30 Aug Gratitude
Obon Lantern Gratitude
Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s Obon and Bon Odori such a meaningful gathering.
This year, 170 memorial lanterns were displayed in honor of loved ones who have passed before us. We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported our Obon Lanterns fundraiser and helped make this beautiful tradition possible.
As evening fell and we gathered for Bon Odori, the softly glowing lanterns served as a reminder of those who continue to live in our hearts and in our gratitude. Dancing beneath the lanterns is one of the most moving traditions of our Obon, connecting us with those who came before us as we gather together in joy and remembrance.
San Bu Jo
Just before Bon Odori began, Rev. Dennis Fujimoto led us in the San Bu Jo, the threefold calling of the Buddha. As we chanted together, flower petals were tossed into the air, creating a beautiful and symbolic beginning to our evening of dance and remembrance.
The flower petals used during the ceremony were generously donated by Torchio Nursery and Jane Naito. We are deeply grateful for their kindness and support of this meaningful tradition.
The Meaning of Dana
As we begin the temple’s major electrical upgrade, the practice of Dana – of selfless giving comes to mind. The temple is so fortunate for our members and friends who have supported the temple on our many capital improvement projects throughout the years. The generosity of our community helps ensure the temple remains a safe and welcoming place for the Sangha and the wider community for many years to come.
To everyone who contributed, we offer our heartfelt appreciation—and we extend a special thank you to Francie Farinet for her extraordinary donation toward the electrical upgrade. Francie and her numerous four-legged friends have been close members of our temple for many years. She now lives in Cayucos but continues to support the temple—including her ongoing gifts of delicious coffee for our temple use throughout the year and at bazaar time. Her generous donation toward the electrical project is a beautiful expression of compassion and commitment to our community. We receive this gift with sincere gratitude and gassho, recognizing that every contribution—large and small—reflects our shared spirit of working together to sustain the temple for future generations.
In Gratitude and Remembrance
Many of our members and friends will remember Reverend Zuikei Taniguchi, who served as our resident minister for over 30 years. In May, friends, family and Temple members gathered to share memories and honor Rev. Taniguchi’s life and legacy.
In gratitude for the Temple’s support in hosting this special gathering, the Taniguchi family has generously donated the koden they received to our Temple.
We thank the Taniguchi family for their generosity.
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