May 2012

Men's Groups Start Pilgrimages to Rissho Kosei-kai Headquarters

A total of 1,266 men from 60 Dharma centers across Japan made pilgrimages to Rissho Kosei-kai headquarters in Tokyo on May 26 and 27. It was the first pilgrimage of the year by Rissho Kosei-kai's Men's Groups. More men's groups will make pilgrimages there in July and August.

On May 26, some members stayed at the Second Group Pilgrimage Hall and attended optional programs, such as a talk on current issues by Mr. Naoki Kazama, a member of the Democratic Party of Japan in the House of Councilors, the upper house of the Japanese parliament.

On May 27 the pilgrims attended a ceremony in the Great Sacred Hall. After sutra recitation led by Rev. Hirotomo Suzuki, director of the Dharma Missions Bureau, the leader of the Men's Group of the Shimonoseki Dharma Center in Yamaguchi Prefecture testified to his faith. He described being guided to membership in Rissho Kosei-kai by his brother-in-law (now deceased) and how he put heart and soul into the sutra recitation and other activities at his Dharma center. He said his friendship with a fellow member with terminal cancer showed him the importance of living positively. Finally, expressing his thanks for his two good friends in the Dharma, he pledged to rededicate himself to the practice of the Buddha's teachings and provide positive encounters with others.

After that Rev. Kazuaki Kakeba, Rissho Kosei-kai's advisor on Dharma missions, delivered an address. He said all people receive life from their parents and the Buddha. He explained that people follow the Buddha's wishes by dedicating themselves to liberating others and contributing to world peace, and by being warmhearted. To liberate others, he said, it is necessary to listen carefully to them and revere their buddha-nature. He said these actions can give the latter hope and peace of mind.

Members then participated in hoza sessions in the Great Sacred Hall for exchanges among members of different Dharma centers.

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