December 2021

It is hard to believe how quickly we are approaching the end of 2021. While many social gatherings appear to have started anew, the BCA temples have proceeded cautiously, mindful that the Covid virus still lurks around the unsuspecting. Yet through this stifling pandemic, I am amazed how adaptive we have been wearing masks, distancing socially, becoming vaccinated, and expanding our use of electronic media to communicate.

As we look to the new year, the Board is discussing how we can reintroduce normal activities at the temple. I realize that many of you may still be concerned about attending social gatherings. This may be a slow process, but I hope that, over time, you will feel confident to return and attend Dharma services and social activities.

While working on plans to reopen, we are also faced with a shortage of ministerial staff and minister’s assistants across the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA). The pandemic has prevented travel of candidates to Japan who are seeking ordination at the Hongwanji. Currently, two full time ministers support the Northern California District of 7 temples. As a group, we are working with the BCA and affiliated temples to provide support for temples and services. Thank you to all who have contributed to Dharma Forward campaign to support education of future Jodo Shinshu ministerial leaders. We appreciate your patience as we work through these challenges.

Here are a few things happening around the temple:

Did you know that Placer Buddhist Church celebrates its 120th Anniversary? An Anniversary committee met to begin planning for activities which will be scheduled in October of 2022. We will let you know when we solidify our plans. Also, please do not forget to order your Shogatsu Chicken this year and the delicious Chow Mein. We encourage you to send in your orders early to reserve your meals. I thank Ed Nakamoto and his cooking team for organizing this event.

Monthly, the Garden Group continues to volunteer time to manicure the landscape around the pond and surrounding areas. Hiroshi Matsuda recently showed before-and-after pictures which demonstrated a remarkable difference before work began until now. We also plan to improve the landscape at entrance of the temple and ground around the Bodhi tree. Did you know our climate is typically unsuitable for the Bodhi tree, but our tree seems to flourish? Helene Nakamura, with her Obon Dance Exercise class, practice twice monthly on Fridays. If you are interested, please contact Helene (hnakamur1@gmail.com). The Taiko group expects to begin regular practices starting in March of 2022 for beginners and adults. If you are interested, please contact Tara Gee at placerumetaiko@gmail.com.

As our pandemic situation improves, we will keep you apprised when Dharma services begin. PBC also supports members of the Reno Howakai, and we will look at how we can continue to assist the Reno members. Please have a joyous and safe holiday season with your families! As always, please feel free to contact me at 916-295- 3246 or allan.yamashiro@placerbuddhistchurch.org if you have suggestions or concerns.

In Gassho,

Allan Yamashiro, PBC President