September 2011

Rissho Kosei-kai Commemorates 54th Anniversary of Cofounder Naganuma's Death

On September 10, Rissho Kosei-kai observed the 54th anniversary of the death of Cofounder Myoko Naganuma, in the Great Sacred Hall at its headquarters in Tokyo as well as its Dharma centers across Japan. Some 3,300 members attended the memorial service in the Great Sacred Hall.

Cofounder Myoko Naganuma devoted her life to the practice of compassion and generosity based on the teachings of the Lotus Sutra. After the organization's founding she gave spiritual guidance to many members, working jointly with Founder Nikkyo Niwano. Her deep faith in the Lotus Sutra won members' admiration, and she continues to be revered by many members as a "compassionate mother."

The service in the Great Sacred Hall began with 16 young women members offering flowers at the altar before the statue of the Eternal Buddha Shakyamuni. Then a recording of a Dharma talk by the cofounder was played. After that, President-designate Kosho Niwano led the sutra recitation and read out a tribute to the cofounder by President Nichiko Niwano.

Then Rev. Yasunori Azuma, minister of the Funabashi Dharma Center in Chiba Prefecture, testified to his experience of the faith; a hymn was sung in honor of the cofounder; and President Niwano gave a Dharma talk.

The president explained the law of dependent origination, saying all things are mutually sustaining. He spoke of the importance of accepting with gratitude everything that happens, without complaint. He said the secret of a joyful and happy life is living according to the Dharma and the Truth, and that this is the only way to learn how precious life is.

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