LIGHT of DHARMA April, 2019 Vol. 1, No. 4 仏法の光 Buddhist Church of San Francisco

1881 Pine St., San Francisco, CA 94109 (415) 776-3158 buddhistchurchofsanfrancisco.org

Rev. Duncan Ryken William Introduces American Sutra to BCSF and the Day of Remembrance

At BCSF on Feb. 17th, Rev. Duncan Williams delivered a dharma talk introducing his new book American Sutra: A Story of Faith and Freedom in the Second World War. The discovery of notes written by his mentor’s father, Rev. Shinj Nagatomi, a minister of the Manzanar Buddhist Church and before that of BCSF, launched Rev. Williams’ seventeen year journey to write American Sutra. Rev. Williams was honored to be giving a Dharma talk in the same hondo as Rev. Nagatomi.

(Right) Rev. Duncan Williams showed a slide (Left) of Rev. Nagatomi officiating a service at Manzanar in 1943, before an interfaith monument inscribed with the kanji for I-Rei- To, “Monument to Venerate the Spirits of the Deceased.”

(Left) Later, that afternoon at the annual Day of Remembrance interfaith event, sponsored by JARF, Rev. Williams read a poem called “Parting” by Nyogen Senzaki, a Zen priest in LA, which he considered an “American Sutra” as he would characterize the stories of Japanese American Buddhists. (Right) The program concluded with a vigil from the theater to the JCCCNC building. Visit: https://www.duncanryukenwilliams.com Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma

Light of Dharma (formerly titled “Geppo”) is a monthly newsletter of the Buddhist Church of San Francisco.

Please send any communications for Light of Dharma to: [email protected]

The deadline for submissions is the tenth of each month for the next month’s issue.

We apologize in advance for any errors. Please send any corrections to Light of Dharma.

We thank the many contributors, BCSF Ministerial Team photographers, writers and readers. We look forward to hearing from Rev. Ron Kobata- Resident/Supervising Minister you.

Minister’s Assistants: Please visit the Buddhist Church of Leo Balambao San Francisco website at: Jerry Bolick buddhistchurchofsanfrancisco.org Jack Dairiki (Honorary) Rev. Elaine Donlin (Tokudo) BCSF has our own YouTube channel. Leo Joslin See page 11. Rev. Keisuke Lee-Miyaki (Kyoshi) Camille Pating Light of Dharma Rev. Dr. David Pating (Kyoshi) Buddhist Church of San Francisco 1881 Pine St. San Francisco, CA 94109 BCSF would like to thank Mary Brown for her service (415) 776-3158 to BCSF and wishes her well in all future endeavors. [email protected]

Buddhist Church of San Francisco Mission Statement

The purpose of the Buddhist Church of San Francisco (BCSF) is to maintain a temple and establish a Buddhist community of the Jodo Shinshu faith in San Francisco, CA. Building on our profound legacy as a Jodo Shinshu spiritual center, we strive to awaken within us the compassion and wisdom of the Buddha Dharma. BCSF endeavors to share the teaching of the Buddha to all those who seek the knowledge and the truth of the Buddha Dharma, to promote our Sangha (community), and to provide the general welfare and service to guide the activities which strengthen our faith in the Buddha and advance our learning in the Dharma.

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Honoring (Appreciating) Being Born Into Human Life

Rev. Ronald Kobata Resident/Supervising Minister April 2019

In April we celebrate the birth of Siddhartha south, east, west, and then pointing up to the sky Gautama who was awakened to Buddhahood, and and down to the earth, then declaring, “In the dedicated his life/ministry to relieving suffering in the heavens above and the heavens below, I alone am world. Historically we’re taught that this world- the world honored one”, celebrates the joy and changing event occurred on April 8. Based upon the gratitude for being born into human life. year 2444 cited in the first issue of Light of Dharma Some may question, if being born as a published in April 1901, Sakyamuni Buddha would human being is such a joy and privilege what’s up be 2563. Considering the number of human beings with all of the pain and suffering we feel, see and alone that have been born and died that have hear happening around us? Well, isn’t that what preceded us for each of us to be born into human Siddhartha wondered too, which inspired him to life since that time, the term Immeasurable Life realize a state of being that alleviated the sorrow? comes to mind. This is the third of the Four Noble Truths that assures At the same time, we cannot overlook or us that there is a way to transform suffering to an ignore that fact that humans do not live in a vacuum. awareness of joy and gratitude in life. We are all absolutely dependent upon the This awareness inspires us to live by innumerable causes and conditions that are realizing how, in the thoughts of the late Rev. Dr. constantly bringing us to life: air we breathe, water Alfred Bloom: “Buddhism turns our attention to the we drink, food that nourishes our bodies, countless inner nature of our lives. It does not look to history living beings working to provide, support and for justification and meaning. It does not deny the transport all of the utilities that enable us to live in present for an imagined future. Rather, it means to safety and comfort. At the same time our day-to-day develop a sensitivity to all that is around us for the interactions with people and the world around us directions our experience offers. It means to be open instill us with knowledge and understanding to to others, to work with them, to share with them. inspire us to live with appreciation for the fact that Finally, it means not so much to ask: What is the we do not live alone. meaning of my life? But rather ask: How meaningful The legend of Siddhartha’s birth that am I to others? In contributing to the building up of describes how he appeared from under his mother’s others, we attain our own stature.” right arm, stood up, walking seven steps north, Namo AmidaButsu

Sympathy The Buddhist Church of San Francisco extends its deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the late Jeff Adachi who passed away on 02/22/2019 and Yutaka Yao who passed away on 03/18/2019.

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Mindful Reflections by Leo Joslin (Minister’s Assistant)

03/14/19 sometimes buries nuclear waste in remote deserts. He describes this as “differentiating between nature I always enjoy visiting with other Sangha and humanity”, sadly noting that “…it becomes members while having refreshments in the social permissible to dispose of waste into nature because hall after services. However, sometimes I get a little the people do not consider themselves to be a part confused when throwing away my paper plate, of nature as one entity” (p.41). napkin, and fork. I ask myself “Which bins do I use and for what?” Even when they are clearly marked, I Since we are truly part of nature, we must properly sometimes have to take a look to see what has dispose of anything that may harm it. I like to already been tossed to make sure I put things in the believe that the energies of the Universe flow right place. I do have a tendency to overcomplicate throughout the entire planet. Shinran Shonin, in simple tasks! Notes on Essentials of Faith Alone states, “Buddha- nature is none other than Tathagata. This Tathagata Most of us do our best to follow recycling pervades the countless worlds; it fills the hearts and rules because we know that we must take care of minds of the ocean of all beings. Thus, plants, trees, our planet. All of our actions have karmic effects, and land all attain Buddhahood” (CWS, p.461). I including impact on the physical realm. For don’t pretend to completely comprehend this example, the erratic weather we experienced in passage, but it does give me the impression that our February and early March may very well have been interconnections include the planet in its entirety. the consequence of climate change initiated by I’m impressed by the inclusion of plants, trees, and human activity. We need to consider what we, as a land in Shinran’s statement. This further reinforces species, might be doing to bring this about. We are the feeling that we must take care of planet Earth, interconnected and in this together. and this includes every blade of grass!

In his book Moving Forward Just as You Are, While putting our plastic forks into the right bin is Monshu Kojun Ohtani, Resident Head Priest of Nishi not quite at the same level as disposal of nuclear Hongwanji, brings up the issue of nuclear waste, waste, it still comprises an important action. Every something not as easily recyclable as paper plates. little action counts! We remind ourselves of this He refers to the speech made by President Obama when we sit and walk on Wednesday evenings. We when he visited Hiroshima. In this speech, Obama also remind ourselves that we are supported by said that we human beings have the “ability to set many energies, and that we have so much to be ourselves apart from nature and bend it to our will”. grateful for. We are especially grateful for the Infinite (p. 40-41). The Monshu challenges this idea that we Light and Immeasurable Life of Amida Buddha, can set ourselves apart so easily. He refers to ancient energies that pervade the planet and entire Universe. Shinto beliefs in Japan, and how such beliefs can be Everyone is welcome to join us as we sit and walk translated in modern times “as respecting the natural mindfully. No experience necessary. Come as you world because we are a part of it. We are allowed to are. Namo Amida Butsu! participate in this natural phenomenon” (p. 41). The Monshu expressed dismay at how the United States

Join us for mindful meditation, Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm

Moving Forward Just As You Are: Living In These Uncertain Times by Monshu Kojun Ohtani is available from the BCA Bookstore.

http://bcabookstore.mybigcommerce.com/moving-forward-just-as-you-are-living-in-these-uncertain-times/ 4 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma BCSF Special Sangha Service Hana Matsuri Sunday, April 7th, 10 am

Hanamido Decorating! Sat., April 6th, 10 am – 1 pm Lunch served! The hanamido is a small altar that houses the Baby Buddha. The roof and base are decorated with flowers. In celebration of the birth of the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, we th will observe a special Hanamatsuri service on Sunday, April 7 at 10 am. in the Traditionally a GS and Dharma Hanamatsuri hondo. translates as “flower-festival.” Based upon traditional School activity. We can do this from legends describing Shakyamuni’s birth, the Japanese Buddhist custom to 10 am – 1 pm. celebrate his birth includes a special shrine called hanamido decorated with flowers, and a standing image of an infant Buddha over which we sprinkle sweet Come have fun in the social hall! Let tea. us know if you can come. We will serve lunch (Nanayo will need a Our Dharma School students will present a pageant of the Life of the Buddha. head count). Lunch will be served in the social hall following the service.

BCSF BWA Bake Sale Sunday, April 7, 2019 after the Hana Matsuri Service. Enjoy a wide variety of delicious desserts and Japanese goodies.

Rev. Dr. Kenneth Tanaka at Ohigan, Sunday, March 17, 2019

We were honored to have Rev. Dr. Kenneth Tanaka deliver the Ohigan dharma talk and to provide an English narration to アメリ カで生きてる仏教 “Buddhism, Thriving in America,” the NHK documentary about his life as a Buddhist. Kevin Yoza’s video of his dharma talk is available on Youtube.com. See p. 11 to learn how to find the BCSF Channel.

5 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma Sunday, May 12th at 10 am We will gather on Sunday May 12th, 2019 starting at 10 am GOTAN-E for Shuso Gotan-e to celebrate the birth of Shinran Shonin, the founder of our Jodo Shinshu or True Pure Land Sect of Shinran Shonin’s Birthday Buddhism.

Combined English & Japanese Special Service Infant Presentation Ceremony (Registration forms on opposite page)

A lite luncheon will follow the service.

Shinran Shonin was born in Hino Village (on the outskirts of Kyoto) on May 21, 1173 to Lord and Lady Arinori Hino. After losing both his parents before the age of nine, he was taken by his uncle to enter the priesthood and ordained at Shoren-in Temple in the Higashiyama area of Kyoto. At the age of 29, becoming disillusioned with his spiritual path in the cloistered monastic life on Mt. Hiei, he joined a reformist movement led by Honen Shonin based on the awareness that peasants and other lay people of the time could journey to the Pure Land by placing ones faith in Amida Buddha and saying the Nembutsu. Namo Amida Butsu.

March with BCSF in the Cherry Blossom Festival Grand Parade Sunday, April 21, 2019, 1 pm

For the third year in a row, we would like to invite all sangha members, parents and grandparents, affiliate and temple organizations, to march together under the BCSF umbrella. The parade is an uplifting experience and lets us appreciate the welcoming and diverse community to which we belong.

We have commitments from: Jiten Daiko, BCSF Kids Taiko, BWA, BCSF Choir, LGBTQQ, Soko Gakuen, Dharma School, Girls Scouts, Jr. YBA, YAO, Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Everyone is welcome to join the parade. One does not need to be a member of an affiliate organization or BCSF. The parade starts at 1 pm the parade proceeds up Polk, takes a left on Post and ends in Japantown at Post and Fillmore. However, because we are usually towards the end, we may not start walking from Civic Center until 1:30 pm. You may also join the contingent on Post St. near the Sequoias.

Contact: Richard Okiuye for more information.

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Infant Presentation Service (Shosan shiki), Sunday, May 12th, 10 am Shosan shiki ()literally means “infant first Buddhist service,” and and is often translated as “Infant Presentation Service.” Please join us on Sunday, May 12th at 10 am (in conjunction with the Gotan-e Service). Friends and family are encouraged to join in this very special occasion. Contact Rev. Kobata for more information.

Infant Presentation Service (Shosan Shiki) SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2019, 10 am, REGISTRATION FORM

...... Child’s Last Name First Name Sex(M/F) Age Date of Birth

...... Address City State

...... Zip Telephone(s) email(s)

...... Name(s) of Parent(s) or Guardian(s)

...... Date Signature Email to: bcsfoffi[email protected], or Mail to: BCSF, 1881 Pine Street, SF, CA 94109 by Monday, May 6, 2019

Welcome! The Buddhist Church of San Francisco welcomes all those who wish to learn about the boundless wisdom and compassion that is Amida Buddha without regard to race, religion, sex, national origin, color, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression.

7 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma Bay District BWA meeting, Feb. 16, 2019

On February 16th, the BCSF BWA hosted the Bay District BWA meeting. A main topic of discussion was: the World Buddhist Women’s Convention! Registration is open to all interested.

Somen inari, a BWA specialty, was The new FBWA shikisho is now available prepared for the Bay commemorating the 16th World Buddhist Area Day of Women’s Convention. A limited supply is Remembrance held available for purchase before the on February 17th. Convention online: $60.09 including sales tax; a matching case is $43.09 including sales tax. Contact Jean Fukunaga for information.

Arigat, Spring Clean up Volunteers! Thank you to all the volunteers who spent their We apologize for volunteers omitted from the Sunday working hard. Due to a memorial service in above list. Names were taken from the signup the afternoon, we did not have much time to clean sheet. Please call the office if you don’t see your as we usually do. Everyone did a terrific job in name. short time we had. BWA, BCSF Choir, Soko Gakuen, Dharma School, Girl Scouts, Taisho, Troop Our next cleanup is schedule for September, I hope 29, BCSF Board and the YAO were well you will be able to join us. This is an all Sangha represented, together with other members of the community effort to maintain our facilities for the Sangha and friends of BCSF. Jiten Daiko members enjoyment and activities for all. With much came on March 14th to clean the balcony in the gratitude. Thank you all. gym. We are grateful for the help and support we receive. Misaye Abiko Naoki Kanagawa K. Low Marcie Sada Melissa Angel Sadako Kashiwagi T. Low Susan Sakuma Katie Chen Harumi Kishida Humphrey Lu C. Seigel Tyler Devlin Keith Kojimoto Karen Marek P. Seigel Diane Durst Priscilla Kojimoto Greg Marutani Dr. Yoshimitsu Shimazu Josh Fandel Chiori Kondo Jeff Matsuoka Noriko Takikawa Jean Fukunaga Reiko Kondo Julie McCormick Kristi Tsukida Yasuko Fukuda Yachiyo Komori Kay Nakazawa Betty Tsugawa Joel Graycar Chris Leger Yukiko Oka Cole Westbrook Amy Hanamoto Henry Lew Curtis Okamoto Jesse Wiener Yumi Hatta Junko Low Richard Okiuye Jessica Xu Alix Holsten Janet Low Michael Otani Branden Yee 8 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma BCSF Jr. YBA

Food bank by Sara M.

On March 3, the BCSF Jr. YBA took part in working with the Bay District Jr. YBA at the Alameda County Food Bank (ACFB). It was a great experience to be able to make an impact on a community. We organized donated food into bins to be distributed to organizations that help the less fortunate. We made new friends and had a great time helping our community! Overall we sorted 2 and a half tons of food, which is equivalent to about 2,000 meals. It was a good chance to bond with other fellow YBAs in the district and get together for a good cause. L-R: Sydney L. Kelli M., Sara M., & Kayleigh Y.

Coast District Jr. YBA Conference in San Jose

by Sara M., Sydney L., Kelli M. and Max L.

On March 16-17 nine members of our Jr. YBA attended the Coast District Jr. YBA Conference in San Jose. The theme was Moana - Who are you meant to be? We did a few workshops followed by discussions to learn about ourselves and what type of Bay District Jr. YBA at the Alameda Co. Food Bank person we want to be. Each workshop had a Buddhist teaching that applied to real life. One of the workshops had us hold up certain cards to get points, and subtract points. At first we were all thinking about our own personal gain. They added the points together and we got a negative number of points. But after they taught us that we have to work together to succeed. We thought about everyone, not just our own group and worked together. The second time when the whole group points were added together we got a wayyy better score. The lesson of that workshop was to not be selfish and to work together to get the best outcome and succeed. The workshops were followed by a fun night of dancing and a boba bar! It was very exciting. 100% recommend you join us next Left to right: John I., Jordyn O., Mika S.T., Sara M., Max L., time. Dagan W., Sydney L., Kelli M., Keira S.T., and Rigel W.

9 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma BCSF Choir Sings for Kimochi Home Residents

Upcoming performances: Kimochi Home (March 17); Hanamatsuri (April 7); Kokoro Home (May 5); Shin Buddhist Choir Festival (June 8); Obon (July 14); Kokoro Service (August 12); World Buddhist Women's Convention (September 1)

SHAKYŌ CLASS SUN, APRIL 7, 11:30 am-12:30 pm Instructor: Yulan Yamamoto

日時: ４月７日, 日曜日 毎月、第1日曜日 午前11時半より12時半

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BCSF Short Term Strategic Planning Committee

At the BCA National Council Meeting on March 8, parsonage was not adopted. (See complete 2019, held in Phoenix, Arizona, BCA representatives recommendations on Social Hall bulletin board. ) voted to support the BCA Strategic and Financial Planning Committee's recommendation to The recommendation regarding the BCA "negotiate with any BCA-friendly organization (ie. headquarters building was good news for BCSF, as it BCSF or the Hongwanji) who might be interested in means that we can continue to gather the buying or leasing the headquarters building (in part information needed to explore feasibility and or in whole) with the expectation that BCA could options. become a tenant in the building and pay rent to the new owner/leaseholder." The next step is to arrange for an independent building inspection, expected to take place in the This was one of seven recommendations presented coming weeks. by the Committee to the BCA National Council. Six other recommendations included, in summary: The BCSF Short Term Strategic Planning Committee recognizing capital maintenance for BCA facilities (STSP) will be entering a new phase of reviewing as an annual BCA budget line; renegotiating the many scenarios and the feasibility of BCSF taking on BCA Endowment Foundation loan ($3.4 million) a major role in the building’s future. taken out for the Jodo Shinshu Center building project; and supporting new BCAEF fundraising All sangha and community input is welcome. See efforts: one for current deferred maintenance needs information and upcoming meeting announcements on BCA buildings ($1 million), and another to plan a on the Board of Directors bulletin board in the major campaign to strengthen BCA programs for the Social Hall. future. A recommendation to sell the bishop’s

A Reason to be on YouTube

Please visit BCSF’s new YouTube channel featuring Kevin Yoza’s videos of recent Dharma talks by Reverend Kobata, the Minister Assistants and guest speakers.

Go to youtube.com and type in “Buddhist Church of San Francisco” in the YouTube search box to access the channel.

You can “Subscribe” and be notified when new videos are uploaded to the BCSF Channel, by clicking on

If you are reading the online version, you can try clicking on the link below: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCybBRtgwGmJeMdvn3RpfD_A

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Acknowledgments for February, 2019 The Buddhist Church of San Francisco thanks our members and friends for your thoughtful and generous donations during the month of February. This list covers contributions recorded as of February 28, 2019.

Shotsuki Hoyo Shotsuki Hoyo

Arakawa, Atlas and Janet Takeoka, Gary Y IMO Hoover Takeoka Durst, Thomas and Diane Shinta IMO Clifford Sakae Tanabe, Jack and Sumiko IMO Miyeko Tanabe Fukunaga, Jean Y IMO Tanaka, Violet M Hashimoto, Hideo and Michiko IMO Walter Wataru Tokugawa-Dunckel, Paula IMO Mabel Takeko Tokugawa Hashimoto Tomimoto, George & Lillian IMO Yutaka Tomimoto Hayashi, Sumie Tsugawa, Betty Shotsuki-hoyo services IMO May Nakao Ina, Dr. Michael and Vickie IMO Ayako Mizono Uyehara, Toshiko IMO Satoyo Nakao Kagami, Akiko IMO Iwakichi Matsuhara Uyehara, Toshiko IMO May Nakao Kashiwagi, Hiroshi and Sadako IMO Shizuko Nimura Yamamoto, Leina and Liane Orlando IMO Grace T Yamamoto Katsuyama, Setsuko Yamasaki, Kiyoko IMO Tsui Yamasaki Kishida, Russell and Harumi IMO Satoyo Nakao/ Yao, Shinji and Yoshi IMO Yoshio Yao Kazama Nakao/ May Nakao Yao, Yutaka IMO Yoshio Yao Kobata, Rev Ronald and Sayoko IMO Shigeyo Nishizaki Koike, Paul and Tram IMO Louise Koike Kuno, Yukiko IMO Takeo Kuno Anniversary Memorial Service Orei Michida, Donald Mihara, Steven IMO Kenji Mihara Suen, Elbert and Caroline Satoda IMO Warren Eijima Mizutani, Hiroko Kagehiro, Michael and Karen (7th year) IMO Setsuko Kagehiro Morioka, Taeko Kagehiro, Ron and Margaret (7th year) IMO Setsuko Kagehiro Naito, Kuniko IMO Helen Hatsuko/ Paul Shizuya Naito Masuda, Michiko (3rd year) IMO Sumie Yamagishi Nakano, Diane IMO George Nakano Otsuki, Randy and Bonz (7th year) IMO Setsuko Kagehiro Nakao, Henry S IMO Satoyo Nakao Nishimoto, Edward and Ayako IMO Yoshio Yao Nonaka, Victor M IMO Masano Nonaka/ Hideo Sato Memorial Service Orei Nosaka and Sadural Family IMO Jack Nosaka Nosaka and Sadural Family IMO Marilyn Nosaka Junko Ono IMO Stanley Kazumi Ono Okazaki, Cynthia and Dana IMO George Okazaki Uyemoto, Jerry and Susan IMO Sachiye Uyemoto Ono, Donald T and Brenda IMO Arthur Toshio Ono Oshita, Aiko Sakaguchi, Kayoko IMO Yoji Sakaguchi Eitaikyo Sato, Dennis and Susie IMO Dora Sato Esherick, Norma N Sato, Dennis and Susie IMO Samantha Sato La Sato, Keith IMO Dora Sato Orei from Organizations Sato, Stephanie IMO Samantha Sato La Silver, Nanayo and Robert IMO Mitsu Kojimoto Takenaka, Yoshinori and Kyoko IMO Natsuko Takanaka Jiten Daiko Taiko Group

BCSF Treasurer Keith Kojimoto receives orei from Jiten Daiko members Joel Graycar, Galen Rogers and Kristi Tsukida 15 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma April Shotsuki Hoyo The memorial for your loved ones who passed away in April will be held on Sunday, April 14th at 10 am in English, and at 1 pm. for the Japanese. You are most welcome to attend.

Harukichi Abe Takiko Kabumoto George Masaru Murakami Tow Sato Mitsue Abe Ichiro Kachu Ryu Naganuma Yasu Shibuta Eitaro Antoku Yoshiaki Kami Misano Nakagawa Matao Matt Shigio Ayako Arishita Tamiji Kanegawa Sakae Nakagawa Katsusaburo Shikuma James Arishita Yuri Kapaona Chiyoko Nakai Guy Shikuma Grace Mutsuko Asaoka Eijiro Kato Hideo Nakai Katsumi Shimoda Hidetoshi Asaoka Rinbei Kato Tome Nakai Ritsuko Shimosaka Eikichi Kimball Asato Shingo Kato Kohei Nakamura Hana Shimotsu Shizue Atsumi Yuki Kato Lawrence Tomomi Nakamura Uichiro Shimotsu Chiyo Susie Blackson Hisao Kawabata Baby Nakano Yuriko Shiono Yasuko Chishaki Mansuke Kawahara Sanichi Nakao Sachiko Shiroma Tsune Dairiki Katsuyuki Kawakami Tosaku Nakao Maiko Shoda Masaki Dowke Sakutaro Kawakami Tsuru Nakashima Toshi Suenaga Yuki Enomoto Moto Kazama Shizuye Nakatani Roy Mamoru Sugaya Kimiyo Evans Chiyo Kenmotsu Misue Nakayama Shisho Susukida Joji Fujimoto Tora Kinoshita Ikuye Nara Chizue Jean Suyehiro Nobuo Fujimoto Masuko Kishi Komazo Narahara Yoshinori Taguchi Unoe Fujisaki Sakuzo Kitamura Tatsue Narahara Hide Tahara Masao Fujitaka Katashi Kodama Baron Chiharu Nishihara Isuke Takada Masue Fujiwara Yoshiko Komada Kaoru Carol Noda Mabel Shizuko Takahashi Mitsuko Fukushima Shinsaku Koyanagi Nobuaki Noguchi Shigeno Takahashi Tomiko Fukushima Yukiye Kudo Saisuke Noguchi Roy Hitoshi Tamai June Hatsuko Gyotoku Yoshiko Kunitake Jinko Noma Anna Tamura Gary T. Hamada Emi Kunihara Kimiko Noma Kiku Tanabe H.J. Belton Hamilton Kiyoko Futatsuki Kuroda Eddie Masayoshi Nonaka Shuichi Tanabe Jitsuhiko Hara Nao Kurotori John Isao Nonaka Tomoyuki Tom Tanaka June Harada Nancy Hatsue Daikiri Kurui Mary Hatsune Nosaka Grace Saye Tekawa Hatsuno Haruyama Hikojiro Masuda Masano Nozawa Herbert Hisashi Terada Tomiko Hayakawa Akira Matsumoto William Goro Obata Chonen Terakawa Kinjiro Hedani Chiyoko Matsuno Mitsu Odom Taeko Tomonaga Tokuji Hedani Yaroku Matsuno Umematsu Oishi Yuriko Tsuji Jitsuo Higashi Jenny Tayeko Matsuo Nobuichi Okada Katsue Tsujimoto Shizu Higashi Bunzaburo Mayeda Hatsuko Okamoto Tsuneko Tsumura Jane Akiko Hiramatsu Kataro Mayeda Sueichi Okamura Jane Takaye Tsurumoto Herbert Masakatsu Hiroshige Toshiaki Minamoto Kinu Oki Chiyo Ueda Chensee Hom Yahachiro Miyahara Ralph Okumura Torae Ueda Tasuke Horibe Sumiko Miyamoto Teiichi Ono Chika Urashi Harumi Horii Takeo Miyamoto Toraichi Onoda Yoshihiko Ushijima Kimiko Ikeno Yone Miyata Katsutaro Oshima Teruo Uyemoto Kumae Inagaki Fuyutaro Miyazaki Eiji Oshita Masatoshi Watanabe Isae Inoue Saichi Mizono Kay Setsuko Oshita Ko Yamamoto Takeshi Inouye Yukio Mizota Sam Sakao Oshita George Kazuo Yamaoka George Saburo Iseri Tadayoshi Mizota Riu Ouye Hitoshi Yamasaki Kenzaburo Ishihara Hanpachi Mizuiri Stan Ichiro Ozaki Mitsu Yamashita Motomu Ishii Jerry Ichiro Mizuiri Yoshio Ozaki Sasato Yamate Chisano Itatani Masami Mizuiri Tsunako Saiguchi Joe Jyoichi Yamauchi Jiro Iwai Takehichi Mizuiri Kitaichi Sakai Hideo Yano Shigetoshi Iwasaki Takino Mizutani Fuji Sakata Hide Yohena Larry Kenji Iwase Takako Mori Momoyo Sakita Hirotaka Yohena Sadako Jackson Haluto Moriguchi Fumiye Sato Shizuye Yokoro Yuriko Tsuji Jordan Teruo Henry Morishita Kanezo Sato Yosaku Yoshioka Jack G. Young

16 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma 414

阿部 春吉 株本 瀧子 村上 ジョージ マサル 佐藤 とう 阿部 光枝 賀中 一郎 長沼 龍 渋田 ヤス 安徳 栄太郎 加美 義明 永沿 龍 執行 又夫 マット 有下 あや子 金川 民司 中川 栄 志熊 勝三郎 有下 ジェイムス 力パオナ ユリ 中井 千代子 志熊 ガイ 麻岡 睦子 グレース 加藤 栄次郎 中井 秀雄 下田 克己 麻岡 英俊 加藤 林兵衛 中井 トメ 下坂 律子 安里 キンバル 栄吉 加藤 新吾 中村 孝平 下津 花 渥美 諍江 加藤 ゆき 中村 卜モミ ローレンス 下津 宁一郎 ブラックソン 千代 川端 久男 中野 ベ一ビ 塩野 百合子 樓木 靖子 川原 万助 中尾 三一 城問 幸子 大力 ツネ 川上 勝行 中尾 突作 正田 麻衣子 道家 まさき 川上 作太郎 中島 つる 末永 とし 搜本 ゆき 風問 もと 中谷 静忮 菅谷 護 ローイ イヴァン 菊池 君代 剣持 チヨ 中山 ミスエ 薄田 辛祥 藤本 譲治 木下 トラ 奈良 いくえ 末広 ちずえ ジーン 藤本 信男 岸 益子 樹原 駒蔵 田ロ 義則 藤崎 うのえ 北村 作三 樹原 タツエ 田原 ヒデ 藤高 寅佐夫 児玉 堅 西原 バ一ロン 千春 高田 伊助 藤原 ますえ 駒田 芳子 • 野田 香 キャロル 高橋 静子 メーブル 福島 光了• 小柳 新作 野口 信明 高橋 滋野 福島 富了• 工藤 ユキエ 野口 才助 玉井 ロイ ひとし 行徳 ハツコ ジュ一ン 国武 よしこ 野問 仁子 田村 アンナ 浜田 ゲーリ 国原 永堅 野間 きみ子 田辺 きく ハミルトン ベルトン 黒田 淸子 野中 正義 田辺 宗市 原 実彦 畔取 なお 野中 ジョン イサオ 田中 友之 トーム 原田 ジュ一ン 繰井 初江 大力 野坂 メリー 初音 手川 サエ グレース 春山 初野 拚田 彦次郎 野沢 まさの 寺田 ひさし ハーバート 早川 富子 松本 晴 小畑 ウィリアム 再郎 寺川 澄然 部谷 金次郎 松野 千代子 オドム みつ 友永 妙了 部谷 徳爾 松野 弥六 大石 梅松 辻 ゆりこ 東 實雄 松尾 ゼニー 多恵子 岡田 信一 辻本 カツエ 東 シズ 前田 文三郎 岡本 初子 津村 常了 平松 ジェインヌ 明子• 前田 翕太郎 岡村 末市 鶴本 ジャン タカエ 広重 ハーバート 政勝 南本 敏明 沖 キヌ 上田 ちよ ホム チェンシー 宮原 弥八郎 奥村 ラウフ 上田 とらえ 堀部 太助 宮本 スミコ 大野 禎一 浦志 千夏 堀井 はるみ 宮本 武夫 小野田 虎一 牛島 義彦 池野 公子 • 宮田 よね 大島 勝太郎 上本 輝夫 稲垣 クマエ 宮崎 冬太郎 大下 栄次 渡辺 正利 井上 いさえ 溝之 佐一 大下 節子 ケイ 山本 こう 井上 武 潸田 往雄 大下 栄夫 サム 山岡 カズオ ジョージ 井芹 ジョージ 三郎 潸田 忠吉 大上 リウ 山崎 斎 石原 健三郎 水入 半八 尾崎 一郎 スタン 山下 美津 石井 要 水入 ジェリ一 一郎 尾崎 義雄 山手 笹人 板谷 ちさの 水入 正三 才ロ 網子 山内 丈ー 岩井 次郎 水入 武七 酒井 喜多市 矢野 秀夫 耑崎 シゲトシ 水谷 たきの 坂田 ふじ 饒平名 ひで 岩瀬 健次 ラウリ 森 孝子 崎田 百代 饒平名 ひろたか ジャクソン さだ子 森口 春人 佐藤 富美枝 横路 静枝 ジョーダン ユリコ 辻 森下 輝男 ヘンリー 佐藤 兼藏 横路静技 ヤング ジャック Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma

Wisdom & Compassion: Buddhism for Our Time

East Bay Tri-Temple Dharmanar (Series of Monthly Seminars) Saturdays, 2:00 – 4:00 pm, February through May

February 10 at Berkeley Buddhist Temple March 10 at Buddhist Church of Oakland April 14 at Buddhist Temple of Alameda May 5 at Buddhist Church of Oakland

Rev. Harry Bridge (Buddhist Church of Oakland) Rev. Dennis Fujimoto (Buddhist Temple of Alameda) Rev. Kiyonobu Kuwahara (Berkeley Buddhist Temple)

Are you interested in discussing how Buddhism relates to our current world and times? Join us for a new Buddhist educational experience: the East Bay Tri-Temple Dharmanar. This series of four seminars will take place on a rotating basis at three BCA temples. Sessions are on the second Saturday of each month except the first Saturday in May. The topic is Wisdom and Compassion: Buddhism for Our Time.

WinterFaith Shelter Walk 2019 Supporting the Interfaith Winter Shelter

Sunday, April 7, 2019 1:30 pm

Lake Merced, San Francisco (Skyline Blvd & Harding Rd.) (meet at Parking Circle at intersection of Lake Merced and Sunset Blvds.) To register, donate or for more info: http//winterfaithshelterwalk

Sponsored by: The San Francisco Interfaith Council 18 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma

Buddhist Church of San Francisco Board of Directors Meeting Minutes Sunday, February 10, 2019, 1pm

Board members: Melissa Angel, Chelsea Arita, Frank DelGaizo, Doug Dorn, Alix Holsten, David Kamita, Sandy Yamakishi, Kevin Yoza, Rev. Ronald Kobata, Keith Kojimoto, Dr. Yoshimitsu Shimazu. Guests or Sangha members: Glynis Nakahara, Diane Noguchi, Susan Sakuma, Nanayo Silver, Nobumi Silver, Emi Uyehara, , Yumi Hatta

1. Opening Gassho by. Rev. Kobata at 1:15pm 2. Boy Scouts Proposal Update a. Nanayo Silver and some GS leaders present asked that the Board rescind its motion to approve the Boy Scouts’ proposal to create a girls’ (-only) troop. b. Board voted unanimously to rescind its earlier motion to allow Boy Scouts to form a Girls Troop. c. Board voted to have MAP facilitate discussions between Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to work together and try to resolve issues and reconvene in April and August to evaluate conditions. 3. Educational Building report (Susan Sakuma) a. Susan presented updated proposal to remodel the Educational Building to include a lift, not only sprinklers and alarm for a possible lease to a day care center. Susan would also like to correct soft story with gypsum walls to prevent collapsing in event of earthquake. b. Ordering/scheduling a lift would take at least 8 weeks. c. Would we have to close Soko Gakuen for entire quarter again? Depends upon whether work on lift could be confined to corner of the building. Need to consider impact on all users of the Educational Building. d. Susan’s estimate for lift is $209K, compared with $35K for sprinkler and alarm only. e. Board will continue discussion at future meetings. 4. Review January meeting minutes a. January minutes were approved as amended. b. Leave the language of the motion as it was passed 5. Minister’s Report a. Visitors from Otani University. b. Dr. Williams visit Feb. 17 for dharma talk and book signing. c. Ohigan: Dr. Ken Tanaka, NHK interview; April 7: Winter Shelter Walk d. Parade; Richard O coordinating e. Congratulate and recognize Dr. David Pating for Kyoshi f. MOU with Keisuke sensei for 10 hours/ week g. Walkway to the stupa: lack of ground covering is tracking gravel to be tracked into the stupa and building. Doug will investigate. Hondo furnace may need replacement. Stage curtains: in anticipation of big events, need front curtains cleaned. Pews are getting worn. Wood in onaijin may need preservation. Shinji Yao might be able to advise. Lower minister’s podium. Remove the base for the podium, to lower to floor. Other possible projects for cleanup. 6. Emi Uyehara’s nomination to join the board did not pass. 7. Motion to accept Treasurer’s Report for January was passed (MSC Doug/David/all). 8. BCA National Council Meeting 03/02/19 a. Motion authorizes Sandy and Frank to approve no more than $160 per member for BCA assessment. b. Motion entrust Sandy and Frank to decide how to vote on BCA Long Term proposal to sell Bishop’s parsonage passed (MSC David/Alix/two opposed). 9. BCE Temple Leadership Workshop report a. Kevin--best thing was meeting people from other temples. Very inspiring and beneficial. 10. Calendar and dates 11. Scheduling Board meetings. 12. General membership 3/24 11 am. 13. Toban for next meeting (All) 14. Appreciations 15. Closing Gassho at 5:15pm

Submitted by Kevin Yoza

19 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma

20 Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma

「性差を越える救い」山上正尊著 行信学報大31号抜刷

「性差を越える救い」山上正尊著 行信学報大31号抜刷 日本から珍しい贈り物を頂戴しました。大阪高槻にある行信教校 の学報です。おや、と封を開けてみれば「性差を越える救い」と いう抜刷冊子。大阪旭照寺（きょくしょうじ）のご住職が執筆さ れた論文で、性問題に適応しうる真宗教学を見出すことを目的と しています。まず、仏教における性というと男女の相違のみで、 性的少数者に対しては顧みられることが少なかった歴史的背景か らスタートします。三章構成となっていて、第一に念仏には性差 を越える救いが働いている論。第二に法然・親鸞の女人往生に対 する解釈。第三に性に起因する苦しみが仏の救いの対象となって いる説。どの点も非常に緻密で、納得のいくものばかりです。

２年前に京都の龍谷大学で行った「LGBTと仏教in SF」という私 の講演。私自身の日本での体験や、アメリカでの仏教会の取り組 みなどを伝えたのですが、山上住職も会場にいらっしゃったよう です。冊子と同封のお手紙にて、サンフランシスコ仏教会ホームページのInclusive Statementについて触れ 「各寺院が表明していくべき」だとおっしゃっています。宗教組織として表明するからには、教義的な裏付 けが必須となります。基軸となるべき柱が立っていれば、何か性差に関する問題が起こった時、各自がそれ ぞれ基本に立ち返ることができますからね。表明文と実態がかけ離れた有名無実という事態も防げます。こ の小冊子に込められた試論は、当事者である仏教徒の取り組みを支える大きな指針となるかもしれません。

かつて私の日本語の生徒さんが日本の支社で働き始めたころ、「なぜ日本人はプライベートなことまで聞い てくるのか」と憤慨しておりました。状況を確認すると、彼女はバイセクシュアルなのにも関わらず、同僚 が「生物学上女性＝性自認が女性であり、性指向は男性」というジェンダーバイアスを暗黙の了解として 扱ってくることに違和感を覚えたようです。おそらく「付き合ってる彼氏いるの？」とか聞かれたんでしょ うね。結局、彼女は2年間だけの駐在だし、日本語でどう伝えていいか分からないし…とあきらめの境地に 至ったようですが、なんとも悲しい現実です。「性が定義する社会的役割は、必ずしも個人の性別や認識、 外見と一致しない」これは仏の大悲心を学ぶ仏教徒であるならば、肝に銘じておきたい点です。 さて、浄土真宗の世界は、社会文化的な家父長制度と融合し発展してきた歴史があるので、性的少数者への 教学的研究は遅々として進んでおりません。その中にあって、山上先生の試論は一考に値する先駆的研究で あるといえましょう。今後は、社会文化的な諸問題に対して、真宗教学をどのように応用していくことがで きるのか、非常に楽しみです。還相回向という点からいえば、仏がどの様に性差に悩む私にはたらきかけて いるのかという考察。ならびに現生正定衆という点からみれば、性差が起因となった自死や暴力に苦しむ 人々に、現に念仏がどのような説得力をもちうるのか、どのような活力をもたらしているのかという検証。 このような視点は、仏教徒が社会へ実践活動をしていくうえで必ず問われるポイントです。この過程におい て、何も学識豊かな知恵が必要なのではありません。私たち一人ひとりが共に語り合い、わが身を振り返 り、また行動していくのみです。 南無阿弥陀仏。

1. 行信教校は、「学仏大悲心：仏の大悲心を学ぶ」私学として明治に開校。江戸時代に興った空華学派の流れを組む 由緒正しい仏教専門学校です。 2. この小冊子は旭照寺ホームページの「勉強部屋」からもご覧いただけます。http://kyokusho.g.dgdg.jp/ 3. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgenderの頭文字をとったもので、性的少数者を指した総称。 4. 「サンフランシスコ仏教会は、阿弥陀仏の限りなき智慧と慈悲を学ばんとする者であれば、いかなる種・宗教・性 別・国籍・年齢・性指向・性自認・性表現であれ、どなたでも歓迎いたします」 Please send your review of a novel, manga, or movie, [email protected] to: [email protected]. English or Japanese articles are welcome. (Rev. Lee-Miyaki will translate it.) Buddhist Church of San Francisco April 2019 Light of Dharma

April Monthly Services and Activities

Hanamatsuri & Luncheon: Sunday, April 7th, 10 am

Shotsuki Hoyo: April 14th, 10 am & 1 pm

Mindful Meditation: Every Wednesday, 6:30 pm Facilitated by Leo Joslin. Sitting and walking meditation followed by Dharma chat and tea.

Dharma Discussion: Wednesday, April 20th, 7:30 pm Third Wednesday of every month. Facilitated by BCSF Ministerial Team.

Evening Metta Service: Saturday, April 27th, 5 pm Facilitated by Rev. Elaine Donlin. Dharma talk, guided meditation and recitations in English. Held last Saturday of the month (except July and December)

Shoshinge Service: Sunday, April 24th, 10 am / Quiet sitting: 9:20-9:40 am / Japanese Service: 1 pm Facilitated by BCSF Ministerial Team. Chanting Shoshinge and Dharma talk. / 1 pm Japanese Service

“How Different Faith Traditions View Death”, speakers include Rev. Kobata and other faith leaders San Francisco Main Public Library, 100 Larkin St., SF, in the Latino/Hispanic Community Room, Thurs. April 4, 5:30 pm

BCSF BWA meeting: April 14th, 12 pm in the Social Hall Please review the minutes of the January 13, 2019 BWA meeting published on pages 18-19.

Bay District Jr. YBA meeting: April 7th, 1 pm, in the Social Hall Jr. YBA meeting: April 14th, 11:15 am in the Educational Building

Shaky : Sunday, April 7th, 11:30 am

Thank You to Our March Flower Volunteers 4/05: ? ; Misaye Abiko & Sharon Fujii 4/19: Cindy Okazaki; Akiko Arikawa & Susie Sato 4/12: Rev. Kobata; Sumi Suda & Amy Hanamoto 4/26: Diane Durst; Noriko Takikawa & Akemi Yoshimoto

Ice Cream Social April 5th , 7:30 pm: hosted by Pack 29 May 3: Jiten Kids, June 7: YAO

Taiji, Every Tuesday, 7-9 pm Educational Building, First floor. Info: email [email protected]

Senior Appreciation Brunch, honoring Sadako Kashiwagi, April 21st, Hotel Kabuki

Cherry Blossom Festival Grand Parade, April 21st, 1 pm Assemble at Civic Center, 1 pm, or 2 pm, across from Sequoias, near Post and Octavia,

22 Light of Dharma ! Buddhist Church of San Francisco ! 1881 Pine St .! CA 94109 ! 415-776-3158 April 2019

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

MARCH 31 APR. 1 APR. 2 APR. 3 APR. 4 APR. 5 APR. 6

9:20 am: Quiet Sitting 5:30 pm: Rev. Kobata “Death & Dying” @ 10 am: Hanimido 10 am: Lady Kujo/BWA SF Main Library 7:30 pm: Ice Cream Decoration 6:30 pm: Mindful Social (hosted by service Meditation P29) 7 pm: Taiji

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

9:20 am: Quiet Sitting 8 am: SFIC 10 am: Hanamatsuri Breakfast 11:30 am: Shakyo 6:30 pm: Mindful 1 pm Bay District Jr. YBA 7 pm: Taiji Meditation 1:30 SFIC WinterShelter Walk 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

9:20 am: Quiet Sitting 10 am: Shotsuki Hoyo 1 pm: Japanese Shotsuki 6:30 pm: Mindful Hoyo 7 pm: Taiji Meditation

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Senior Appreciation Brunch 7 pm: Taiji 5 pm: Metta Service 9:20 am: Quiet Sitting 6:30 pm: Mindful 10 am: Sangha Service Meditation 1 pm: Cherry Blossom 7:30 pm: Study Grand Parade Discussion 28 29 30 MAY 1 MAY 2 MAY 3 MAY 4 9:20 am: Quiet Sitting 7 pm: Taiji 10 am: Shoshinge Service 1 pm: Sambo no Tsudoi 6:30 pm: Mindful Meditation

2019年4月 行事予定

7（日） 午前10時 花祭り（釈尊降誕会） 午前11時 写経の会 １3、14、20、21 桜祭り SF 日本町 14（日） 午前10時 祥月法要（英語） 午後1時 祥月法要（日本語） 21（日） 午後1時 桜祭りパレード参加 （ルート：シビックセンター～ポスト＆オクタビア通り） 28（日） 午前10時 正信偈法要（英語） 午後1時 三宝の集い（日本語） 23 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Light of Dharma San Francisco Calif . Permit No. 6273

Buddhist Church of San Francisco 1881 Pine Street San Francisco, CA 94109

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Looking Ahead…

May 12 10 am Gotan-e / Infant Presentation / Hot Dog Lunch May 15 6:30 pm Mindful Meditation; 7:30 Dharma Discussion May 18 10 am – 2pm JCCCNC Japanese Cemetery Cleanup May 19 10 am Sangha Service May 25, 5 pm Evening Metta Service April 2019 May 27 Memorial Day (Office closed)

(See calendar for listing of April services, events & classes.)

Hanamatsuri April 7, 2019, 10 am

Celebrate the Birth of Shakyamuni Buddha