May 2022

I am very encouraged by the decrease in severity and hospitalizations from the Covid variant. Across the spectrum, many Ukrainians suffer from the devastating loss of their homes and country. I believe this travesty has only strengthened the people’s spirits and unity. Recently, I read Rev. Marvin Harada’s reflections on this war. He describes how Buddhism throughout history has responded to war. While there have been attacks on Buddhist monks, statues, and artifacts, Rev. Harada believes that despite the destruction of the physical manifestations of Buddhism, the Dharma could not be destroyed because it resides in our hearts. With the Ukrainians, their spirit and resolve for unity reside in their hearts. You can read Rev. Harada’s article entitled “Reflections on the Invasion of Ukraine” in the April 2022 Wheel of Dharma or at the buddhistchurchesofamerica.org website.

This year, the Placer Buddhist Church will celebrate its 120th Anniversary. Our temple in downtown Penryn was established in 1902 and was later relocated to our current location in 1965. In October, we will celebrate our Anniversary with a service and luncheon. Ministers who have served our temple during the past five years have been invited to join our celebration. Please look for more information in the upcoming news bulletin. We look forward to seeing everyone.

On March 27th, PBC hosted its first in-person Shotsuki Hoyo service for 2022 with over 40 members attending. Sensei Koichi Mizushima gave an engaging Dharma message on Ohigan and the Six Paramitas. Members from the Reno Howakai attended virtually. Our Hanamatsuri service was held on Sunday, April 24^th, with guest minister Patti Oshita, from Sacramento. Many of us know Rev. Patti and welcomed her back to our temple. Thank you, Susie Strom, Michi Mitani, Rich Kawahata, Claudia Nakata, and Tomoko Matsuda for setting up the Hanamido. We also appreciate the donations of flowers.

On Saturday, May 7th, PBC will host the 18th Annual Golf Tournament at the Lincoln Hills Golf Club. This very popular event took only 10 days to fill the maximum field of 144 players. Many thanks to the Golf Tournament committee consisting of Bruce Yamashiro, Rich Kawahata, Doris Mar, René Yamashiro, David Unruhe, Myra Okasaki, Lydia Maggio, Ed Nakamoto, David Oseto, and Yvonne Yoshikawa. A more detailed article will be published in the June news bulletin. Photos will be posted to the church website for a limited time.

We look forward to our wine tasting event on Saturday, June 18^th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. René Yamashiro, Joanie Nishimoto, and Bob Nishimoto have volunteered to organize the event. This fun event is popular. It attracts many out-of-town participants. Everyone can relax, socialize, and enjoy wonderful wines from local vintners. Please refer to the May news bulletin for details of this exciting event and reserve your spot.

At the March PBC Board meeting, we decided to cancel our Food Bazaar normally held at the end of September. We have received many inquiries from the community about this popular event. The Board felt that the time, resources, and manpower to host this event were not feasible for 2022. We agreed to evaluate whether we can host the event or a modified event in 2023.

Video and CD Donations - The Placer Buddhist Church has received a generous donation of Japanese VHS tapes and CDs from Marvin Nakamoto of Sacramento. They have been placed in the lobby of our temple. Please feel free to look and take items you would like to view at home.

We are fortunate to begin reopening our temple to our members and our community. We are excited to welcome Eric Pickering to our Sangha, and Tom Aust to the PBC Board of Directors. Thank you to everyone for your continued support and we look forward to seeing you soon at our activities!

In Gassho,

Allan Yamashiro, PBC President