Letter Regarding Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan
Thursday, March 17th, 2011Dear Myohoji Hokkeko Members,
As you know, many people in the region of East Japan lost their precious lives due to the strongest earthquake ever recorded there and the giant tsunami on March 11th. I offer my sincere prayers to the Gohonzon for the peace and happiness of the deceased victims. I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the victims who lost their family members and friends.
I believe that Japan, supported by people around the world, will rebuild the country, even though it may be a long journey. Let’s pray to the Gohonzon that they will be able to overcome this current, unprecedented disaster.
Nichiren Shoshu was able to make contact with all the Nichiren Shoshu temples in the East Japan region on March 16th, and confirmed that they all are safe. The Hokkeko Federation in Japan is still working to find the status of the Hokkeko members in the region of East Japan. Let’s chant Daimoku for their safety.
Shodai:
Because of the critical situation in Japan, Myohoji Temple will conduct special Shodai sessions at the temple for the victims. It will begin today, and will be held daily through the end of April. Those of you who cannot come to Myohoji, please chant Daimoku in your homes. The special Shodai sessions shall be held as follows:
- One hour of Daimoku shall be chanted following evening Gongyo every day.
- Every Sunday from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM we will conduct a two-hour Shodai session.
Contributions:
If you wish to make a contribution for the victims, please write “For Earthquake victims” on your Gokuyo envelope when you offer your Gokuyo to the temple. Checks should be made payable to NST or Nichiren Shoshu Temple. We will send your sincere donations to the victims through the Head Temple.
A magnitude 6.4 earthquake hit Fujinomiya City near the Head Temple on the night of March 15th, but there was no damage at the Head Temple.
Thank you very much for your heartfelt support for the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan.
Sincerely,
Rev. Taishin Takano
Chief Priest
NST Myohoji Temple