SLOBC’s recent Hanamatsuri service and pot-luck luncheon was a great success. All Jodo Shinshu temples celebrate this joyous occasion recognizing the birth of Prince Siddartha Gautama who later became Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical buddha. Our ser-vice was well attended and featured a skit (prepared readings) by our Dharma School students. There was an abundance of food of different forms and tastes.

Our Hanamatsuri was followed 6 days later by a Harumatsuri, or Spring Festival, put on by Cal Poly’s Japanese Students Association (JSA), Nikkei Student Union and Hui O Hawaii. This first attempt at promoting the Japanese culture in the spring attracted more than 200 people. Lighted chochin lanterns, taiko performances, modern music presentations and delicious food provide a perfect evening celebration at SLO Buddhist Church.

On Saturday, March 28th, we lost a long-time member who was instrumental in the growth of the church. Don Okano passed away after a year and a half of hospital stays and assisted living care. I first met Don in 2013 when I moved to the area and started getting involved with SLOBC. I was impressed with his handyman skills and his dedication to fixing things at the church. I appreciated his leadership chairing our Obon Festival and later, handling parking duties. I also got to know his “brother” Alan Demmons who looked after Don during the last 18 months of his life.

If you look at May’s calendar, you will notice few non-SLOBC activities being held at the temple. We have been able to allow outside organizations to use our facilities and only ask that they are covered by liability insurance, agree to abide by our Facilities Use Agreement, and give an orei or donation to the church. K9 Noseworks (dog sniffing ) will host a competition here for the second year; CalPoly JSA, a “soubetsukai” (ceremony recognizing seniors graduating from the university) for the second year; and Cal Poly’s Registrar’s Office for a one-day Retreat.

I recently attended a conference held at the Fresno Buddhist Church and Betsuin and was immediately impressed with the new temple and beautiful gardens, many cherry blossom trees, a tall pagoda, and huge bonsho (ceremonial bell). The temple looks like an alien spaceship from one direction or the shoulder boards of clothing worn by men of feudal Japanese nobility. The interior of the temple is tiered with theater type seating and is spacious but still leaves you with an intimate feeling. If you’re ever in the Fresno area, I recommend you stop by to see this beautiful temple.

Gassho,
Gary Hongo