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Vol. 19
Tanabata Japanese Tea Ceremony
July 5th, 2026 at the San Francisco Center
On Sunday, July 5, the Shumei San Francisco Center welcomed guests for its annual Tanabata Japanese Tea Ceremony. Participants enjoyed a light Japanese meal, traditional matcha and sweets, and experienced the beauty of the tea ceremony while reflecting on the spiritual meaning of Tanabata—the Star Festival—as a time to express gratitude, set heartfelt intentions, and deepen their connection with the Divine.
The peaceful gathering offered a meaningful opportunity to appreciate Japanese culture and tradition while sharing an afternoon of harmony, beauty, and reflection.
Japanology Fair
July 18th, 2026 at the Pasadena Center
On July 18, the Pasadena Center partnered with the Japonology Fair to share the beauty of Japanese culture with the local community, welcoming nearly 300 visitors throughout the day. Guests enjoyed a variety of interactive booths, including the Tea Experience, Japanese Calligraphy, Kimono, and other cultural exhibits. We also introduced Wholesome Essence Natural Agriculture by serving rice balls and miso soup made with our Natural Agriculture Miso. For the first time at this event, we also offered Jyorei to visitors interested in experiencing its healing light. It was a joyful day of cultural exchange, new connections, and sharing the values that inspire our community.
24th Pennsylvania Center Anniversary Celebration
July 19th, 2026 at the Pennsylvania Center
The 24th Pennsylvania Center Anniversary Celebration was held on July 19, and the ceremony was led by our director, Sensei Alan Imai. Meishusama Poems are “Art”, which was page 104. A total of 75 people, including 15 online participants, attended. We were deeply grateful to receive abundant Divine Light and to celebrate this joyful occasion together. In his message, Sensei Alan Imai shared a special talk about Oneness that had previously been shared only at Crestone Center. His heartfelt message deeply touched everyone in attendance.
The younger generation played an active role throughout the ceremony. Narumi and Kana served on the Offering Team, Haydn gave a beautiful violin performance, and Jackie shared an inspiring testimony. Iroha Taiko also presented a wonderful performance. For lunch, everyone enjoyed delicious homemade dishes prepared by our members using fresh vegetables grown through Natural Agriculture. In the afternoon, participants toured the Legacy Farm fields. At the same time, a special exhibition entitled “A Heart that Seeks Beauty”, featuring personal items that Kaishusama actually used. It was a rare and precious opportunity to experience Kaishusama’s deep sense of beauty.
We sincerely are grateful for the many blessings we received throughout this memorable anniversary celebration.
The 2nd Anniversary Celebration of the Portland Home Center
July 19th, 2026 at the Portland Home Center
On Sunday, July 19th, we held our 2nd Anniversary Celebration, welcoming Sensei Eugene and his wife, as well as Sensei Jim. We were blessed with a record-breaking turnout of 35 attendees in total, including local members and those traveling from Pasadena, Seattle, Texas, and Arizona, alongside participants joining us online via Zoom.
The official ceremony featured chantings, Jyorei, an initiation ceremony, and the presentation of Basic Study Class completion certificates. Sensei Eugene then shared an inspiring message and story about living in the present moment, accepting everything, and expecting nothing. The morning program concluded with a video presentation on the Miho Belmont MINKA, a heartfelt expression of gratitude from Kay Sasaki, and a beautiful song dedicated to Kaishusama performed by the choir group “Voice.”
The afternoon session was equally delightful. Attendees enjoyed a traditional Japanese tea ceremony featuring a hanging scroll with the calligraphy of “Ro” (Dew), a barbecue in the garden, and a fundraising raffle, with everyone staying to enjoy the festivities until late afternoon.
Throughout the entire day, the center was filled with a bright, peaceful energy, allowing us to truly feel Meishu-sama’s divine light. We look forward to continuing to cherish and nurture this wonderful community together.
Inori Taiko Holds Its First Workshop
July 19th, 2026 at the San Francisco Center
Inori Taiko is a newly formed taiko group at the Shumei San Francisco Center dedicated to sharing prayer, gratitude, and harmony through the art of taiko. On Sunday, July 19, Inori Taiko held its first workshop, welcoming special guest instructor Steven Tokunaga, founder of Makoto Taiko, who guided participants in the fundamentals of taiko and its spirit.
The workshop was a joyful and inspiring beginning, bringing everyone together through rhythm and unity. We are grateful to all who participated and look forward to sharing the spirit of Inori Taiko with our community.
TOC