Spring Ohigan Service

Spring Ohigan Service

Sunday, March 14, 2010, 10 a.m.

Twice each year, during the spring equinox and fall equinox, we observe the Higan-E. During these times of the year, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold and is thought to be the ideal time to focus our thoughts on the Buddha’s teachings and special emphasis is placed on the Six Paramitas. What are they? Listed below (Sanskrit on the left and English equivalent on the right), they are as follows:

Dana – (selfless) Giving; being helpful to others
Sila – Discipline; following the Buddha’s precepts
Ksanti – Patience; being patient & understanding
Virya – Endeavor; doing my best in all things
Dhyana – Meditation; reflecting on the Buddha’s Teachings;
and Prajna – Wisdom; seeking the light of wisdom

Practicing each of these faithfully, to the letter, each and every day of our lives can be most difficult (actually impossible for us as humans, because we have a tendency to err or forget to keep focused); therefore, as Jodo Shinshu followers, we TRY our best but we know that by following the Nembutsu Way, Amida will help us to attain Nirvana at the time of our passing.

Coming to share his thoughts with us on March 14th is Reverend Michael Endo, Executive Assistant to the Socho. He will give a short Dharma talk for our younger students at the first service and then in both Japanese and English for the older students and adults at the service that follows.

Please take advantage of this opportunity to hear Rev. Endo speak and join us for this important service. We hope for excellent attendance. As always, we will appreciate your special service donations that are an important part of our annual operating income.