October 2009

Anniversary of Nichiren's Death Commemorated

Rissho Kosei-kai commemorated the 728th anniversary of the death of the 13th-century Japanese Buddhist priest Nichiren with a memorial service at its Former Headquarters in Tokyo. The event celebrated the memory of Nichiren's sacred work of disseminating the Lotus Sutra in the face of severe persecution. Some 80 leaders and staff members at the organization's headquarters, including President Nichiko Niwano, President-designate Kosho Niwano, and Rev. Yasutaka Watanabe, chair of the board of trustees, were present.

The service began with the chanting of the Lotus Sutra led by President-designate Niwano, after which she recited a prayer of merit transference composed by President Niwano, in front of the image of the Eternal Buddha Shakyamuni enshrined in the hall of worship.

President Niwano then gave a Dharma talk. He spoke about the significance of remembering Nichiren's aspiration for seeking the Way and his vow to disseminate the teachings of the Lotus Sutra worldwide in the belief that "one heaven and the four seas are attributed to the Wonderful Dharma." He recalled that Founder Niwano began emulating the spirit of Nichiren in his thirties, guided many people to the Lotus Sutra, founded Rissho Kosei-kai, and widely promoted interreligious cooperation.

In conclusion, President Niwano mentioned the presentation of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize to U.S. President Barack Obama, saying this set off the recent groundswell of hope for world peace in the international community. President Niwano emphasized that Rissho Kosei-kai would do its part to help reach that goal. He encouraged everyone present to proclaim their mission to contribute to world peace.

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