LIHUE — Like the Buddha, who was bathed in a light rain that sprinkled on Lumbini Garden when he was born about 2,500 years ago, about 100 guests to the Lihue Hongwanji Mission 125th Anniversary Commemorative Service were bathed by a light rain that fell on Kapaia Valley on Sunday.
Bishop Toshiyuki Umitani officiated over the service with the help of the Rev. Shawn Yagi and the Rev. Tomo Hojo. Among the guests were three centenarians: Natsuko Daida, Akiyo Matsuyama and Natsue Onishi.
“The history of the Lihue Hongwanji Mission started before its official founding in 1900 when Rev. Soryu Kogahi visited Kauai in 1889,” Umitani said. “In 1900, driven by the Japanese immigrants’ strong desire for religious guidance, Rev. Kenya Arai was sent to Lihue, where he and a small team built a temple on land provided by the Lihue Plantation.”
Umitani said the temple construction was done and the structure dedicated in 1903.
“Rev. Hiseki Miyasaki then served the temple for 45 years, laying a firm foundation for the mission,” the bishop said. “From these modest origins, the temple has grown into a spiritual sanctuary for the community.”
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii President Dr. Warren Tamamoto congratulated the church on its 125 years, and the completion of its 125th anniversary projects that included the audiovisual upgrade in the temple and social hall; replacement of the altar Tocho and scrolls of Shinran Shonin and Renyo Shonin; the kitchen renovation project; and the service and celebration.
“Although Lihue Hongwanji Mission began as a humble flame, the diligent efforts and dedication of our past ministers and members, along with the understanding and generosity extended by the greater community, have turned it into a shining light that continues to illuminate our island,” said Yagi, the Lihue Hongwanji minister who was recently promoted to oversee the Kapaa Hongwanji Mission in addition to the Lihue temple. “Our temple stands today as a living testament to their faith and devotion — a place where the teachings of Amida Buddha are heard, and where people of all walks of life can find comfort, understanding and joy in the Nembutsu.”
Lynne Matsumura, the Lihue Hongwanji Mission president, suggested burying a time capsule similar to how one was buried in 2020. This would inspire commitment to keep the temple thriving until the capsule is opened.
“One hundred twenty-five years may be spoken in a single breath, yet they represent countless moments of joy, challenge, resilience and Nembutsu,” Umitani said. “Reflecting on all that the temple and its members have endured and achieved, I place my hands together in Gassho to express heartfelt appreciation for the many Nembutsu followers who have come before us — including the past ministers and their families — whose efforts have made it possible for us to encounter the Jodo Shinshu teachings and find a spiritual home here in Lihue. May we walk the path they paved, living each day with gratitude, guided by the Nembutsu.”
For more information, visit the Lihue Hongwanji Mission website at www.lihuehongwanji.org.
Source: The Garden Island