Reverend Ryomyo Arima our Assistant Priest, designed this graphic
for the cover of the Oeshiki Ceremony program.

 

Representatives from the Young Adults Group preparing to greet
temple members and hand out programs.

 

In addition to warm hearts, members brought contributions for the post-ceremony potluck lunch.
        

With beads in hand and hands in prayer, parishioners chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
in expression of complete devotion to the Mystic Law of the Lotus Sutra.

 

 

Everyone was settling in for the ceremony to begin.

 


After Kenzen offerings are removed from the alter they are passed to lay representatives,
who then carry them to the priests' quarters.
 
    

Part of our practice is to encourage others to embrace the faith.
 

Reciting the Liturgy of Nichiren Shoshu before the temple Gohonzon brings us closer to the Dai-Gohonzon enshrined at the Head Temple, Taisekiji, Japan.

 
 


Although the Liturgy is recited in classical Japanese,
it is not difficult to learn with a consistent morning and evening practice.

 
         
There is no hardship that cannot be overcome.

 
         

As part of the ceremony, Reverend Kimura, our Chief Priest, and Reverend Arima our Assistant Priest, read excerpts of petitions by Nichiren Daishonin and His successor delivered to Japanese government officials over 700 years ago.

 
     
Following Reverend Arima's rhythm on the taiko, parishioners chant in the background.   


 

Reverend Kimura also gave an Oeshiki address.


 

After the ceremony, temple officers were appointed for the year.
 

 


There were also encouraging experiences from a couple who recently left the SGI to rejoin the temple.
 

 

Members from the Seattle/ Tacoma area and Reno were given
special recognition for traveling so far to attend the ceremony.
Members from Calgary, Vancouver, and Portland were also in attendance.

 

 

 


Before enjoying a potluck buffet lunch, everyone posed for a group photo.

 

 


One contented member heading for home.

 

  (Photo Album)