Every second and fourth Sunday there is a modified Sunday Family Service while students attend Dharma School. Students from pre-school through high school are welcome and could join at any time.
We start with the ringing of the Kansho bell which is a call that service will begin. This is the time to settle down and clear our minds to prepare for service. Please remember to silence your cell phones and make sure any electronic devices are put away.
The chairperson will give an opening greeting and introduction, and then announce the Sutra Chanting, which is led by the minister
The chairperson will announce the first Gatha, a Buddhist song for the Sangha to sing. The page number will be given for the Sangha to follow along in the service book.
The Minister will lead a reading of the Golden Chain and follow this with a Dharma talk, specifically for the Dharma School students.
After the Dharma talk, the Dharma School students will offer incense in front of the altar and proceed to their classes.
As the student begin class, the Minister will continue their Dharma talk to the adults.
The Sangha will sing another Gatha. There may be a “Gatha Practice” where one or two of the temple members will lead the congregation in a new Gatha, which will be sung several times.
The Chairperson will provide thanks to those who helped with the altar set-up, donated refreshments or any special altar offerings, etc. They will also welcome any newcomers to service and make announcements.
“ASK REV. DENNIS” – The Sangha will be encouraged to ask the minister, Rev. Dennis Fujimoto, any questions they may have about Buddhism, the altar, etc. This give the Dharma School students more time in class.
The Chairperson will provide closing remarks. The Sangha will then be asked to offer incense in front of the altar, greet the minister, and file out of the temple to the social hall for refreshments.
