Our temple roof is finally getting a facelift. The contractor spent 7 days tearing off the old material and preparing the roof for new concrete tiles which will be installed after our Obon Festival. After the roof is completed, a painting contractor will give the entire exterior of the temple a new look. The roof and painting projects are in preparation for our 100th Anniversary next February.

Our retreat facilities will be occupied in July by a group of 6th graders from Saishin Dojo in Los Angeles followed by high school students from Fresno known as “Camping in the Sierras.” Saishin Dojo has been coming to SLO for 39 years while Camping in the Sierras, 4 years. They both like the area and “remoteness” of our temple. The 6th graders have asked to be involved in a service project for the temple while they are here.

Besides our 100th Anniversary next year, other temples/churches in Buddhist Churches of America’s (BCA) Coast District will also be celebrating mile-stones: Watsonville Buddhist Temple 120 years in October 2026; and San Jose Buddhist Church and Betsuin 125 years next year. Many churches choose to celebrate milestones (not just 100 years) to recognize those elderly members who are still alive and who contributed to the growth of their church.

Our Obon Festival is just around the corner and if this cool weather continues through the summer, we will have perfect conditions like last year. We will try not to run out of food early and although we will not be having kendo demonstration or ikebana displays, we be entertained by hula dancers, taiko performers and of course, our Bon Odori participants (you). Please see the attached flyer.

Gassho,
Gary Hongo