Address At Jisso Center 25th Anniversary, Sep. 2008

September 7, 2008
Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Jisso Center

　　This is my address at the Jisso Center 25th Anniversary Celebration Ceremony titled, "Bright Future Is In Our Hands."

　　As we conclude the Jisso Center 25th Anniversary Celebration Ceremony, I, as Acting Chief of Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Missionary Area, would like to address about how we can proceed toward a bright future. Throughout the speeches presented at this ceremony, I could understand how the construction of Jisso Center was planned and built, and learned that the loving thoughts of many predecessors including Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi, and the fruits of their efforts, sweat, and gratitude led to the construction of Jisso Center and made the Center what it is today. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to every one of them from the bottom of my heart.

　　One of the three major principles of the Seicho-No-Ie teachings is the phenomenal world is a reflection of our mind. It means that our physical body and our destiny are a reflection of our mind and it also means that this building is a reflections of all concerned who worked on its design and construction. Therefore, the loving thoughts of Dr. Taniguchi are resounding, the loving thoughts of International Headquarters are permeating, and a sense of gratitude and joy of all those were enlightened by attending spiritual training seminars and other events held at the Center are resonating throughout the facility. Since the Center is filled with a vibration of joy and gratitude, loving thoughts, everyone who attended an event here is aware of being a child of God, is reborn, and manifests the will of God, which will finally lead to the basics of true world peace.

　　　Throught the dedication of those with a deep awareness of the Truth of Life, and a strong desire to illuminate the life of all humankind, there are many "Seicho-No-Ie" families in Hawaii. Those members sincerely respected and entrusted in Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi, put his teachings into their daily lives, and happily shared the teachings with families, relatives, neighbors, communities, and others.


　　　Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi single-mindedly desired the happiness of all mankind, and the grand harmony of the whole universe, totally devoted himself to God's Humanity Enlightenment Movement, and advanced to a high spiritual world in 1985. His desire was sincerely conveyed to his successor, Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, President of Seicho-No-Ie, and the desire is now conveyed to Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, Vice President of SNI. This transition should be worthy of note.

　　　Then, SNI International Headquarters discussed how to realize Dr. Taniguchi's desire, that is to say, to propagate the teachings to all mankind, and reached the following conclusion: to promote the movement to disseminate the teachings throughout the world in English. As you already know the number of English-speaking population is said to be 1 billion or 1.5 billion worldwide and the language is spoken all over the world. On the contrary, Japanese, the language of SNI's birthplace, is only spoken by 130 million people. If we wholeheartedly want to promote God's Humanity Enlightenment Movement ---- this is a movement to brighten the thought of all human beings ---- we must spread the teachings in English. International Headquarters pondered that it is essential to propagate the teachings in the United States, the country that has the greatest impact on world economy, politics, and all fields, and it is the only way to realize the will of God and the will of Dr. Taniguchi. The Headquarters named the movement "International Peace by Faith Movement" and started it in 1993.

　　　Based on its concept, the International Spiritual Training Center was established in New York, and the International Spiritual Training Seminar or ISTS which is aimed mainly at new- comers started in 1995. ISTS is also an opportunity to nurture leaders to shoulder the propagation in English. Among the 44th ISTSs held so far, Jisso Center offered its facility to 6 ISTSs and welcomed attendees from all over the world.

　　　In the ISTS, we are taking unprecedented steps in the history of SNI. One of them is a change in the rituals and ceremonies. Since SNI was founded and spread in Japan, the procedure of rituals and ceremonies were in line with the Japanese cultural background. To put it simply, SNI adopted the Shinto style because it is the least controversial. In this regard, Dr. Taniguchi taught that "there are no so-called Seicho-No-Ie ceremonies." Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi gave further explanation on this matter as follows: "Notwithstanding the worth of these ritualistic manifestations, the Truth ---- God's message to us which lies behind them ---- far surpasses these manifestations in importance."

　　　Shinto style rituals may be favored by some westerners or others who like the Japanese culture; however, they are not favored by people in China and Korea, and they are not necessarily accepted by the average Americans or Europeans. Therefore, to fit the rituals and ceremonies to the American people, leaders in the U.S., purposely excluded Japanese leaders, and fully discussed and decided to remove the bow and clap when worshipping God. This new method was adopted by the ISTS from the beginning and we started to use this method at English seminars, services, and meetings since this June in the Hawaii Missionary Area .

　　　Please note that these changes have been made to have Dr. Taniguchi's magnificent dream come true, the dream ---- to convey the teachings to all human beings. And also to practice the following teaching; "To express life, a form is always necessary; however, at the same time, we must throw away that form of expression. The same applies to Seicho-No-Ie."

　　　Moreover Dr. Taniguchi contributed to our society, nation, and the world by putting the teachings into practice. The same things are being done by the President and Vice President. What humanity has to deal with urgently right now is the issue of global environment. Nowadays, almost everyone raises this issue including presidential candidates; however, Rev. Masanobu started to touch upon this matter more than 15 years ago. What a foresight he has! Furthermore, SNI is not just a global environment preservation group but a religious group to educate everyone that the whole universe is a manifestation of the life of God. By raising an awareness among people that everything is a manifestation of the life of God, and being a role model for religious practitioners, we believe we can contribute to solving this environmental problem and bequeathing this beautiful earth to the next generation.

　　　In this way, what SNI International Headquarters is carrying out is nothing more than the application of what Dr. Taniguchi taught for this day and age, and when we unite together in harmony based upon their policy as an international family of Seicho-No-Ie, I believe our movement will catch a wave and grow and grow in intensity.

　　　The points I would like to address here is to have you understand correctly what is going on now, return to the basics wholeheartedly, and create a new movement in accordance with the guidance from the current leaders. By doing so, I believe our future becomes much brighter and we can change the world as it should be because we have so many wonderful members and friends in Hawaii and we are all children of God with infinite power and potentiial. This concludes my remarks. Thank you very much for your kind attention.

2008 September Message

To Revere the Center (3)
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief, Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Missionary Area

　　In the July and August issues of this Newsletter, I wrote the articles, "To Revere the Center." This month, I will talk about the Seicho-No-Ie movement in reference to the same title. Reviewing what I mentioned before, the True-Image World created by God has an unshakable center, and when we live life with a mindset to revere the center, our life will be well organized, and a "paradise on earth" ―a manifestation of the True Image World-will appear.

　　As I write this article, it is the opening day of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. In the Olympics, there are several kinds of team competitions such as baseball, volleyball, and soccer. One characteristic of the teams is to be well organized with a manager or captain at the center. Since all the team players should be top-notch, they must direct their individual ideas toward their game plans, however once the game plan is decided, they play in perfect coordination by sincerely carrying out their roles which will lead to their triumphs. It goes without saying that their daily efforts will bear a wonderful result.

　　"God's Humanity Enlightenment Movement" is the movement that Seicho-No-Ie has been promoting since its founding. Its goal is magnificent. Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi envisioned a big dream to enlighten all humanity by disseminating the teachings. In other words, both his and the movement's ultimate goal is to realize world peace through true faith. For this reason, we meditate on the "Prayer for World Peace" whenever we practice Shinsokan and in the opening and closing prayers at our events. Please note that the "Affirmation" is originally also a prayer for world peace. It was revealed to Dr. Taniguchi when he sincerely prayed for world peace when a significant incident occurred in Japan in 1936.

　　Then, what is the center of our movement? Needless to say, it is the will of God. This is why we should sincerely listen to "God's will" with our heart by practicing Shinsokan Meditation every day. However, if individual members were to claim that whatever came to their mind was the will of God, we cannot maintain order in our organization. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary that we have a central figure. Dr. Taniguchi, in order to ensure orderly succession, made it thoroughly clear that after his demise, Seicho-No-Ie will continue to fulfill its aims without losing the center.

　　"Lord of Seicho-No-Ie ― President/Vice President ― Teachings of Seicho-No-Ie. The members of Seicho-No-Ie should never forget the unfoldment of the will of God uniting and permeating the above three as the immutable center of the Enlightenment Movement."
　　This comes from Article Nine of "A Guideline for the Seicho-No-Ie Humanity Enlightenment Movement." Dr. Taniguchi expounded on its meaning as follows; "You should keep in sight what is at the core of the Enlightenment Movement regardless of its expansion over a wide range and increase in the complexity of the propagational areas. As described in this Article, the "Teachings of Seicho-No-Ie" follows "President/Vice President which in turn follows "Lord of Seicho-No-Ie." This indicates the order in which the teachings are passed down from their original source."

　　Some SNI followers say that the President and Vice President of Seicho-No-Ie are not repeating every word and phrase expounded by Dr. Taniguchi. I have to say that this is a view of the fundamentalists and it is NEVER the will of Dr. Taniguchi or the will of God. Dr. Taniguchi wholeheartedly placed his trust in the next President, Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, who inherited the teachings of Seicho-No-Ie, and in the same way, Rev. Seicho Taniguchi has passed them on to his successor, Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, the Vice President.

　　As we deepen our awareness that the will of Dr. Taniguchi is being passed on to the President and Vice President, our movement, under the guidance of Dr. Taniguchi from a high spiritual plane, is moving forward in unfolding the International Peace by Faith Movement to bring about true world peace, hand in hand with Seicho-No-Ie U.S. Missionary Headquarters and Seicho-No-Ie International Headquarters.

Manami's school life (Aug. 2008)

Manami's teacher, Mrs. Amy, sent us further photos that tell me how her life in the school is going on. Photos are very helpful because we can enjoy and share even with my families in Japan. Thank you, Amy!

-TA

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Aloha!
I thought you might like to see some of these- Manami is always very interested in doing the art projects! Enjoy!



This was today at circle time- the children were all showing happy faces when we were talking about feelings.





Experimenting with stamps








This was today- Manami and Taisha using stamps. Each stamp is a face that shows a different feeling.





Manami doing her "Me Collage"- the cut and paste activity where the children looked trough magazines for things they really liked and cut and pasted them on paper. Manami really liked this one!





Manami and Aulani fingerpainting with shaving cream


I couldn't remember if I sent you this one- Manami and Summer were so proud that they traced their names.

Kauai One-day Trip

　　　　Today I went to Kauai island, for the first time, to learn the wonderful SNI teachings, how we should deal with envrionment issue as a practioner of God's love, and so on, with the distinguished members there, and spent a meaningful day.

　　　　This time it was an one-day trip, therefore, I got aboard an airplane that departed 7:15 a.m. Honolulu Airport. That is why I had to leave home 5:30 a.m. A flight time is 15-20 minutes. The island is close to Oahu, however, airplane is only available to come and go to the island. Let me show you some photos.

　　Seicho-No-Ie facility. It is nothing less than "Building in the Green." It was built in 1971.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　Grope Photo

　This is a tree of avocado in the garden of Mr. and Mrs. David Hamada, President of SNI Kauai. He quickly took two pieces of them and gave me as a sourvenir.

　Last one is a move of natural water sprout.



　Mrs. Hamada contributed her impression to SNI Hawaii Newsletter on my visit. Thank you very much for your kindness and hospitality! Here is Mrs. Hamada's Message.
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　　　　The members of Seicho-No-Ie Kauai were honored by the presence of Rev. Tetsuya Abe on Sunday, August 24, 2008, his one-day visit to Kauai.
　　　　The day's activities began with our Sunday Service at 9:30 a.m., with Rev. Abe as guest speaker. Rev. Abe briefly spoke about his life raised in a Seicho-No-Ie home. He fondly mentioned how his grandparents and parents, whose devotion to the teachings had a great spiritual influence in his life. Rev. Abe continued to inspire us as he reminded us that, "God is Absolute and all-powerful.” And when we believe in God with sincere faith, all things are possible. We must also express sincere gratitude to all people and all things, for this is the key to happiness.
　　　　After our Sunday Service we all joined in fellowship and enjoyed a delicious lunch that was prepared by our ladies.
　　　　At our afternoon session, Rev. Abe spent time to explain the reason for the (new) changes in the Seicho-No-Ie rituals and ceremonies as well as changes in our Sunday Service procedures. He also mentioned that the "Future Goals of Seicho-No-Ie” is to implement these necessary changes in order to reach out to the young generation as well as other ethnic groups. He mentioned that we must enforce the realization of "World Peace” through our heartfelt gratitude and sincere love for mankind…and in Truth become one with each other and one with God.
　　　　NO one, not even Rev. Abe, leaves our Garden Island before first taking in some of Kauai's scenic spots. So thanks to our "Hawaiian” tour guide, David "Kawika” Hamada, Rev. Abe was able to experience a little bit of "Beautiful Kauai.”
　　　　Our sincere appreciation, Rev. Abe, for your very inspiring visit to our Center. Thank you very much

-TA

Family Reunion

　　　My younger sister with her husband, 7 year-old, and 3 year-old daughters, came to Hawaii from Japan for sightseeing. We had a very nice time exploring undersea by submarine and dining at a fancy restaurant, and so on.


Though taken against the sun, but this is the only group photo of the day


　　　　　　　　　　　　　Boarding


This is the submarine we took


Everybody was paying attention to the fishes


　　　　　　　　　　　　　Pali Lookout

　　Beacon fire at the restaurant. Whenever I came, I worry about what if those leaves catch the fire...　

Thanks to their visitation, we had a very happy time and enjoyed our company. Thank you! Lastly, let me share a video recorded inside the submarine.



-TA

New Semester

My daughter, Manami, went back to school after a week vacation. During the week, she seemed to miss the classes, teachers, and friends. The school started a new semester from last week, and Manami got a new teacher, Ms. Amy. She is so great, beautiful and attentive that she sent us parents some photos of Manami at her class. We feel very happy to look at them.

Let me share those photos with her comments.
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Here, Manami is working with Summer, Gianna and Taisha at the writing center.




Manami was interested in the play sushi in the home center. We are trying to incorporate things from the Japanese culture into our class. We have kimono and Japanese style food and dishes. We also have some books with Japanese writing and music with both English and Japanese words in our listening center. We want Manami to know that her culture is important and that she truly belongs in our class.




Manami is trying a puzzle. She was able to complete it, and she can identify numbers in English.






Manami likes to work independently and with friends. She was working on puzzles with Kawehi.




Here is Manami with Jalei. This was taken a few weeks ago in Ms. Lois' class. Jalei is still in the 3-year-olds' class, so we don't get to see her very often. She and Manami got along well and used to sit together at lunch.


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Manami is only the Japanese at the school, however, she now enjoys attending classes in English, which I believe will make her huge benefits in the future.

-TA

2008 August Message

To Revere the Center (2)
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
　　Acting Chief, Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Missionary Area

　　Mrs. Cindy Murakami was born in 1938 as the eldest daughter among four siblings in Sendai, in northern Japan. Her family ran a bakery, however her father didn't work seriously. He drank from morning till night and was violent to his family. His wife was so fearful that she could do nothing to improve the situation. In this way, Mrs. Murakami had a difficult time as a child.

　　When she was in high school, she fell in love with an American soldier stationed in the city and married him when she was 19. After their marriage, they came to Hawaii, her husband's birthplace and started a new life. She was 9 months pregnant at that time. They dreamed of a happy life here, however that was not meant to be. Her husband spent lonely days when he was a child because his parents passed away very early. On the other hand, Mrs. Murakami spent hell-like days when she was a child; therefore, they didn't know how to create a happy and cheerful life and divorced less than a year after their marriage.

　　After a few years of sadness, she met her current husband at a coffee shop and got married, and they were immediately blessed with a son. However, their happiness didn't last long. Her husband, who was born and raised as the eldest son of a wealthy family, worked with a sincere attitude, but Mrs. Murakami, lived life with a spirit of defiance, so they could not be on good terms with each other. Now she can see him as an unselfish man with a good heart; however, she considered him as sloppy and spineless at that time. As a result of continuing to treat him with contempt, he gradually stopped providing for his family and started womanizing.

　　She was very disappointed with such a terrible marital relationship and another divorce came to her mind; however, she chose not to for some reason. Seeking salvation, she read various religious books. "I remember in my childhood when my grandma often took me to temples and I had a strong feeling that there was something that would save me," said Mrs. Murakami.

　　She once joined a Japanese religion, but it didn't satisfy her. One day, when she listened to a radio program on KZOO, she was captured by spiritually strong words such as "Man is a child of God" and "You can change your destiny by changing your mind." Having felt that this is exactly what she sought, she called Matlock Center and made an appointment for private counseling.

　　After consultation with resident minister, Rev. Mario Kawakami, she immediately joined SNI. By practicing Shinsokan Meditation and reading SNI books, she was able to solve many problems; however, she still could not be reconciled with her husband and another ten years had passed.

　　"I really want to change my destiny at any price," Mrs. Murakami thought and in the middle of February of this year came to me for private counseling. After listening to her life's story, I told her as follows: "Despite any situation you've encountered, your parents have always deeply loved you but they failed to manifest their love which they must have regretted. Since the center of your family is your ancestors and your husband, if you want to solve your problem in accordance with the SNI teachings, the only way is for you to worship the divinity of your husband and see his True Image. In fact, you do LOVE your husband." I concluded our counseling by encouraging her to attend the 44th International Spiritual Training Seminar (ISTS) to be held at Jisso Center at the end of the month.

　　As she listened to the lectures and practiced Shinsokan and other ceremonies at the ISTS, her feelings toward her husband has gradually changed from hatred to love. Among the attendees was the husband of Rev. Yoshiko Teshigawara, Bishop, who came to Hawaii as a lecturer. She asked him the following question, "What makes a husband the happiest?" His answer was to be accepted and recognized by his wife. His words had a great impact on Mrs. Murakami.

　　Going back home, she started to practice the prayer of reconciliation to her husband and parents in a sincere manner. After a few days of practice, she unknowingly spoke tender words. It was her husband who was astonished and pleased. When she saw his delightful smile, the accumulated hatred and anger in her mind disappeared. Mr. and Mrs. Murakami are now running their own company making Hawaiian dancing dolls and it is a very prosperous business with rush orders. "Heaven comes to my home," said Mrs. Murakami.

　　Whatever your environment or family situation may be, when you revere and take care of the center, everything goes well harmoniously.

　　Special announcement: We will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Jisso Center on Sunday, September 7. Contemplating the significance of Jisso Center, let us make this the opportunity for our Missionary Area to advance God's Humanity Enlightenment Movement - International Peace by Faith Movement. Thank you very much.
(To be continued)

Unknowing Song

　　Manami, my 3-year-old daughter, started to go to preschool from the beginning of this year. She is only the Japanese at the school, therefore, we worried about her and its situation. However, thanks to teachers' appropriate and kind guidance, she's got accustomed to this environment. Nowadays, she sings many English songs, but some of them are not understandable to me. Do you know what song she is singing? Another one she is singing is "Old Mac Donald."

-TA

2008 July Message

July Message
To Revere Center
Rev. Tetsuya Abe, Acting Chief, SNI Hawaii Missionary Area

　　One of the foremost teachings that Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi taught us is to revere the center. What we should place in the center of our life is the "will of God." Dr. Taniguchi taught us Shinsokan Meditation (to visualize God) since the founding of Seicho-No-Ie so that the SNI followers can directly know the will of God and live the life of God.

　　The True-Image World created by God is well organized and in harmony. The world has an unshakable center in that what should be placed on top is up, below is down, and everything is in good order. SNI teaches that there is no evil in the True-Image World, but the so-called “evil” can be defined as the state of being disorganized and in disharmony. Dr. Taniguchi staked his life to manifest the harmonious True-Image World into the phenomenal world by teaching us to revere the center.

　　For each and every one of us to live the life of God by practicing Shinsokan Meditation is important more than anything else; however, if people claim that only the ideas they conceive during Shinsokan are the will of God, chaos will come to our society. Therefore, our father and ancestors should be the center of our family, kings or presidents the center of our country, and this will truly make our homes or organizations function in an orderly and organized way.

　　Let’s suppose there is a family problem. A husband uses offensive language, drinks excessive alcohol outside the home, and seems to be having an affair. Their home is a complete mess. The wife of such a husband comes to Seicho-No-Ie seeking a solution. How should we deal with her?

　　I believe faithful readers of books by Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi and Reverends Seicho and Masanobu Taniguchi already know how to solve the problem. First of all, the wife must show her reverence to her husband and visualize his True Image and see him as a perfect and consummate child of God. And she must reflect upon herself, "Did I look down on him or did I try to understand his feelings?" He might feel very lonely if treated coldly by his wife and other family members.

　　From the perspective of common sense, it is the husband who is to blame. However, from the perspective of "Life," we are each a child of God without exception. Therefore, SNI believes that true salvation will come when she changes her mind from seeing him as a "bad husband" to "wonderful child-of-God husband.”

　　You may be able to practice these measures at home, but it is often the case with SNI testimonies that there is a miraculous improvement in their lives by attending a Spiritual Training Seminar where all attendees come together and intensively practice the SNI teachings.

　　Recently, a woman whose relationship with her husband had deteriorated and on the verge of divorce attended the 44th International Spiritual Training Seminar held at Jisso Center in February 2008. After returning home, she wholeheartedly practiced what she had learned at the seminar. After a while, she was perfectly able to be reconciled with her husband and is now leading what she calls "a heavenly happy life." She is Mrs. Cindy Murakami of Hawaii Kai. (To be continued)

Address(6/15) _1

Hello Everyone!

Thank you very much. Here is my address at Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi's 23rd Memorial Service at Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Jisso Center on July 15th.

Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief, SNI Hawaii Missionary Area

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Thank you very much for coming to Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi’s 23rd Memorial Service in spite of your busy schedules. Today is Father’s Day. It is the perfect opportunity for us to extend our sincere gratitude to our spiritual father, Dr. Taniguchi. Thank you very much.

As you know, Dr. Taniguchi founded Seicho-No-Ie in March 1930 by publishing the inaugural issue of “Seicho-No-Ie” magazine. He was 36 years old and Mrs. Teruko Taniguchi was 33 years old when they founded SNI. It means they were younger than I at that time. Therefore, Dr. Taniguchi’s articles were filled with energy, vitality and vivaciousness as well as inspiration from God.

Although disseminating religious teachings by publishing magazines and books, and even on the internet, is now taken for granted, in those days in Japan, to propagate by publication was considered highly advanced. Moreover, the inaugural issue had many articles which were originally written overseas in English. So for the average Japanese who was not familiar with, or not interested in, foreign affairs, Dr. Taniguchi’s message was not easily understandable. In other words, readers of the magazine needed to be very educated to fully understand his articles.

Therefore, in the early stages of the founding of Seicho-No-Ie, Dr. Taniguchi’s books were mainly read by intellectuals or highly-educated people and spread among them. Especially before World War II, reading of the Truth of Life series was considered proof of a well-cultured Japanese.

Dr. Taniguchi published 1,000 complimentary copies of the “Seicho-No-Ie” magazine and gave 10 or more copies to his friends who seemed to be interested in spiritual affairs or who came to faith meetings sponsored by Dr. Taniguchi, and asked them to distribute those magazines.

After a while, Dr. Taniguchi began receiving some thank-you letters. The people said their diseases were completely healed, or their destinies were really improved, simply by reading the magazine. Dr. Taniguchi was very surprised to see those letters because he had simply written about how we should live with a right outlook on our life. In other words, he published educational magazines for a better life and never dreamed of having such responses.

In addition to publishing the magazines, Dr. Taniguchi opened his home for a reader’s meeting and talked about the SNI way of living. Some of the believers who were impressed by Dr. Taniguchi’s teaching, followed his example and started to hold reader’s meetings in their homes or visited their relatives and friends who suffered from disease or other problems, and talked about Seicho-No-Ie. When they did this, diseases were healed and problems that agonized people were resolved.(To be continued)

Address(6/15)_2

In the early days of SNI, Rev. Niro Hattori was said to be an expert in healing disease by talking about the teachings. He was a prominent sculptor in Japan. However, a magazine for artists stated that despite his excellence in sculpture, it was unfortunate that he was unable to leave lots of works because he spent so much time in religious activities as a topnotch disciple of Dr. Taniguchi.

Rev. Hattori was once detained on suspicion of healing many people’s diseases without authorization because the police thought it was illegal. The police secretly investigated and collected evidence to determine whether those who met Rev. Hattori were truly healed from their illnesses. However, Rev. Hattori responded to the policeman that he never healed diseases. “Those who listened to my talk spontaneously recovered from illness,” he said. This story spread throughout Japan and resulted in very good publicity for Seicho-No-Ie.

Around that time, a magazine called “Shufu-no-Tomo,” or a friend of housewives, which had a large circulation in Japan, featured Seicho-No-Ie and Dr. Taniguchi in their May 1935 issue. The title of the cover story was “To probe the truth of miraculous spiritual healing – what is Truth of Life that heals difficult diseases simply by telling a story.” Dr. Taniguchi was interviewed by a reporter from the magazine.

According to the Seicho-No-Ie fifty-year history book, from the day following the publication of the issue of that magazine, there were long lines in front of the SNI publication company seeking SNI books and magazines and SNI Headquarters received many calls from all over Japan. At the same time, Dr. Taniguchi and Seicho-No-Ie were criticized by educated people saying that it must be fake. To criticize anything that had a great impact on society is the way the world operates.

However, those good days didn’t last long. Japan was heading into World War II. Censorship was getting strict, and any articles that did not support the Japanese military actions could not be published. Paper was strictly controlled. As a result, SNI ceased to publish any books or articles.

Dr. Taniguchi was still giving lectures. However, as the situation of the war worsened, only lectures that stimulated the war were allowed, and he stopped giving lectures. He devoted himself to agricultural activities and worked all day producing cabbage, pumpkin and other vegetables in his yard. (To be continued)

Address(6/15)_3

After the war, Japan was under the control of the General Headquarters (GHQ) of the Allied Forces. Dr. Taniguchi taught that the reason for Japan’s defeat was because they started the war. “If Japan had not begun the war, there would have been no defeat. The Japanese people were conceited, arrogant, and against the will of God,” he said. This message also appears in the divine messages. However, Japanese society was heading in the direction where all the traditional values were denied. There prevailed a nihilistic way of thinking in the Japanese society.

Dr. Taniguchi was really disappointed with the situation and established the “Seicho-No-Ie Shakai Jigyodan,” or SNI Community Service Administration (CSA) to encourage the Japanese people and save them from the devastation of the lost war. Unfortunately the plan itself didn’t work due to the reason I will explain, but there was a wonderful by-product. There was a section in the SNI CSA titled, “Translation of Western literature and documents” to show the general public that SNI is teaching the universal truth. One of the young men who was impressed with the plan and was accepted to work at SNI Headquarters was Mr. Seicho Arachi. His enthusiasm, humbleness, and intelligence impressed Dr. Taniguchi. Eventually, Mr. Arachi got married to Dr. Taniguchi’s daughter and became Rev. Seicho Taniguchi in accordance with the will of God. In the Seicho-No-Ie 40-year history book, Mrs.Teruko Taniguchi recalled that the advent of Seicho Arachi was truly meaningful not only to the Taniguchi family but also to Seicho-No-Ie,.

Since Dr. Taniguchi wrote many articles to manifest his love of Japan, he was temporarily expelled from a public position by GHQ. This is why SNI CSA didn’t work well. However, he could keep on teaching without any title. After his expulsion ended, he could freely preach the central truths through publications and grand lectures. Through his lectures and writings, he provided spiritual awareness, improved people’s destinies and environments, and also taught that all correct religions emanate from one universal
God. He actively communicated with global religious leaders and even met the Pope when he went to Europe. He traveled outside of Japan three times during his lifetime to convey his messages.

However in those days in Japan, as a reaction to losing the war, public opinion was against traditional values including the emperor system, self-hatred historical view was taught in schools, and leftist ideology was spreading. It was Dr. Taniguchi who challenged those trends and encouraged the Japanese people by teaching, “You are a child of God. You don’t have to feel inferior. There are many priceless assets among Japanese traditions. Shintoism has nothing to do with militarism (Note: Shintoism was considered a cause of war),” and so on. This movement was named a movement to manifest the True Image of Japan and continued until Dr. Taniguchi passed away.

Dr. Taniguchi’s wholehearted and tireless efforts had a great impact on various fields of endeavor including politics, business, industry, and religion, and the Japanese people gained confidence in general.

In this way, Dr. Taniguchi focused on disseminating the central truths such as “Man is a child of God,” “Our mind and environment are reflections of our mind,” “All religions emanate from one universal God,” while contributing to solving urgent issues which appeared during his time. A movement to manifest the True Image of Japan was a long-term important issue during Dr. Taniguchi’s life.
(To be continued)

Address(6/15)_4

As we have learned, while Dr. Taniguchi taught and emphasized the basic teachings, he also devoted himself and the SNI organizations to improving the state of society. I would like to ask you to recognize that we promote our movement not because this world is so bad or worsening, but because truth itself is so wonderful and fabulous. If we see evil and impress it in our mind, evil will appear according to the law of mind. We are honored to be given such a wonderful truth from God, therefore, we should share it with as many people as possible rather than monopolize it. Please remember that Rev. Hattori didn’t aim at healing people’s diseases. He only felt sympathy for those suffering from illness, saw their True Image, and talked about the teachings. As a result, it was the disease that ran away and disappeared. This is a very important point, which Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi often pointed out.

Nowadays, the environment, peace and war, and Islam are pressing issues about which people of the world need to unite and work hand in hand. This is why Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, Vice President of SNI, and the SNI worldwide organizations, take these issues seriously and focus on the central truths. This is perfectly in tune with the path adopted by Dr. Taniguchi.

In this way, Dr. Taniguchi continued to preach the truth for 55 years until he passed away on June 17, 1985.

In 1992 I joined SNI International Headquarters in Tokyo. Since then, I have repeatedly taught that we need to think about what the center of our movement should be. Namely, it is the will of God and the will of Dr. Taniguchi, and to convey His will should be our foremost priority. Before all employees at the Headquarters start their daily work, they offer a prayer such as: “Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi and Mrs. Teruko Taniguchi guide us and all humankind from a high spiritual world.”

This attitude comes from Rev. Seicho Taniguchi and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi. Rev. Masanobu mentioned in his address at Dr. Taniguchi’s 20th Memorial Service as follows:

It has been 20 years since Dr. Taniguchi passed away, however, I’ve never felt that he has passed away. When I practice Shinsokan Meditation, and read the Holy Sutra and “the Recitation of Truth” in the morning at home, read his books at the work place, or come to the Main Temple in Nagasaki, I feel Dr. Taniguchi’s ideas filling and permeating the atmosphere. When I visit “Okutsuki,” or Dr. and Mrs. Taniguchi’s grave, I feel I can see and talk to him.

In 2005, I was honored to be assigned to give a presentation at the Special Conference held in Japan. The audience consisted of all ordained and assistant ministers, and the President of the Regional Lecturers Society in each Missionary Area in Japan. Rev. Masanobu very kindly gave me his attention and guidance for my article and presentation. When Rev. Masanobu and the presenters had a meeting for the conference, he repeatedly stated Dr. Taniguchi taught this way or that way. I thought there is no one in the world who reads Dr. Taniguchi’s books or who respects Dr. Taniguchi more than Rev. Masanobu.

Rev. Teshigawara mentioned that whenever she offers a new proposal, Rev. Masanobu asks her, “What are the grounds for your proposal? How did Dr. Taniguchi write about that?” If Rev. Teshigawara could not answer the questions, Rev. Masanobu would instruct her to read Dr. Taniguchi’s writings and look for the grounds.

Through her experience, Rev. Teshigawara often tells us ministers as follows:

The main thing that Rev. Masanobu is thinking and focusing on is how we can apply Dr. Taniguchi’s teachings in this day and age. He doesn’t mind how he, himself, is criticized or evaluated. He only wants to bequeath Dr. Taniguchi’s teachings to the next generation and to as many people as possible and contribute to Dr. Taniguchi’s dream of world peace.

On this important day, I am very grateful to have this opportunity to remember how Dr. Taniguchi dedicated himself to the world, and confirm that his teachings have been perfectly passed on to his successors, the center of our movement. So let us move forward cheerfully and enthusiastically in our movement as a family of SNI International and SNI, Inc.

Thank you very much for your kind attention. Thank you very much.
(End)

2008 June Message

　　Thank you very much, everyone. Living here in Hawaii, I sometimes discover the unexpected. I didn't know until I came here that I could experience the four seasons in tropical Hawaii. I never expected the mornings and nights to be cool in the summer and the days short in the winter.

　　Through my everyday life, I am often overwhelmed by the beauty and magnificence of nature. Among my favorite views are the mountains as seen from the intersection between Kahekili and Likelike Highways, the sea from Kualoa beach which is a ten-minute drive from my home, and the splendid rainbows that can be seen here and there. Without living here, I would not be able to appreciate nature to the fullest. I appreciate God for giving me this opportunity.

　　"Change" is a very important principle for the world of natural growth. Through change, we can savor our life and increase our joy and happiness of living. Conversely, it is only natural that things which do not change will decline or be eliminated. Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi taught as follows in his book, For Young People, “Running water does not become stale: water that stagnates putrefies.” (p. 36)

　　In Seicho-No-Ie we consider "change as a chance." When change occurs, we will see person “A” who considers it a good opportunity to grow and person “B” who thinks it uncomfortable or undesirable. It goes without saying which person will progress. Of course, there are things that should never change. The teaching "Man is a child of God" never changes. However, the way to worship God is a peripheral aspect that can be changed according to people, time, and place. Practicing this is in line with the will of God.

　　I believe all of you readers of this newsletter understand this matter clearly; I would like to ask you to take it as a springboard for SNI Hawaii Missionary Area's further development and do your best both in seeking the Truth and propagating the teachings.
In the midst of writing this message, I went to a bank near Matlock Center, where the following words on a white board caught my eyes : “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” As I left the bank, I felt this message by Andre Gide, French Nobel Prize winner in literature, fits our situation well.

　　Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi always had a dream and showed us how to live the Seicho-No-Ie way of life. And this "path" on how to live the SNI way of life in this day and age is being shown by Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, President of Seicho-No-Ie, and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, Vice President of Seicho-No-Ie.

　　One of the important teachings that Dr. Taniguchi showed us throughout his entire life is not to speak ill of others. (See Truth of Life, Vol 7, Chapter 4) It also includes not to harbor ill thoughts of others in your mind. I believe you are always smiling, seeing the positive side of others, and praising and blessing those points. The more you practice this principle in your life, the happier you yourself will become and that pleases those around you. It is a good advertisement for Seicho-No-Ie. When those who praise and bless each other come to our Services, the atmosphere of our Services will be cheerful and bright, so that even the man-off-the-street will want to come and join us.

　　We will observe the 23rd Memorial Service for Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi at Jisso Center on June 15th. We invite you all to attend. Thank you very much.

2008 May Message

May Message
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief, SNI Hawaii Missionary Area

　　Thank you very much, everyone. As I practice Shinsokan Meditation every morning and meditate on the happiness of all of you who live the will of God and convey the love of God in your daily lives, a sense of gratitude and joy bubbles up from the bottom of my heart. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation for your dedication.

　　This month I have a very important announcement.
　　Effective June 1, 2008, we will eliminate the practice of "two deep bows, two hand claps, and one halfway bow" and substitute the following brief prayer when we worship God at Sunday Services, Spiritual Training Seminars, Truth Realization Seminars, meetings, etc. in the Hawaii Missionary Area.

　　Let us worship the Great Universal Life,
　　　　which dwells in each one of us.
　　We are all children of God, and as such
　　　　we are already endowed with all divine
　　　　attributes.
　　We are all children of the same one and only
　　　　God, and this truly makes us brothers
　　　　and sisters.
　　Thank you very much.

　　Let me explain the reasons for this change.

　　The International Peace by Faith Movement was launched in 1993 and it clearly stated that what Seicho-No-Ie aims for in today's world is "world peace," and that world peace is not achieved through political power nor a check and balance with nuclear weapons, but realized through "faith" in the absolute God. In addition, as an "international movement," it considers various measures to propose and carry out various plans for the movement in each country in a unified and organized manner.

　　However, the purpose and spirit of the International Peace by Faith Movement does not differ from the Humanity Enlightenment Movement which Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi initiated in 1930. In today's movement all SNI leaders and members worldwide as well as SNI International Headquarters are promoting the application of the teachings taught by Dr. Taniguchi to our current society. I sometimes receive a question saying, "I don't like today's movement because it doesn't seem to be in line with Dr. Taniguchi’s teachings." I must say this is a complete misunderstanding. It is the current movement that enlivens the teachings for today’s world situation. Please think of it as manifesting the will of Dr. Taniguchi. It is clearly written in "REALIZING PEACE BY FAITH" by Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi on pages 40 to 48. If you are interested in this booklet, please contact the Office.

　　Having launched the International Peace by Faith Movement, which shows that Seicho-No-Ie teaches that all religions emanate from one universal God, it was decided to review the rituals and ceremonies originating in the Japanese culture and to look for a new form suited to the culture and customs overseas. As a result, "THE FUNDAMENTAL THINKING ON CEREMONIES IN SEICHO-NO-IE" was fully discussed and determined by the U.S. leaders and approved at the Top Level Meeting at International Headquarters in 1994.

　　Based on that decision, new ceremonies and rituals, which were also discussed and determined by non-Japanese leaders, were adopted at the International Spiritual Training Seminars (ISTS) that started in August 1995. As the ISTSs were held at each Missionary Area in North America, the new rituals and ceremonies started to be used at seminars and events held in English in each Missionary Area.

　　The way to worship God by "two bows, two hand claps, and one halfway bow" is a Shinto tradition born in the Japanese culture. Seicho-No-Ie in Japan adopted this way to worship God NOT because it is the Seicho-No-Ie way BUT because it is comfortable with almost all Japanese whether they be Christians or Buddhists.

　　It is a very important change to help newcomers feel comfortable in attending our events, being aligned with other Missionary Areas in the United States, and manifesting the teaching that all religions emanate from one universal God in our rituals and ceremonies.

　　Your deep understanding and cooperation is highly appreciated to move our movement forward in the Hawaii Missionary Area.

2008 April Message

Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief, Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Missionary Area

　　　Shouldn't we always maintain a bright mind? Let us be kind to others. Let us be grateful to the work at present before us. Let us believe that this work contributes to society and the world. Always do good, not so that others may see our works, but that we may live in accordance with the will of God. In addition, respect others and let us respect ourselves as well. All people are children of God. An evil or imperfect person is nowhere to be found. (Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, "Messages of Wisdom and Love," p. 83)

　　　The 44th International Spiritual Training Seminar (ISTS) was held at the SNI Hawaii Jisso Center from February 22 to 24, with Rev. Yoshiko Teshigawara, Bishop of U.S. Missionary Headquarters, Rev. Bruce Mallery, Chief of New York Missionary Area, as well as Rev. Tetsuya Abe and Rev. Leslie Iwatani of Hawaii, staff members, and 50 trainees. We had a truly inspiring and memorable time. It was an opportunity for our members to deepen their faith and get recharged for further propagational activities. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all of you who participated in the seminar and were involved in its preparation and operation. (See article on pp. 2-5)


　　　ISTS was launched in 1995 to disseminate the Seicho-No-Ie teachings in English not only to people in the U.S. but throughout the world. It was based in New York which has a large number of people of diverse backgrounds.

　　　For this purpose, ISTS decided to adopt new ways in rituals and ceremonies so that the average American can feel comfortable not adhering to traditional ways conducted in the respective Missionary Areas. The new procedures were discussed and adopted by ministers and leaders in this country including Rev. Leslie Iwatani, and approved at the Top Level Meeting of International Headquarters.


　　　Since ISTS is open to all people throughout the world, three Japanese-speaking members who usually attend only Japanese seminars participated in this ISTS. Some of them thought, “It is meaningless because I cannot fully understand English” but after the seminar, they unanimously expressed their feelings as follows: "How wonderful the ISTS is. It was beyond my expectations. I will invite others from the Japanese group when we have ISTS the next time in Hawaii." One of the participants who had suffered from domestic and business problems called to tell me that things were getting better and better after the seminar.


　　　In this way, the Spiritual Training Seminar stirs your soul and gives you an opportunity to be reborn as a child of God. God's salvation goes beyond the difference of language and customs. This is because the STS is always guided by God and all participants are children of God.

　　　This year, it will be the 20th year since Mrs. Teruko Taniguchi passed away in April 1989. She worshiped every being as a manifestation of the life of God and Buddha. According to her daughter, Mrs. Emiko Taniguchi, President of SNI White Dove Association, Mrs. Teruko Taniguchi composed the following poem and pinned it on her kitchen wall as a reminder:

　　“Everything Is Precious”　　
　　Things are not just things?
　　They are manifestations of God's life.
　　Use water sparingly.
　　Use fire sparingly.
　　Do not waste even a piece of vegetable? potato, carrot or burdock.
　　Apologize if you crack even a small plate.
　　Remember to extend the life of all things, organic or inorganic.
　　Everything is entrusted to us by God.
　(Emiko Taniguchi, Kokoro no Tabiji,
　　　“Journey of the Mind,” pp.207-208)

　　　April 22nd is Earth Day celebrating Earth and nature that Dr. and Mrs. Taniguchi wholeheartedly loved. The Earth is now being endangered and we are standing at the crossroads whether or not we can leave this beautiful Earth to the next generation. As religious people, let us strive to advance our movement and preserve the environment for our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren under the guidance of Rev. Seicho Taniguchi and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi to realize the will of God. Thank you very much.

2008 March Message

Celebrating the Founding of Seicho-No-Ie
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief, Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Missionary Area

　　　Thank you very much, everyone!

　　　As you already know, March 1, 2008, is the 78th Anniversary of the founding of Seicho-No-Ie. I would like to celebrate this auspicious occasion with all of you and extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi and Mrs. Teruko Taniguchi who gave us the precious teachings and started our Seicho-No-Ie movement.

　　　After being robbed of most of his possessions, Dr. Taniguchi received a revelation from God to "Stand Up Now!" and started to write the inaugural issue of "Seicho-No-Ie" magazine. Mrs. Teruko Taniguchi, wife of Dr. Taniguchi, worried about his adventurous enterprise and expressed her concern to him; however, his resolve was too firm to be changed. In the end, she pledged to wholeheartedly cooperate in his venture.

　　　In her book, Mezameyuku Tamashii, ("Awakening Soul"), Mrs. Taniguchi mentioned the joy of founding Seicho-No-Ie from the perspective of a wife:

　　　After he returned home from Vacuum Oil Company (where Dr. Taniguchi worked) and had dinner, it was time to write for the "Seicho-No-Ie" magazine. My physically fragile husband used to return home exhausted from work. However, without any time to relax, he devoted himself to writing until midnight. Day after day, there were severe cold nights. As many freezing cold nights continued, my husband kept on writing, laying on his stomach in bed. Whenever he was inspired, he concentrated on writing, never thinking about the cold, hunger, or the next day's work. (Partially omitted)

　　　When I saw my husband's joyful expression after he finished writing and editing the magazine, a sense of joy and relief bubbled forth from me.

　　　One thousand copies of the newly printed "Seicho-No-Ie" magazine?what joy! Pure white paper, clearly printed pages, and on the cover stood a strong-muscled man raising a brilliant light. Every single word was a shining word of Truth. I deeply prayed for God to answer my husband's prayer to let the life of the magazine's readers fill with spiritual joy. (Mezameyuku Tamashii, "The Awakening Soul," pp. 65-67)

　　　Seicho-No-Ie's propagational activities initiated by Dr. and Mrs. Taniguchi now expand to about 30 countries and regions, contributing to solving the problems that people today are facing, and continue to brighten their future.

　　　Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, President of Seicho-No-Ie, once taught as follows: The foot of a tall mountain is expansive. By the same token, it is necessary to let as many people as possible know about the existence of Seicho-No-Ie for further development of our movement.

　　　Even though people don't know what "Seicho-No-Ie" is, letting them know the fact that Seicho-No-Ie is wonderful is a great help to us. Just letting them know the name of Seicho-No-Ie will greatly help us because "Seicho-No-Ie" means the "great universe" manifesting the "world of God."

　　　Let's say, some may think it is fruitless to give a Truth of Life magazine to others because there's no one who will come to our service or become a member.

　　　But that is not true. If we sow seeds, they will sprout and bear fruit. In the same way, if we tirelessly propagate the teachings to someone, the seeds of the teachings will surely sprout and yield results. We don't know when it will happen. It may be one year or ten years later, or in the next lifetime.

　　　In November of 2007, 10 of our leaders visited about 200 neighbors to promote the Public Lecture by distributing a packet which included a Truth of Life magazine.

　　　Just three months later, we were pleased to welcome one of the neighbors at our Matlock Center Sunday Service on February 3rd. Seeds planted will surely sprout and bear fruit.

　　　Let us offer our sincere gratitude to Dr. and Mrs. Taniguchi who gave us the teachings and propagate with joy under the guidance of Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, President of Seicho-No-Ie, and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, Vice President of Seicho-No-Ie. Thank you very much.

2008 February Message

Propagation Is Enjoyable!
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief, Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Missionary Area

　　　Thank you very much, everyone.

　　　The 44th International Spiritual Training Seminar at Jisso Center is just around the corner. Those who have not yet signed up, please don't miss this God-given opportunity! We also need and appreciate your help in the kitchen. Thank you very much.

　　　I believe many of you have an experience or two that makes you glad to know Seicho-No-Ie. Then, who introduced you to the Seicho-No-Ie teachings? They may be your parents, siblings, relatives, friends, neighbors, acquaintances at PTA, supervisor at work, and so on; in any case, it is true that someone introduced you to Seicho-No-Ie. Beginning with Dr. and Mrs. Masaharu Taniguchi, the teachings passed through the love of many people before reaching you. It is not a coincidence that you are practicing the teachings and leading a happy life. It is attributed to the grace and love of many people; therefore, you will have a happy life by being grateful to your blessings and sharing your happiness with as many people as possible.

　　　Since I arrived here, thanks to Mrs. Shirley Iwatani's encouragement, I am trying to distribute Truth of Life magazines at supermarkets, restaurants, banks and other places without hesitation. I am very pleased to see that most people accept the magazines with a smile. It is very different from Japan.

　　　I would like to share with you two of my experiences in propagation.

　　　The other day, I talked with a cashier at a nearby supermarket. Her son is now studying in Japan and lives in Matsudo. Matsudo is a city next to Nagareyama where our family lived when we were in Japan, therefore, my wife and I were very surprised to hear the name of the city from a woman who lives in Kaneohe. It is a small world! At the end of our conversation, I gave her a Truth of Life magazine. She immediately cast her eyes on the cover and found the words "Seicho-No-Ie" and pointed out toward Jisso Center, "Seicho-No-Ie? Seicho-No-Ie over there?" I answered, "Yes! I'm a Seicho-No-Ie minister. I arrived here six months ago." Then she said with a very pleasing expression, "Welcome! Welcome to Hawaii! I like this magazine. Thank you!"

　　　In another case, when my family installed solar panels on the roof of our house in Japan in November 2006, I gave a Japanese SNI magazine to Mr. Y who installed the panels. Before and after the installation, I had opportunities to talk with him. Every time I saw him, I talked about the Seicho-No-Ie teachings and mentioned that SNI is now taking action to preserve global environment from a religious perspective.

　　　Although I did not hear from Mr. Y after he finished the job in our house, I recently heard that he attended a Public Lecture conducted by Rev. and Mrs. Masanobu Taniguchi, Vice President of Seicho-No-Ie, in Chiba Prefecture and said that he wants to learn the SNI teachings more deeply by attending a Readers’ Meeting. The reason is that last year, he installed solar panels on the house of a dedicated SNI leader in Chiba. On top of that, the dedicated leader is a respresentative for White Dove Association of Chiba Missionary Area; therefore, she encouraged him to participate in the Public Lecture. I was so impressed to hear this good news.

　　　God showed us in the Divine Message of "Life's Purification Center" revealed through Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi, "To save even one person is truly a great deed in the eyes of God." Anyone who pays attention to propagation and has courage can propagate. And there is no other joy than the joy of conveying the truth.

　　　You who are angels of love, let us pass out Truth of Life magazines at supermarkets, banks, restaurants, and parks with courage. Surely, there is someone waiting for you because God chose you as a messenger to convey the awareness that "everyone is a child of God" and gave you the teachings before all others.

2008 January Message

For a Year of Practicing the "Sundial Way of Life"
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief Hawaii Missionary Area

　　　A Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you are having a happy and cheerful holiday season.

　　　My family and I will spend this holiday season outside of Japan for the first time. (I am writing this article on December 13.) Since I came to Hawaii, I've often felt surprised or awakened because there are many things that I've never experienced before. In other words, I've found different ways of thinking or customs that are not familiar to me. I believe such experiences enrich me spiritually and dramatically elevate my soul. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for this wonderful opportunity and to all the leaders and members who support us.

　　　We are going to have an International Spiritual Training Seminar from February 22 to 24 after three years. It is a great opportunity for us to be spiritually awakened and to learn to improve our daily life. The seminar will be conducted by ordained ministers including Rev. Yoshiko Teshigawara, Bishop of United States Missionary Headquarters. Please be sure not to miss this event and to invite your relatives and friends who live out of state. We also need a kitchen staff of volunteers.

　　　We are fortunate to have an inspiring message from Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, vice president of Seicho-No-Ie, in this newsletter. In his message, he taught us to get back to the basics of the SNI spirit, namely, the "sundial way of life." He means we should not lead a life ruled by desire by focusing on what is inefficient or lacking but lead a life of gratitude for "nature's blessings" or things "we have been given," which is the Seicho-No-Ie way of life. Please read with appreciation his message over and over again.

　　　Based on the guidance by Rev. Taniguchi, let us be a happy family with all family members enlightened by practicing Shinsokan Meditation at least once a day. And let us practice the sundial way of life that concentrates on what is granted, blessed, and positive. And for living an eco-friendly life, I recommend you consider whether or not, whatever you are purchasing, is truly necessary. If you buy what is unnecessary, it is not only an economic burden but also increases rubbish. I've heard that a dedicated SNI member is trying to buy products with an early expiration date so that she can save them from being discarded. And if you turn on the air conditioner, set the temperature at 82 degrees. This kind of "deeds of love" seems small but in large quantities it has the power to change the world.

　　　In the Hawaii Missionary Area, we promoted the "1000 Readings of the Holy Sutra" since January 2005. Thanks to many of our members' participation, words of truth are resounding throughout the Hawaii Missionary Area. Reading the Holy Sutra to our ancestors is highly recommended; however, I would like to end this activity because I am now preparing to begin another activity. I would like to ask for your understanding. Nevertheless, when I receive your performance chart for reading the sutra, I will compile them carefully as before.

　　　I mentioned in the beginning that I am writing this article on December 13; come to think of it, December 13 is the day Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi received a revelation, "Stand up now!" from the Lord of Seicho-No-Ie 79 years ago. Although Dr. Taniguchi received Divine Messages such as "Matter does not exist" or "Only the True-Image World exists," he did not think he could afford to establish an organization to enlighten the world after his retirement at that time. However, when he got robbed twice, he resolved to propagate the Seicho-No-Ie way of life to the world and took immediate action.

　　　Let us be grateful to Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi who wholeheartedly dedicated all his life to propagating the teachings, and to Rev. Seicho Taniguchi and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi who continue to give us the teachings in this modern age. And let us propagate the teachings as Dr. Taniguchi had shown us so that we can establish a true paradise. Thank you very much!

2007 December Message

With Gratitude to the Outgoing Year
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Acting Chief Hawaii Missionary Area

　　　On Sunday, November 11, Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii held a Public Lecture at Ala Moana Hotel with Rev. Yoshiko Teshigawara, Bishop of U.S. Missionary Headquarters, and Rev. Hiei Ando, National Ordained Minister. It was truly a successful event with 130 attendees in the morning and about 90 in the afternoon. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all concerned including attendees and staff.

　　　Before the Public Lecture, the 15th Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii Leaders’ Seminar was held at Jisso Center under the guidance of Rev. Teshigawara, Rev. Ando, Rev. Leslie Iwatani, and myself. About 30 leaders attended the seminar and deepened their awareness of one of the three pillars of the Seicho-No-Ie teachings, "All religions emanate from one universal God." The seminar basically consisted of what we had learned at the Special Conference for World Peace with Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi in New York, namely about Islam.

　　　You can refer to other articles of those events in the Newsletter; however, I would like to mention my personal impression.

　　　At the Leaders’ Seminar, I was in charge of the lecture titled, "Seicho-No-Ie and the Oneness of All Religions." Since Rev. Teshigawara advised me to include an introduction to Islam in my lecture, I studied very hard about Islam even though it was for a short time. By studying about Islam and listening to three other lectures at the seminar, I was reminded of the profoundness, beautifulness and mercifulness of Islam which I learned in New York from Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, vice president of SNI, and Dr. Khaled Abou El Fadl, and I strongly resolved to try to be familiar with Islam as much as possible.

　　　Regarding the Public Lecture, to our surprise and joy, we had an unexpected number of participants, including almost 40 first-timers. Publicizing in The Honolulu Advertiser was a great success; however, I believe creating an attractive flyer, including writing and improving the contents, distributing them with love, and promoting the event to our families, friends, and others also contributed to our success. In addition, a week before the Public Lecture, 10 SNI leaders visited about 200 neighbors on Matlock Ave. and distributed a packet containing a Truth of Life magazine, public lecture flyer, and good-word card. This was also very effective especially from the spiritual point of view. Of course, it goes without saying that the attendees are the greatest contributors to our events.

　　　By the way, we only have one month left to this year. How was this year for you? By recalling what happened to you this year, you will find many happy, encouraging, and grateful things. On the other hand, you may find unhappy, sorrowful, and painful matters. Please reflect upon yourself calmly and be grateful for the positive happenings from the bottom of your heart. And also be grateful to the negative incidents by believing that they polish and train your soul, and elevate you to be a very considerate person.

　　　For myself, it was a year filled with exciting changes. In the first half of the year, I was assigned to Hong Kong and Germany to conduct activities there, and came to Hawaii on June 1st to assume the position of Acting Chief of Hawaii Missionary Area. It seemed to be an unanticipated huge role for me; however, thanks to the love and contribution of our leaders and members, I managed to do my job without any problems so far. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Lord of Seicho-No-Ie, to Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi, Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, and all of you who have provided me with countless and priceless support in various ways.

　　　Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2007 November Message

For our beloved Earth
Rev. Tetsuya Abe,
Acting Chief Hawaii Missionary Area

　　　With the cool morning and evening temperatures, we can feel autumn in the air. My wife and I love this season very much because of the breeze and birds cheerfully singing in the morning as we practice Shinsokan Meditation. Feeling this seasonal change and seeing a beautiful sunset over the magnificent sea, I can sense that "the Earth is alive!"

　　　We will soon have a free Public Lecture on Sunday, November 11 at Ala Moana Hotel. Rev. Yoshiko Teshigawara, Bishop of United States Missionary Headquarters, and Rev. Hiei Ando, National Ordained Minister, will guide us with their inspiring lectures. Please look at the attached flyer once again. Let us share the joy of learning and practicing the teachings with your families, relatives, neighbors, and friends. I am looking forward to seeing you there.

　　　Recently, there was an announcement that this year's Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Al Gore, former U.S. Vice President, and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It is the second time for the Nobel Peace Prize to be awarded to persons who contributed to environmental preservation activities following Wangari Maathai of Kenya, vice minister of environment, in 2004.

　　　In Seicho-No-Ie, Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, vice president of Seicho-No-Ie, continues to teach us that the issue of "Environment, Peace and Resources" has been closely connected for years; therefore, to realize peace by faith, we need to take action to preserve our environment from a religious perspective. Namely, we care for Earth and save energy as a manifestation of deeds of love based upon the teaching of "Be grateful to the whole universe" as stated in "Divine Message of Grand Harmony." I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi who founded the teachings, and strive to put into practice the teachings given in accordance with current situations by Rev. Seicho Taniguchi and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi.

　　　In the Hawaii Missionary Area, we are heading in the direction of focusing on the green issue, thanks to our members’ cooperation. At the leader's seminar held at Jisso Center from August 31st to September 2nd 2007, Gary Tashiro, president of Seicho-No-Ie Hawaii, delivered a wonderful lecture on why Seicho-No-Ie is involved in ecological issues by presenting the message by Rev. Seicho Taniguchi and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi as well as the U.S. movement policy for 2007, and he introduced his family's eco-friendly actions. After his lecture, all participants who were inspired by his lecture discussed what we could do as a group and their ideas were given to Clifford Nishimura, committee chairman of environmental issues in the Missionary Area. In addition, I have heard that our friends on the neighbor islands are now participating in these activities in their own way.

　　　We attended the in-person meetings of the SNI, Inc. Board of Directors at the New Gardena Hotel from October 12 to 14. Among the 22 participants at the meeting were Gary Tashiro, Gordon Ogi, Kevin Ichishita (SNI, Inc. Board members from Hawaii), Rev. Leslie Iwatani and myself. We discussed how to move forward in the International Peace by Faith Movement in the United States.

　　　Rev. Teshigawara taught us in the meetings, "The more we understand the teachings of Seicho-No-Ie and deepen our realization of the truth, the more we will want to do something good for the environment. To practice the teachings and to care for the Earth are one."

　　　How about sharing your experiences to save energy or do something friendly for the Earth? I welcome your comments. Ph: 537-6965, FAX: 524-9026, E-mail: snihi@hawaii.rr.com, Both English and Japanese are available. Thank you very much.

Training

　　　Our household policy for child raring is not to force the child what she doesn't want. However, she is still using a diaper after her three-year-old birthday, we decided to have her take to the bathroom even though she feels annoyed. At first she couldn't pee-pee at all, my wife dared to remove her diaper but put her underpants. As a result our daughter wet her pants as expected, however, after that accident, whenever she wants to go to bathroom she came to call my wife and said that she wants to go there. She seems still to be unwilling to sit on the toilet, its success rate is increasing.

　I have learned through my daughter that a new born baby has an ability to suck on something but cannot eat without learning how to do. What I saw my daughter learning various things step by step impressed me that I was raised like this way and I've been now learning one by one.

　 English didn't emerge from my mouth just after I arrived here and there was a chance that I stopped to say something when I wanted to say actually, but through my situation that I have to communicate with other members in English in my daily work, my English is improving little by little. I appreciate this environment.

　 I recalled the teaching that says "Do Your Best to Fully Utilize the Present Moment" and want to put it into practice in my daily life.

-TA

2007 August Message

Seicho-No-Ie Is Wonderful! Let Us Express Words of Joy!
Rev. Tetsuya Abe
Actind Chief, SNI Hawaii Missionary Area

　　　It has been a month and a half since I arrived here in Hawaii. I cannot find the appropriate words to express my appreciation to you for your heartfelt hospitality and countless support that you have extended to me. On July 6, my wife and 2-year-and-10-month-old daughter happily joined me to start our new life. It is a great pleasure for us to join you to promote our movement that conveys the wonderful Seicho-No-Ie teachings here in Hawaii.

　　　One of the things that impressed me the most since I arrived is that whomever I met kindly said, "Please tell me whatever you need" or "I want to do anything that I can to help you." This fills my heart with a deep sense of gratitude. Again, thank you very much for your kindness.

　　　Well, as you already know, Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi, Holy Master, founded Seicho-No-Ie to enlighten our way of thinking by using the creative power of words which will lead to a happy and cheerful life and in the end realize world peace. Dr. Taniguchi taught about "Power of Words" in Truth of Life, Volume 30 as follows:

　　　As thus mentioned, we need to pay attention to our words. The Bible says that the "Word is God and everything is created by words." In this way, it is true that the key to happiness is in our words. Therefore, it is Seicho-No-Ie's Humanity Enligtenment Movement that stresses the importance of “Words” to use and read only good words. And it lets all mankind know the power of words and to draw out their divine nature with good words.
(Seimei no Jisso "Truth of Life" Vol. 30, p. 10)

　　　For the sake of putting the spirit of Seicho-No-Ie into practice in your daily life, "Sundial Diary" was published at end of last year (Edited by Mrs. Junko Taniguchi, Vice President of the White Dove Association, it is not yet available in English). The diary encourages you to record only what is positive and joyful, and words of gratitude.

　　　Since keeping a diary from the beginning of this year, I feel I’ve become good at finding praiseworthy points in people and things, and in deepening my faith that whatever happens to me is only to elevate my soul. Incidentally, almost everyday I write, "May God's infinite love flows into all members in Hawaii and make them all happy and prosperous" which also gives me a great sense of joy.

　　　So let us record only the good in our minds. And lead a joyful, cheerful and happy life. Then manifest and sincerely extend that to everyone around you! Thank you very much!

Aloha Message!

Aloha! Mahalo Nui Loa! Thank you very much!

　　　I am Rev. Tetsuya Abe and I have been assigned to the Hawaii Missionary Area as Acting Chief to succeed Rev. Shozo Sawa who will be retiring at the end of June.

　　　It is my great pleasure to meet you all. I was in Hawaii in 2000 to attend the 19th International Spiritual Training Seminar at Jisso Center when I was a reporter at the Public Information Department, Seicho-No-Ie International Headquarters. It seems only yesterday that we were greeted by the bright blue sky and radiant smiles of all the members here. By participating in the seminar, I was extremely moved to share the joy of believing in the absolute Goodness of God with people of various cultural backgrounds. Then and there, I had a dream to join the movement, expanding the joy of practicing the teachings of SNI with those in the United States.

　　　After I was transferred to the International Department in 2002, I was assigned to support leaders in Europe and South Korea, attending many seminars as the minister representing International Headquarters. I met many wonderful members at the Spiritual Training Seminars and Leaders Seminars held in South Korea and Europe, as well as Readers Meetings and Leaders Seminar in Hong Kong. At these seminars, we studied together the basic teachings of SNI such as, "Man is a child of God," "Our environment is a reflection of our mind," and "All religions emanate from one universal God" and shared the joy of practicing the teachings with the attendees. Through these experiences, I have gained an invaluable spiritual asset that encouraged me to propagate the teachings of SNI in the global arena.

　　　Now, I am honored to join you here in Hawaii as a person responsible to promote the Humanity Enlightenment Movement-International Peace-by-Faith Movement. I would like to keep in mind the fact that the SNI movement in Hawaii has a long, valuable history and there are many distinguished senior members who have dedicated themselves. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to them as well as to Rev. Shozo Sawa who has given priceless guidance and Rev. Leslie Iwatani who has long contributed to the movement here.

　　　I will strive to develop our movement and make as many people as possible happy by deeply awakening to the basic teaching that we are children of God as taught by Dr. Masaharu Taniguchi, studying the teachings as delivered according to current situations by Rev. Seicho Taniguchi, President of SNI, and Rev. Masanobu Taniguchi, Vice President, and following the guidance given by Rev. Yoshiko Teshigawara, Bishop of U.S. Missionary Headquarters.

　　　Actually, since the day I arrived at Honolulu Airport, I have felt like I AM already an AMERICAN and a HAWAIIAN. Let us join hands and promote the International Peace-by-Faith Movement in a bright and cheerful manner. Thank you very much! Mahalo Nui Loa!