Our hearts and minds go out to those who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and treasured structures and belongings in the Maui fires.

August 9 was our annual Peace Walk from Hawaii Betsuin to the Nagasaki Peace Bell Memorial near Honolulu Hale. We gathered first in the Hawaii Betsuin hondo, where Rimban Yuika Hasebe opened her aspiration with words of compassion for those suffering on Maui. On our silent walk, each step was an aspiration for relieving suffering of those affected by the fires as well as an aspiration for peace in the world.

There is great interest in coming together as an extended Hongwanji sangha in this time of need for Lahaina Hongwanji and Maui communities. Discussions are underway for a statewide Hongwanji effort, and we expect to be able to share information on that very soon. Mahalo nui loa for your expressions of concern and desire to help. 🙏 More soon.

Namo Amida Butsu

This item originally appeared as a post on our Facebook page.