, and Sen-

sei have helped guide me through the highs and lows which enabled me to cope with the various

situations I have encountered. For that I am truly grateful and appreciate their existence.

Some of the major events I have encountered began with transition from military to civilian life.

To be able to compete in the job market I had to go back to school and earn at least a bachelors

degree or something. I was fortunate to have my veteran’s benefits to pay my way through

school. There I was working full time and had to become a full time student to boot. My wife,

Masumi was pregnant with Nicholas at the time and working too. After my first semester as a

college student, Nicholas was born six weeks early due to complications experienced by Ma-

sumi. It was one of the happiest times in my life, but I became overwhelmed at times juggling

my different responsibilities and the added sleep deprivation. During my senior year of college,

my second son Alexander was born. He, like his brother had an extended stay at the hospital in

the neo-natal intensive care unit (NICU) too. Somehow through some divine arrangement, I was

able to complete my bachelors program, refocus on parenthood, and begin the search for my

second career. Through a bit of prodding from a good friend of mine to give him my resume, I

was able to land my present job as a government contractor, which has turned out to be chal-

lenging, rewarding and fun. I actually get to do what my major was in school and enjoy going

to work with other professionals on my team to work with soldiers once again. The mission is

real world, with our success being soldiers come home alive. I have the opportunity to travel in

support of various training events and make side trips to visit family and friends on the

mainland and abroad. I finally have the time to spend with my family, learning how to be a good

parent, and watch the boys grow. During that timeframe, I also suffered the loss of my mother,

some relatives, extended family and friends. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to spend some

time with many of those relatives in their later years before they passed on.

At present, the boys are attending elementary school, with Masumi as a stay at home mom and a

part time student pursuing her educational goals. I feel very fortunate for the outcome I have

received for these major events, but would you say this is coincidence or Divine arrangement, I

beg to say it is the later of the two. With the current state of the economy, I’m grateful that I

have some job security and that we are doing well. That pretty much covers the big things

that I have encountered so far, but what about the little things sometimes taken for granted every

day.


you for the salvation of others.” It is through the initiation of the Rev. Michio Miyake that helped to establish the interfaith organization of Hawaii Conference of Religions for Peace. Because of the connectedness to the interfaith communities of the Rev. Miyake, my husband also has gotten in-

volved in the activities of the interfaith communities.

The Rev. Sachiko Yasutake of Konko Church of Amagi and many other fellow students at the Kon-kokyo Gakuin Seminary also gave us encouragement and sent us off to Hawaii. Of course, we have

been so grateful for the extended support and prayers of our parents and family members back in Japan. The late Rev. Shoichi Okuno was Chief Administrative Minister of Konko Missions in Ha-

waii in those days. He worked hard in bring us to Hawaii.

The Konko Mission of Wahiawa is a branch church of Konko Mission of Honolulu. The founding minister, the Rev. Masayuki Kodama had passed away before we arrived in Honolulu. The second

Head Minister, the Rev. Kikue Kodama was in good health and was serving for the faith community. The Rev. Kikue Kodama was like a mother figure for me. We enjoyed her gentle nature, thoughtful-ness and deep prayers for us.

The Konko Mission of Wahiawa is a family-church where all members are members of an ohana. Whenever we initiate community activities, they all respond positively and we are able achieve whatever goal we aim for. The people in the faith community express their thoughts by saying, “I

feel so thankful. I feel so grateful. I really appreciate the Konko-Sama in Wahiawa.” Some families have preserved the faith tradition for five generations.

Our three children (David, Rodney and Edna), who experienced spiritual training at the Konko Church of Amagi, and enrolled at the Konkokyo Gakuin Seminary at the Headquarters Church and were ordained as Konko ministers provide me a great deal of hope and joy. I would like to extend

my sincere thanks to the Rev. Michiyoshi Yasutake, Head Minister of Konko Church of Amagi, the ministers and believers in Konko Missions in Hawaii and Konko Churches of North America for their support, guidance and prayers forwarded to us. The main theme of the anniversary is

“Appreciation.” When I try to extend my appreciation, I feel like overwhelmed with the thoughts of appreciation for many other elements in life. I wish and pray that I will continue to enjoy good

health and be of service to Kami-Sama.

(Left) Revs. Yasuhiro & Reiko Yano first arrive in Hawaii 33 years ago. (Right) Reiko-sensei with members for mochitsuki



By Reverend Reiko Yano (aka: Okusan)

Associate Minister


I feel overwhelmed with the heart of thankfulness and gratefulness in com-memorating the 70th Anniversary Celebration of Konko Mission of Wahi-

awa. The founding minister, the late Rev. Haruko Takahashi initiated her missionary work in Wahiawa on January 14, 1940 and served for the faith

community for 32 years till her passing on December 24, 1972. After the passing of the resident minister, her siblings helped to keep the doors open for the congregation for a few years. The Rev. Hiromichi Ishii, who was

sent to work for Konko Missions in Hawaii from Japan also served tempo-rarily till the next minister took over the responsibility of the church. Both my husband and I came to take care of the church on September 28, 1977,

and have served for 33 years for the faith community in Wahiawa.

Just a day after our marriage ceremony at the Konko Church of Amagi, where both of us were under-

going spiritual training, we left the church for our missionary work to Hawaii in September 1977. Upon our departure, the late Rev. Fumio Yasutake, the Head Minister of the church, gave us a mes-sage for our missionary work. The message on the wrapping paper of the goshinmai sacred rice

read, “信心辛抱の徳” (Shijin Shinbou no toku) or “Earn divine trust through your perseverance in

exercise of the faith.” I understood the message as a condensed earnest prayer for us. We also made a visit to the Konko Church of Hirao where I used to attend regularly and learned about the basic

elements about the practice of faith. When we arrived at the church, the regular church service was in session. After the service, the Rev. Masato Yoshino, Head Minister and the church congregation gave us encouragement for our missionary work by reciting “Banzai” three times.

We also visited the Konkokyo Headquarters Church at Konko Town in Okayama. The 4 th Konko-Sama, the Rev. Kagamitaro Konko was serving at the Mediation Desk. In responding to our for-warded message of our missionary task in Hawaii, he gave us a long talk. In his message, he men-

tioned two main thoughts. One is, “Inochi no shin no hataraki” or “The core vital functions given to every living thing.” The other is, “Konnichi made no orei” or “Extending appreciation for all the

blessings being received.” My husband was so much overwhelmed with the shared messages and always talked about the two messages repeatedly for the regular monthly services. It was years later that I learn to appreciate the profound meanings of the two messages.

The Rev . Seijiro Inagaki, head minister of Konko Church of Iwatani in Hiroshima, came to send us off at the Headquarters Church. Every time we make a pilgrimage to Japan, we always stop by at the church. We really appreciate their extended prayers for us for all these years. We also stopped by at

the Konko Church of Tokiwadai where my husband used to attend when he was going to school in Tokyo. The Rev. Michio Miyake gave us a message inscribed on the wrapping paper of Goshinmai

sacred rice. The Japanese verse reads, “有難きこの思し召いつまでも忘れずに行け人助けの道”

which can be roughly translated into English as, “Preserve this wondrous divine mission assigned to


How does Kami Sama fit into my daily life? Well, besides the standard answer of Kami allow-

ing us to live each day through providing my family and I with good health and the necessities

for life, I am permitted to challenge or test my faith on a daily basis through a series of choices.

I believe Kami Sama being a good parent, produces situations to test my mettle by allowing me

to choose different courses of action using a reward and punishment system or cause and effect.

That way I can learn from the experience by assessing the outcome, develop a better solution if

the event arises again and move on to the next decision point. If by chance I waiver to far off

track, I will be guided back on course, hopefully with minimal deviation. As if Kami Sama isn’t

enough help, I also have the Mitama spirits of my ancestors and friends as additional resources

to draw on. Since most scenarios do not necessarily have a black or white solution, there are

varied levels of success and failure which relate to how far you may wander. The choice is yours

and yours alone, the catch is that you will have to live with the outcome, make amends if needed

and maybe gain divine virtue along the way. All people are created good, it’s the choices made

in life which make each one of us different. With a heart of Kami, you will have a different out-

look of life; the hard part is how we recognize the many blessings we all receive each and every

day by using our spiritual eyes. Dependent on your perception, the blessing received and how

we apply it in our lives will determine the outcome. Sometimes you have to broaden your scope

and look at the big picture or end state by eliminating your selfish desires and make other sacri-

fices to achieve a goal. Be thankful and appreciate what you have, not what you want. Most im-

portantly, since perception is everything, you have to truly believe. I constantly ask for guidance

and wisdom from Kami to become a better parent and make better choices at each decision point

I encounter in my daily life. It might not be the best example of faith, but so far it seems to work

for me. I may not become a kami anytime in the near future, but it is work in progress.

Recently I have turned my attention back to golf following an extended hiatus after Nicholas

was born. As frustrating as it may be, golf is very humbling and like Konkokyo depends upon

one’s own heart. Let me try to justify and quantify my reasoning for this bizarre choice and how

it has opened my eyes both physically and spiritually. Golf is a wonderful individual sport

which crosses many barriers and teaches us lifelong values like honesty, integrity, sportsman-

ship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment. It is dynamic

because every shot requires focus to achieve that precision required to propel the ball to a de-

sired location that is affected by external factors you have no control over like the weather and

terrain, as in life itself. Even if you don’t execute the perfect shot, you must learn to accept the

outcome and move on; assessing what you could do better and making the adjustment for the

next time those like conditions exist. How well or poorly you do is dependent on your attitude,

ability, and skill set. In other words, you have to make do with what you got right now this in-

stant. You also have an excuse to get in some exercise for your body playing outdoors and learn

to appreciate the beauty of nature as Kami has provided, the grass, trees, sand, and sometimes

water in which you have to negotiate that little ball around the course. As you need to replenish

your body with substance like food and water to sustain your energy, remember that Kami has

provided these things for you too. You also have a chance for some quality alone time, time to


ponder whatever thoughts you might have or just relax to relieve some stress. Sometimes the

game will add the stress to your day, if that is the case; maybe you might have to ask Kami or

the Mitama spirits for some assistance without a penalty of course for using an outside agency.

Sorry for the poor golf humor, you must do what you have to in hopes to conquer those golf de-

mons inside. It’s your mental toughness against the course and an elusive number called par. If

by chance you are playing with others who might be better or worse than you, there is a handi-

cap system in place to help level the field, making it enjoyable for all parties involved. Winning

or losing is secondary when compared with the time spent with companions who enjoy the sport

as much as you. Even with perfect strangers, bonds are made and friendships developed over the

time spent together. Hey, this might be a good tool for propagation and membership too. I have

spoken to others about Konkokyo during conversations on the course. I feel that the more you

practice the better you will get to know yourself, your capabilities, and build a good character or

divine virtue, just like going to church. Some people jokingly speak of golf being a religion;

they don’t know just how right they are, not because they are playing on a Sunday either. If you

opt to cheat by breaking a rule, you are only shortchanging yourself and prolonging your jour-

ney toward success and ruining your good reputation. For these reasons I now have the boys

involved with junior golf on Saturdays where we can spend some father-son time together

and we can gain that fore mentioned virtue collectively. Nicholas goes more often than Alex,

but right now I think it’s more for socializing with the other kids than practicing on his game or

life skills. Eventually, I hope the whole family will get more involved with the game so I won’t

be the only one reaping the blessings of Kami and having fun doing it. And yes if you have to

ask, I have been humbled by players both senior and junior to me.

As you can see, my faith training is still at the individual level in search of attaining the heart of

Kami. I still need to work more on the Toritsugi portion though, by sitting down with sensei and

have him convey my prayers to Kami in a more direct manner. Granted, sensei has helped me

out with the bigger events of my life in the past as stated in my introduction. I just feel that the

petty things in my daily life may become a bit burdensome for him and Kami to work on using

the express route. I guess I’ll eventually start when the time comes, just as we all reach different

evolutions in our life. I’ve seen it within my peer group and others as we reach various phases in

our lives. In our younger years, we attend church because our parents bring us. Then there is a

period where we spend our time searching for our existence and future, normally as we become

adults attending college or seeking a career path. Once we reach some comfort zone and feel a

bit more secure, we realize something is missing in our lives and eventually come to the conclu-

sion that it is religion or faith that we need to fill that void. Now with a reenergized conviction

to enhance ourselves through faith, we learn more about ourselves and begin to share more with

others. As more time becomes available for us to share, we can now start giving back to our

community in which we live. For some, this cycle happens a bit sooner than later based on how

secure we feel, but it does happen. A life threatening event in our life usually accelerates the

process. Life is short; the time we spend in a physical form should have substance and quality. I

feel religious faith enriches that quality time and that the church is there to provide the support



By Reverend Rodney Takashi Yano

Associate Minister

Konko Mission of Wahiawa (Currently at San Francisco Church)

First of all, I would like to say congratulations to the Konko Mission of

Wahiawa, its congregation, its supporters and the many families and friends that have become a part of this church’s Ohana.

I am currently serving at the Konko Church of San Francisco for a little over five years now, and it has been a tremendous growing opportunity for me in many ways. I really feel that it has helped me to become a better

rounded person. But there are things that have gone on in my life that had forced me to slow down and think about a bit. I remind myself of where I

from originally, thinking about faith, and to my surprise with a lot of prayer and appreciation, Kami always makes things work out.

As the years passed living in the mainland, I saw myself growing an even stronger connection to Ha-waii, its people, lifestyle, and of course the food. Mmm, I can taste it now, Hirota-san’s special macaroni-salad, Suwa-san’s cakes we had for Birthday- Sundays, Noguchi-san’s cottage cheese Jell-

O. Oh there’s too much to list. I find myself reminiscing about the many priceless memories of the “good old days” (I feel older now) growing up in this church with my siblings and friends; whether it

was playing hide-and-go-seek around the church, to jumping our bikes over make-shift ramps, to catching lizards all around the neighborhood, oh and don’t forget the Mochi pounding! It was all good times!

One thing that I can be sure to look forward to is that the Wahiawa church will always continue to thrive for many years to come. I am forever grateful to Kami-Sama and everyone’s prayers and sup-

port that helped Wahiawa church get to where we are today. Congratulations once again and thank you very much!

Sunday School Star Festival Bamboo Tree Decoration Onolicious food during the ceremony receptions


guard duty in addition to my normal 8 hour work shift. Despite the chaos and sadness, Jason had to leave several days later. I was so afraid for him.

I continued to pray for him even though I was exhausted and worried sick. He finally called to tell me he made it to Virginia safely. I was so relieved. I stayed in Germany for a few months and then

got transferred to Fort Hood, Texas. We were trying to have a baby but the Army kept separating us. It was frustrating but all I could do

was pray. I finally got pregnant and Jayden was born in March 2003. Unfortunately, I had to deploy to Iraq 5 months after he was born. Jason’s unit was preparing to deploy so he had to bring Jayden to Hawaii. In the end, Jason was able to stay in Texas until I returned but he had to work long hours so

we decided to leave Jayden in Hawaii until I returned. I am so thankful to my mom and grandma for taking care of Jayden while I was deployed.

I cannot find the words to adequately describe how thankful I am that Konko-sama and my ancestors watched over me while I was deployed. I had several REALLY close calls but I didn’t feel scared. I

felt peace and calm in my heart, which helped me to think clearly about what I have been trained to do. I am thankful that my unit returned safely. I got pregnant soon after I returned and Bryce was born in January 2005. We are so thankful for our two sons and we felt that I should get out of the

Army so that I could be with Jayden and Bryce. Jason is still in the Army and will be able to retire in 9 years. He is currently serving his third deployment in Iraq. I am thankful that I have such a won-

derful husband and that Konko-sama protects him while he is deployed. We are also thankful that our extension got approved so we are able to stay in Hawaii for another

year. I am thankful to my family for helping me take care of my kids while I attended school at night. I have such heartfelt gratitude for the numerous blessings that I have received over the years and I cherish the generous and loving people who have been a part of my life. And I cannot think of

a better way to show my appreciation than to bring my children to church so that they learn to trust in Konko-kyo like I have and so they look to Konko-sama and our ancestors to help guide them in the right direction.

Sunday School Pumpkin carving back in the days (Trisha, on right)


and resource we need for that enrichment.

I’m extremely thankful to be part of the Wahiawa church, from the beginning when sensei and

the members welcomed me in and provided comfort and friendship to me and eventually my

family as we grew in numbers. As my extended family here in Hawaii, they have given me sup-

port, knowledge, wisdom and good old advice. We may not have seen eye to eye at times, but

the mutual respect we have for one another keeps me going back. This support group has ex-

tended throughout all the Konko Missions in Hawaii too. I’m truly grateful to this Ohana, they

have shown me the true meaning of the aloha spirit and as our membership here advance in their

years, eventually transitioning to the Mitama realm; I will always remember the support pro-

vided me and pray for and to you. Thanks to you, I can now definitely call Hawaii home for my

family and I. Do I miss San Francisco and KCNA? Sure, but I think Kami intended for me to

stay in Hawaii and try to make a difference here.

Konkokyo is a wonderful religion, though difficult to understand at times because of its simplic-

ity. If we just open our hearts to recognize the blessings we receive, then we can truly under-

stand the core tenet of APPRECIATION.


My Mother (日本語訳 P. 36)

By Ms. Doreen Hirota

My mother, Chieno Hirota, was a devoted follower of the Konko-kyo faith until she passed away on November 17, 2009, at the age of

86. Now she is a Mitama Spirit watching over us. She loved the Konko-kyo Religion and Church and always relied on Konko Sama for everything in her life. We were introduced to the Konko-kyo faith at a very early age. Mom told us to always pray to Konko Sama in our daily life.

While growing up in Hilo, Hawaii, she attended the Hilo Church un-der the spiritual guidance and Divine Mediation of the Reverend Yo-

shifusa Nishida. Mom would walk for miles to offer prayers at the church. When she moved to Wahiawa, she continued this faith by attending the Konko Mission of Wahiawa.

My mother would always tell us to drink “Goshinmai” daily and always depend on the “Goshinmai” and “Omiki.” She was a lovely and wonderful person and always worried and

prayed for her family. Her faith in the Konko-kyo Religion was very strong and immeasur-able. She proved her “Isshin” or single-heartedness throughout her entire life.

We are going to miss our mother immensely but we know she is always watching over us and praying for her family’s well-being.

Thank you mom for your faith and never ending love.



By Mrs. Trisha Adkison

I have been attending the Konko Church of Wahiawa since I was little. I liked coming to church every Sunday. Looking

back, I remember that I did not like to read from the Gorikai because I did not want to feel embarrassed if I could not

read a word in romaji. However, I did love to sing and I always looked forward to Sunday School. The children at-tending Sunday School were all around the same age so we

got along well and had a lot of fun.

Throughout the years, I continued to attend church with my mother and grandmother. I joined the Army soon after

graduating from Leilehua High School. I was stationed in Germany for my first duty assignment. That is REALLY far

away from home for someone who has never lived by her-self, let alone outside of a quaint little country town like Wahiawa. I was often homesick but found much comfort in

the letters and phone calls home. Reverend and Mrs. Yano would mail me the church newsletter and I am so thankful that they continued to do so wherever I moved to.

I met my husband, Jason Adkison, while stationed in Germany. We had a whirlwind romance typical to Army couples. We were engaged after 3 short months and planned to go to the Justice of the

Peace to get married. However, Jason knew I was homesick and that I never could have imagined myself getting married without my family there by my side. He asked if I wanted to go home to get married and, of course, I said YES! It took us a couple of months to get our leave dates approved and

before I knew it, I was home. I’m a procrastinator and I’m grateful that my family has always saved me during “crunch time.” In

my defense, it is hard to plan a wedding in Hawaii when you are all the way in Germany! My family helped me set up our small Japanese style wedding at the Konko Mission of Wahiawa. I was over-whelmed but could not have asked for a more perfect day.

We returned to Germany and I got deployed to Macedonia soon after. While I was deployed, Jason

re-enlisted so that he could change his job. I was allowed to return to Germany early to spend time with him before he had to report to Virginia. On September 11, 2001, we were spending the day in downtown Germany. I requested the day off because Jason was scheduled to fly out to Virginia the

next day. We decided to watch one last movie together. Halfway through the movie, my friend called me and told me something bad happened in New York.

She said that she couldn’t tell me over the phone but that I had to come into work right now because we were being locked down. We immediately left the theater. Downtown Germany seemed unusu-

ally still as we rushed back to our car. I hurried into work and ended up pulling 12 hour shifts of


Mr. Sōjiro & Mrs. Tama Noguchi Family Gather to celebrate the opening of the Noguchi Fender Shop in Wahiawa (Mid-1950’s)

Jane says her family has been coming to this church for over 33 years and now her grandchildren and

Mitsuko’s great-grandchildren, Jayden and Bryce are now attending this church on Sunday, too. Jane says, I thank Konko-sama for all the blessing I have received. Through Konko-sama’s okage (blessings) I have 2 daughters and three grandsons, Philip age 14, Jayden age 6 (going to be 7 on

March 13, 2010) and Bryce age 5. I pray to Konko-sama and recite the Tenchi Kakitsuke every morning before I leave the house and

every night before I go to sleep. In my prayers, I thank Konko-sama for all the okage (blessing) my family have received and for keeping us all safe and healthy each and every day. I try to come to church every Sunday and listen to both Reverend Yano’s sermons and get inspired and after reading

the Gorikai we all stand up and sing some songs. We all like the song “Shining Shimmering Light” because this song gives you hope and tells you you’re not alone so stand tall and have faith. I enjoy

coming to church and when we read the Gorikai books which is in English, we understand and are learning the teachings of Konko-kyo. Before the teachings were all in Japanese and I only know some words and couldn’t understand some of the teachings until we started to hear the sermons and

teachings in English. The grandchildren like when the church have special activities. We celebrate birthdays, and most of

the holidays throughout the year doing craft activities. New Year is the best because we have a New Years party, play games, have lunch and everyone participates in hitting the piñata. We also get to

draw the next New Year’s astrological animal. Every time I have an event or function I need to go to I always pray to Konko-sama first thing in the morning, “Please get me there on time and please help me find parking space”. When I arrive at my destination I am surprised that I actually find parking

space. I believe if you pray to Konko-sama wholeheartedly you will receive divine blessing. I do not know of any other religion, when you ask for something and you pray wholeheartedly, you will get divine blessing (okage) from Konko-sama, sometimes quickly sometimes in a couple days, but the

diving blessing does come. Our family would like to thank all the Reverends in the Yano family for continuing the church services for this church and for praying for all of us each and every day.


The 5th Spiritual Head—Reverend Heiki Konko and wife, Mrs. Yaeko Konko

visits the Konko Mission of Wahiawa on August 17, 2000



By Mr. Bruce Yamamoto Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my family's involvement in The Konko Church. 70 years of service in

Wahiawa is a tremendous fortune to our community. I am very grateful and proud to be a part of your faith. Kami could

not have chosen a better Reverend and family to run The Konko Mission of Wahiawa.

My parents, Thomas and Hilda Yamamoto were members of The Konko Mission of Wahiawa. They have both passed on and will be with me in memory at the celebration. My

mother had mentioned to me that her parents, Sojiro and Tama Noguchi were members of the Wahiawa church when it first

opened, which would be 70 years ago. That would make me a 3rd generation member. As a child I can remember attending seasonal church service in the evening, with standing room only

on the front lawn. At least 60 elderly church members would be sitting on zabuton's, taking up every inch of the Goza floor inside the white wooden building. Muliwai St. seemed to have cars parked on both side for many blocks. Some people would have to walk a long ways from their parked cars to

get to the Church. All I could hear coming from inside the church was the service being spoken in Japanese, which I could not understand. During the service, the children were playing and running

up and down the street. It was like a Carnival, excitement was everywhere. The women would be down stairs in the back getting the food ready for the meal after the service. I

always looked forward to having this tasty dinner. As a child, my brothers and I had great experi-ences at the Church. Priority at that age was having fun playing with friends and family. We did not know what the religion was all about until we got older. There is lots of memories at The Konko

Mission of Wahiawa. Appreciation is probably the best word to define what I have learned most from the Konko

Church. It appears that it is only when you loose something, you can appreciate its value most. Konko Kyo has taught me to appreciate what I have before it is gone. Rev. Yano and Mrs.

Rev. Yano will say a few words of wisdom to me when I visit the church. These words have great meaning when I interpret and fuse it with my experience's in life. It gives me a strong non-materialistic view at life. A calm and relaxed feeling comes over me whenever I attend this

Church. I always leave with a positive attitude and a clear mind. I am very fortunate that my Grand Parents and my Parents had chosen this religion and; therefore,

giving me the chance to enjoy what it has to offer. The 70th anniversary is only a few weeks away, and thanks to Kami Sama and The Yano Family, I feel healthy enough to attend the festivities. I

look forward to seeing everyone, and especially the Yano family at the celebration.


Appreciation (Okage) (日本語訳 P. 36)

By Mrs. Mitsuko and Ms. Jane Suwa (Below, Mrs. Mitsuko Suwa celebrates her 88th Birthday)

Our SUWA Ohana (Family) has been with the Konko Mission of

Wahiawa church for five generations. It started with Mrs. Mitsuko Suwa’s parents Mr. and Mrs. Sōjiro and Tama Noguchi. When they were attending church, Reverend Haruko Takahashi was the minis-

ter. Mitsuko drove her mother and her mother’s friend, Mrs. Kane-shige to church on the 1st, 13th, and 23rd every month so they could attend church services at night. As the years past, Mrs. Suwa did not

want to drive at night so Jane Suwa, her daughter-in-law offered to drive them to and from church. Since Jane had to pick them up after-

wards she decided to wait and listen to the church services. At that time it was spoken only in Japanese and Jane understood only a few words.

This was how Ms. Jane Suwa, Mitsuko Suwa’s daughter-in-law be-came involved with the Wahiawa Konko Mission, which was over

30 years ago. After awhile, Mrs. Suwa started bringing the whole family to church on Sundays. After the services were held, the church started Sunday School for the children. They learned to speak

some Japanese words, played a Japanese card game to find the hiragana characters, made arts and crafts and after the activities we all had refreshments. Our children grew up together with the Rever-end Yano’s children and went to the same schools until they all graduated from high school.

As the years past, the sermons were done by both Reverend Yasuhiro Yano and Reverend Edna Yano in English and Japanese. We appreciate the sermons being done in English today because the

sermons are positive and involves the present everyday situations that the Reverend encountered and we can relate to what they went through. We come to church every week and we learn something about the Konko-kyo teachings. When we leave the church service we feel happy and refreshed and

can go through the week feeling blessed and knowing Konko Sama is watching over us.

As of today, our family extends through five generations who are now attending the Wahiawa Konko Mission church, which started from Mrs. Mitsuko Suwa’s parents Sōjiro and Tama Noguchi, Mrs. Mitsuko Suwa, daughter-in-law, Ms. Jane Suwa, daughter, Mrs. Trisha Adkison and Trisha’s two

children Jayden and Bryce Adkison. Mitsuko Suwa says through Konko-sama’s okage, I just celebrated my 88th birthday and I am in

good health. I am blessed with 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Not everyone can have grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Every night before I sleep, I thank Konko-sama for all the

okage (blessings) my ohana (family) have received everyday. Jane Suwa would like to thank Mitsuko Suwa for bringing her family to this church. (Continued on next page)

Documents

70th Anniversary Celebration Konko Mission of Wahiawakonkomissionshawaii.org/Wahiawa70thBooklet.pdf · Konko Mission of Wahiawa 70th Anniversary 48 ... Hugh 79) Noguchi, Jean 80)