the Padma BERKELEY BUDDHIST TEMPLE

November 2010 Web Edition

Our Vision A Community Where Our Spiritual Life And True Self Can Be Realized

Our Mission

To Live A Life Of Joy In The Nembutsu And Share The Dharma With Others

November 2010 t h e P a d m a

BERKELEY BUDDHIST TEMPLE 2121 Channing Way, Berkeley, California 94704 (510) 841-1356 WEB EDITION

Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat 31

9:30 am Comb Dharma Family/ Shotsuki Hoyo Svc 11:00 am BBWA Cabinet Mtg for November

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6 Nat’l Council Planning

Mtg @ San Mateo 4:00 pm

Temple Discovery Tour

5:30 – 8:30 pm

7 9:30 am Dharma Family Svc

Keiro Kai Potluck Luncheon Following Svc

8

9Crafts

10 am – 1 pm

Temple Board Mtg. 7:30 pm

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14 9:30 am Ho-onko Service Gst spkr Rev. Jerry Hirano BBWA Sushi & Crafts Fundraiser

(Honen & Shinran Performance

@ Zellerbach 3:00 pm)

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Padma Newsletter 6:30 pm

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18

BD Council Meeting @ San Francisco

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21 9:30 am Dharma Family Svc Interfaith Panel on

“Death & Dying”

22 23 Crafts

10 am – 1 pm

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THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY

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28 9:30 am Comb Dharma Family/ Shotsuki Hoyo Svc

29 30

NOTE: For temple matters, please contact Rev. Matsumoto at (510) 841-1356, or leave a message on the temple answering machine. Temple web: www.berkeleysangha.org

Temple e-mail: info@berkeleysangha.org

FUTURE DATES TO REMEMBER November 6 - Dharma School Discovery Tour November 7 - DFS & Keiro Kai luncheon November 14 - Ho-on-ko service and BBWA Sushi/

Crafts/Unagi Bento fundraiser November 21 - DFS & Interfaith Dialogue on "Death and Dying" November 28 - DFS & Shotsuki Hoyo December 5 - Bodhi Day service & Pasta Luncheon December 12 - DFS & Shotsuki Hoyo December 19 - Temple clean-up

Death ... and Birth

When we are called to awaken by the Buddha – the “parent” of our true life – the horizon of our heart and mind is opened up to reveal a world that transcends birth-and-death.1

SHINRAN SHŌNIN HAD AN ORDINARY DEATH. According to his great-grandson, Kakunyo (1270-1351), Shinran's life ended on the 28th day of the 11th month of 1262. As he lay with his head on a pillow, grieving followers were by his side. Amida Buddha did not come welcome him to the Pure Land. Nor did purple clouds or other auspicious signs appear. Kakunyo simply states, “saying the nembutsu, he took his last breath.”2

As we gather to express our gratitude and reverence for Shinran Shōnin during Hōonkō, it is not really his physical death that we recall. His death, much like his birth, was an ordinary one. Yet, his very ordinariness is significant, I believe. For the life of this ordinary person reveals something profound and vital in our own lives: Our physical birth and death are important, to be sure. However, being able to die and be born in a spiritual sense, like Shinran, will allow us to live truly.

What does “spiritual death and birth” mean? Let us consider Shinran’s life once again. After his mother and father died, he became a Buddhist monk at the age of nine. He then spent twenty years on Mount Hiei, trying to attain enlightenment. Yet all of his efforts failed and in despair he left the mountain and the only life that he had ever known. All of his hopes and dreams, his plans and expectations, were destroyed. His life, spiritually, was coming to an end. And yet, that fact allowed him to enter a new life. At the age of 29 Shinran met his teacher Hōnen who taught him the way of the nembutsu. It was then that Shinran was born into a new world, a world revealed to him as he abandoned his ego-attachment and took refuge in the Vow of Amida. With the death of his old life, he deeply entrusted in the Vow and immediately attained birth in a new, spiritual realm.

Shinran Shōnin's life—his spiritual death and birth—demonstrate that the same thing can happen in our lives. When we become free of the clutches of our ego-driven arrogance and entrust ourselves completely to the Buddha’s compassionate Vow, we enter into a new life. As Kakehashi-sensei says, "the horizon of our heart and mind is opened up to reveal a world that transcends birth-and-death."

We awaken to a life fully embraced by the Oneness of all things, and when this ordinary human life ends we will fully return to Oneness—to the Pure Land of the Buddha. This means that death is no longer a problem. Rather, true and authentic life becomes our vow and our reality, here and now. Our ego and pride can no longer hinder us from living with freedom, peace and understanding.

I guess that this is what it means to be a "born-again" Buddhist. "Spiritual death" does not mean that we disappear or leave this world and all of its problems behind. Nor does “spiritual birth” mean that we are born into a different physical world. Rather, we are born into a new world without leaving this world. This is the same world as before, its burdens and problems unchanged. But at the same time, we have changed and those burdens can now become opportunities for us to see ourselves truly and live our lives fully.

Our spiritual birth into the world of the Primal Vow is not something that occurs only in another place after we die. Rather, in the midst of our ordinary lives, the compassion of infinite life embraces us, saves us from ourselves, and allows us to live our true lives, here and now, in peace and freedom. This, I believe, is what Shinran Shōnin teaches us. And it is why we gather to express our gratitude and reverence to him during Hōonkō.

Namu Amida Butsu Rev. David Matsumoto

November 2010

1 .Kakehashi Jitsuen, The Shin Buddhist View of Birth-and-death: the path transcending life and death (San Francisco, BCA, 1999). 2 Kakunyo Shōnin, Shinran Shōnin denne (A Pictorial Biography of Shinran, Master of the Hongwanji)

A Century Of Gratitude And Joy

Nearly 100 years ago, 73 Berkeley residents formed the Berkeley Young Men's Buddhist Association. Under the guidance of Reverend Gyodo Haguri, an inaugural service was held on May 10, 1911 at the Odd Fellows Hotel. This marked the modest beginnings of the Berkeley Buddhist Temple which would later impart its broad and pervasive influence on the future of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in America.

The Berkeley Buddhist Temple will be commemorating its 100th Anniversary next year. The Centennial Committee has been planning a very meaningful way to observe and celebrate a momentous occasion in our temple's history. Thank you to all who have generously contributed to the Centennial fund. If you have not yet had the

opportunity, we would very much appreciate your kind consideration in helping us build for the next century.

Metta,

Scott Takeda

100th Anniversary Service

October 22, 2011 Berkeley Buddhist Temple

100th Anniversary Luncheon and Program

October 22, 2011 Marriott Hotel, Oakland

BBT History Who was the temple’s first minister?

Hint: initials are K.N.

Reverend Keisai Nagai became the temple’s first resident minister in 1918. Meetings were held in private homes until 1921 when a semi-permanent quarter was established at the Chitose Hotel on Channing Way and Ellsworth Street. Our current site at 2121 Channing Way was purchased in 1921.

Edythe was our guest speaker for our Eshinni/ Kakushinni service. Her dharma talks included a manga story of Shinran and Eshinni’s life and passages read from Eshinni’s third letter. If you would like to watch a playback of her talks, visit our bbtupdates channel on youtube.

Daijo (Hongwanji Magazine) Manga Serial Shinran Shonin’s Wife, Eshinni

When Shinran Shonin lived in Echigo, he married the daughter of an important samurai. His wife’s name was Eshinni.

Meet our Minister’s Assistants

Edythe Vassall

Bachelor of Science in Art Education, New York University

Administrative Assistant, BCA Center for Buddhist Education

Certified as a BCA Minister’s Assistant, March 2009

Edythe has a keen interest in samurai movies and has an extensive collection of Akira Kurosawa and Toshiro Mifune films. She is passionate about Japanese art, crafts, and culture. Her goal is to become fluent in Japanese, even if it takes forever.

Our Temple A Place To Begin… A Place To Grow

Our Path

The path of Enlightenment, the way of Oneness

Shotsuki Hoyo Service – November 28, 2010, 9:30 AM

The following persons will be remembered during the Shotsuki Hoyo (monthly memorial service) for November.

Yoshiko Adachi Isamu Doi Shizuko Fukada Chie Fukunaga Ayako Hino Chiyo Hirose

Eddie Kay Hitomi Rae Imamura Haruko Inadomi Isao Ishikawa George Ishino Sunae Ishino Seiichi Kami Sumiko Kawaguchi Shizuko Kawakami

Hatsuye Konishi Fusayo Kono Fujino Kosakura Ayako Kurakazu Tetsuo Kurihara Waiko Lindquist Haruno Marutani Sumie Matsubara Masakazu Miyamoto

Misuko Miyamoto Sadie Haruko Mizusaki George Morishige Hayao Nakagawa Shigeru Oki Shizuko Oki

Uhachi Okubo Tadahiro Sam Sameshima Joseph Sasaki Kunikazu Sasaki Joe Shimada Yasue Shimada

Kayo Shinoda Kiyoaki Shinoda Kazuyoshi Sumisaki Wayne T. Sumisaki Toshie Takahashi Ben Takao

Chizuko Mae Tanaka Yukiye Terazawa Chio Tominaga Mitsuo Melvin Tominaga Aileen Asako Tsukada Kizo Umawatari

Fumiye Uyeshima Milton S.Wakayama Ben T.Wakaye Nellie Wralstad Tosao Yamada Miyeko Yoshimura

Note: If there are any additions, corrections or deletions to the above list, please notify the Berkeley Buddhist Temple at 510-841-1356.

COMBINED DHARMA FAMILY SERVICE &

SHOTSUKI MEMORIAL SERVICE November 28, 2010

9:30 am

Who Are “We” and Who Are “They”?

By Diane Ames

Buddhism teaches that the self, the “I,” is ultimately an illusion, a mental construct. When we say

“we,” we are extending the (illusory) self to envelope other people with whom we identify. “They”

applies to people we consider the Other. Thus it makes a great difference whether another person is

one of “us” or one of “them.” Even when one of “us” behaves badly, we are able to judge that

person as an individual, whereas misbehavior on the part of one of “them” generally confirms all

our suspicions about “them.” To illustrate:

Once an elderly Caucasian woman told me that she had feared and mistrusted

African-Americans all her life because when she was eight years old, an African-American girl

broke her nose. Her brother later said that when he was little, another white boy broke his nose in

an apparently similar attack. (It was a pretty tough neighborhood.) Yet he did not develop any

lifelong fear of white people. How can we explain this?

On April 19, 1995, the Federal Building in Oklahoma City was blown up by a terrorist,

causing 168 deaths, hundreds of injuries, and damage to everything within sixteen blocks. It was a

major terrorist attack by any standards. At least four members of the extremist militia movement

were involved. Yet we saw no national panic, no mass detentions, no vigilante groups patrolling

neighborhoods. Instead there was a national sigh of relief when it turned out that the bomber was a

Euro-American with an Irish name and, best of all, not a Moslem. There was no foreign threat after

all, just a bit of mass murder by some of us.

On September 11, 2001, nineteen terrorists identified as foreign Islamic extremists

destroyed, among other things, the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York, causing

2,997 deaths, thousands of injuries, and much damage to downtown Manhattan. This plunged the

nation into indescribable hysteria. People turned in their neighbors just for being Middle Eastern

immigrants, and the neighbors were taken away. Mosques were firebombed because all Moslems

were Them. Even today, demagogues are able to stir up a national paroxysm of hatred over a

Moslem conspiracy to build a mosque and, just think, worship, near the Hallowed Ground of the

attacks. Manhattan must henceforth be reserved for Us, not Them.

It is surely worth remembering that “we” and “them” are finally just as much mental

constructs as “I”and “you.” Yes, it is worth remembering before we all kill each other.

DHARMA FAMILY SERVICE &

KEIRO KAI POTLUCK

November 7, 2010 9:30 AM

Keiro Kai Potluck lunch immediately following the service. Please check your toban month in

the Temple Directory for your potluck offering and duties. Temple members aged 77 or older (or will turn 77 this year) are invited to the Keiro Kai

luncheon and will not have to bring a lunch dish for the potluck.

Keiro Kai Potluck Schedule

OCTOBER, DECEMBER ......................SALADS OCTOBER........................SERVE NOVEMBER............ONIGIRI & RICE DISHES DECEMBER ...................SET-UP ALL OTHER MONTHS ..............MAIN DISHES NOVEMBER............ CLEAN-UP

HO-ON-KO SERVICE

November 14, 2010 9:30 AM

REV. JERRY HIRANO, guest speaker

Tea Time and BBWA Sushi & Crafts Sale following service

BERKELEY BUDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION September 2010 Meeting Minutes

PRESENT: Sara Jotoku (proxy), Emi Matsunaga, Marrie Yamashita (proxy), Fumi Matsubara, Yuki Otake, Caroline Fernandez (proxy), Maya Murashima-Yonemura (proxy), Diane Ames, Sally Takeda, Chiyo Fujinaga (proxy), Miki Adachi MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: Yuki Otake opened the meeting with gassho on September 12, 2010 at 11:40 AM. PREVIOUS MINUTES: Miki Adachi submitted the July minutes, which were approved. TREASURER’S REPORT: Emi Matsunaga submitted a written report for July and August 2010 giving the total income and total expenses for this period, which was approved.

MEMBERSHIP REPORT: Diane Ames reported • 57 members have paid in 2010. The following members paid their 2010 dues in June: Nora Hataye, Nobuko Nishikado, Marie

Shiromoto, Mieko Taketa, Opal Wakayama. The following members paid in July: Ami Oki, Mitsuko Okimoto, Betsy S Ishida. • Chiyo Fujinaga (proxy): no report.

CORRESPONDENCE: Maya Murashima-Yonemura (proxy) • None DONATIONS as reported in the July and August Treasurer’s Report: • None

UNFINISHED BUSINESS • June 27, 2010 Bishops Memorial Service at Colma. It was approved to give $25 gas reimbursements to the drivers: Scott Takeda,

Eugene Otake, Marrie Yamashita, and Rev. Matsumoto. • Sushi class: Yuki Otake’s concern is that the kitchen may not be available due to the remodeling. Yuki will consult with Alan Hirahara

for available 2011 dates. This class may include sushi-making for kids too. • Dates to Remember:

• Oct. 9, 2010: Federation delegates conference in Sacramento. Yuki Otake and Sara Jotoku plan to attend. • Workshops will include discussions of the Monshu’s book, “Buddha’s Wish for the World”.

• Oct. 16, 2010 Saturday: Bay District Conference at Enmanji Buddhist Temple in Sebastopol. • Theme will be “Today’s Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Women”. Emiko Katsumoto and Reverend Patti Oshita will be two of the

panelists. There is an admission charge. Yuki Otake, Sara Jotoku, Sally Takeda to attend. • Nov. 7 Rescheduled Keiro Kai, members over 77 years of age, luncheon due to unfinished BBT kitchen construction.

• Yuki Otake to verify invitees with Maya Murashima-Yonemura before sending out invitations in October. • Publicity to be put in October Padma by Sept. 21. • Sara Jotoku to shop for gifts to present.

• Nov. 21, 2010: Interfaith Dialogue on “Death and Dying” updated by Diane Ames. Diane has now found all panelists. • Proposed topic for next interfaith dialogue, “Evolving Role of Women”.

• BBWA Questionnaire: To help increase BBWA membership, will be submitted for Sept. Padma. A collection box will be put in temple’s foyer for the completed questionnaires. An announcement will be made at a Dharma school service in Sept.

NEW BUSINESS: Yuki Otake reported • Approved scholarship award to Diana Thompson, Ministerial Asst., traveling to Japan for her Tokudo. Amount to be determined. • Approved scholarship award to Matthew Hamasaki, first year IBS student. Amount to be determined. • October 2, 2010 BBT Picnic at the Richmond Country Club: BBWA usually donates $200-$300. • October 17, 2010: Eshinni/Kakushinni celebration. Discussed if BBWA to provide a light lunch after service. • November 14, 2010: Ho-on-ko, which is the same day as the Honen and Shinran play. BBWA to sell sushi and crafts. • December 5, 2010: Bodhi Day service. The 100th Centennial committee to have their fundraiser. • Federation of Buddhist Women’s Assoc. Conference may be in Seattle, WA in 2016. • Federation of Buddhist Women’s Assoc. Conference may be in San Francisco in 2019, approximately 4,000 attendees. NEXT MEETING: October 3, 2010. MEETING ADJOURNED: Yuki Otake ended the meeting by leading us in gassho at 12:10 PM. Respectfully Submitted

Miki Adachi Recording Secretary

TEL: (510) 841-1356 FAX: (510) 841-1435

Berkeley Buddhist Temple 2121 Channing Way Berkeley, CA 94704

October 19, 2010 Dear Members and Friends of the Temple, The Fall season is upon us and we hope you are enjoying the brisk weather and changing leaves. On November 14, 2010 the Berkeley Buddhist Temple will be observing HO-ON-KO (Feast of Thanksgiving and Gratitude) commemorating the attainment of Nirvana by Shinran Shonin who handed down to us the teachings of the Buddha. For this year’s service we are fortunate to have Rev. Jerry Hirano of the Salt Lake City Buddhist Temple for our guest speaker. We hope you will attend the HO-ON-KO family service on November 14, 2010 at 9:30 AM. There will be a coffee social in the social hall following the service and the Berkeley Buddhist Women's Association will be having a Sushi/Crafts/Unagi Bento Sale fundraiser as well. Please put in your orders and support them. The Temple would appreciate your special donation for HO-ON-KO. An envelope is attached for your convenience. In gassho, Berkeley Buddhist Temple

Dharma School Newsletter November 2010

 

JASEB / JSEI 2010! It was a beautiful day at the Richmond Marina. BBT had about 20 people who volunteered to help out JSEI at their fundraiser by walking the 3 mile course. We had even more people who made pledges! Thanks to all who helped out this worthwhile organization that also makes contributions to our Dharma School!

 

 

Upcoming Dharma School Events

October 2010 Sunday, 10/31 – Dharma Family Service / Shotsuki Hoyo & Classroom Time

November 2010 Saturday, 11/6 – Special Dharma School Passport Workshop at 5:30pm. Arrive at 5:15pm. Sunday, 11/7 – Dharma Family Service – No Classes Sunday, 11/14 – Hoonko & Classroom Time Sunday, 11/21 – Dharma Family Service & Bodhi Day Practice Sunday, 11/28 – Dharma School Field Trip – stay tuned for more information  

 

This is a KIDS ONLY workshop. Parents are invited to go out on a “hot date,” enjoy a movie or have a night out on the town!

Extended evening care (until 9:00) is available if needed. Please see Karen Kato, Joyce Oishi or Mimi Kagehiro for details.

COME ONE, COME ALL!!!

Kindergarten through High School students

are invited to the Second Berkeley Buddhist

TEMPLE DISCOVERY

TOUR!!!

Saturday, November 6, 2010 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Reverend David Matsumoto

will be your guide on this exciting adventure!

You will learn the Hows and Whys of Buddhism through fun and meaningful

activities with other kids.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover your Buddhist roots!

(What is missing in this picture?) General Outline of Program: 5:30 - Opening Session 6:00 – Evening Meal 6:30 – Group Activities 7:45 – Break 7:45 – 8:30 – Closing Service

BERKELEY BUDDHIST TEMPLE Board of Directors Meeting

September 14, 2010

Attendance: Scott Takeda, Rev. Dr. Matsumoto, Lucy Hamai, Patricia, Emiko Katsumoto, Kiyoshi , Judy Kono, Masami Mayeda, Emi Nakao, Takashi Nikaidoh, Yuki Otake, Wayne Sugihara, Yosh Tokiwa, David Ushijima and Marrie Yamashita. Proxies from: Art Nishimura, Dina Honda, Jon Kawamoto. Observing: Gary Oda President Scott Takeda called the meeting to order at 7:27 pm with opening Gassho led by Rev Matsumoto. Minutes were accepted (m/s Judy Kono & Emiko Katsumoto) Minister’s Report: Report submitted. Services, Meetings & Other Activities (July 13 - September 14, 2010) 7/13:Board Meeting; 7/15: Taigekai, "Death & Birth" BBT; 7/18: DF Service, BBT; 7/18: Family Memorial Service,Sunset View Mausoleum; 7/22: BDMA Meeting, San Mateo BT; 7/23: BCA Endowment Foundation Meeting, JSC; 7/24: Family Memorial Service, BBT; 7/24: Visitation & Consultation, Home; 0/25: DF & Shotsuki Memorial Service, JSC; 7/28: Family Memorial Service, BBT; 7/31: Family Memorial Service, Home; 8/01: Family Memorial Service, BBT; 8/03: CBE "Waking up to the Dharma," JSC; 8/05: Meeting with Rev. Hasegawa and others, Stockton Buddhist Temple; 8/06: IBS Trustees Meeting, JSC; 8/07: Correspondence Course Workshop, JSC; 8/10-13: BCAMA Fuken (Summer Seminar), Reno; 8/14: Consultation, BBT; 8/14: Funeral Service, BC of Oakland; 8/14: Interment Service, Sunset View Cemetery; 8/19: Meeting with Kyoto Joshi Koko officials, JSC & BBT; 8/20: Meeting with Rev. Kadono; CBE seminar, JSC; 8/26: Consultation, JSC; 8/28: Makuragyo Service, Assisted Living Facility; 8/29: Shotsuki Memorial Service, BBT; 8/31: Transition Team Meeting, BBT; 9/03: FAC Meeting, BBT; 9/07: [Beginning of IBS Fall Semester]; 9/08: Interment Service, Sunset View Cemetery; 9/08: Family Memorial Service, BBT; 9/11: Consultation, BBT; 9/12: DFS, first day of Dharma School, JSC; 9/12: Memorial (Funeral) Service, Home; 9/14: Board Meeting Upcoming Events and Activities: 9/19: Fall Ohigan Service, BBT; 9/23: BD Ministers Assn Meeting, SACBC; 9/24-26: In Vancouver, BC, Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada, Shinran Shonin 750th Commemorative Gathering; 9/26: DFS & Shotsuki Memorial Service, Ms. Diana Thompson, guest speaker; 10/02: Temple Picnic; 10/03: Eitaikyo Service, BBT; 10/10: DFS, BBT; 10/10: San Mateo Buddhist Temple Centennial Luncheon Treasurer’s Report: Satoshi Steimetz submitted a written report for 7/1/10 through 8/31/10 giving the total income and total expenses. He also submitted the income and expenses by category for 1/1/10 through 8/31/10. President Scott Takeda noted that the report did not reflect an additional $48,000.00 income from the Bazaar. He also noted that the Centennial fund was held separately from the general fund and that accounted for the general fund numbers being less than projected. Correspondence: The correspondence binder was passed around. Eddie Moriguchi, JBSC - Sonkei Compaign; Pritha Medra, USPO Intelligent Mail Services; Ralph Lee, US Census Bureau – Thank you letter; Michael Meehan, BPD – Alum response; Rev. Masao Kodami, Senshin BT – Rev. Hoshin Fujikado Memerial Scholarship; Alice Ho & Valerio, Asian Accents – Eden Holiday Craft Show; Zoe Tamaki – Thank You card; Tamiko Escalante, Relay For Life – Thank You card; Numata Center – Michibiki; BDK – A Teaching A Day REPORTS BY AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS BBWA: A Womens ‘Bay District Conference will be held on 10/15, the topic is Jodo Shinshu Women, Speakers include Rev. Dr. Shoyo Taneguchi and the Panel includes Emiko Katsumoto. Federation of Buddhist Women’s Associations delegates meeting on 10/9, in Sacramento. A fundraiser of Sushi and Crafts was requested for Bodhi Day, which was considered a conflict with the Dharma School fundraiser for the same day and Hoonko, 11/14, was suggested as an alternate date. 11/7 suggested as Kadokai service. Dharma School: “The Three Treasures” & Temple Etiquette will be the themes for September & October. The theme for November & December will be “The Golden Chain”. Fundraiser on Bodhi Day. Jr. YBA: No report. JASEB: Yosh Tokiwa reported Diane Wong started as Director of YASEB. Kimberley, who works at the center, decided to stay on, rather than leaving JASEB. 9/18 at the united Methodist Church there will be a discussion of the book “Wherever There Is A Fight” 9/26 is the Walkathon. 9/25 an exhibit on Japanese American floral business called “blossoms & thorns” at the Richmond art center. 10/9 Buena Vista center program called “What Are You Going to Do When You Reach 100?” STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS Religious Committee: Art Nishimura submitted an updated service schedule. Rev. Matsumoto noted that the Taigekai Thursday sessions to move to Sundays starting in October. Service program changes were discussed, including who will prepare the program each week. Service etiquette sheets were drafted for use in the temple. Pledge/Membership: Report submitted. 144 of 237 Family Memberships and 218 of 310 Individual Memberships.

Building Maintenance: No Report. Kiyoshi Katsumoto suggested that the blacktop be built up around the side entrance to the Hondo to keep water out during the rainy season. He noted that it would take two bags of materials for a cost of $14.50 and that he would perform the work. Garden Maintenance: Sod and planting added around Founder’s Rock. Apartments: There was a vacancy in the Channing Way Apartments, A Studio, which was filled, for its asking price of $995.00. The Temple received a reimbursement check for $4952.00 There is a vacancy in the Fulton Apartment, Studio apartment is available for $950.00. Centennial: Emiko Katsumoto reported that the cabinets will be installed this week and the countertops next week. Venting system for the Hondo has been installed, with new lights, stair units and a screen for non-religious use of the Temple. Scott reported that the Kitchen should be ready for use after 10/31, after the Fire Marshall inspection. Nomination: Takashi Nikaidoh reported that Susan Gabriel, Ron Hiraga, Dina Honda, Denise Lapidus, Millie O’Connor, Dii Lewis & Don Hamasaki, have accepted nominations. Gary Oda is considering accepting his nomination Transition Team: Kiyoshi Katsumoto reported that the committee, Emi Nakao, Lucy Hamai, Judy Kono, Dennis Okamura, Kiyoshi Katsumoto & Rev. Matsumoto met on 8/31, to talk about the issues and named some potential candidates, who were contacted, but no one has agreed to serving. PROPOSALS: Rev. Matsumoto distributed a handout indicating the average costs and fees incurred by IBS Students for two semesters and proposed that the Board authorize funding for the existing IBS students, who are members of Berkeley Buddhist Temple. Matt Hamasaki was mentioned as being a special student, changing his status to a regular student after next semester. Kiyoshi Katsumoto suggested that a committee be formed to research the matter of ongoing support for such students and make recommendations to the Board. It was noted by Yuki that the BBWA was also interested in supporting students in a similar way. President Scott Takeda noted that a committee would be appointed. Edythe Vassall is attending a MAP program in September, and Rev. Matsumoto suggested that the Board authorize the payment of Registration Fees in the amount of $150.00. The Board approved supporting Edythe for the full amount of the Registration Fee. Diana Thompson is going to Japan for Tokudo ordination and Rev. Matsumoto suggested that the Temple support her with a donation. The issue of the Temple helping with the expense of her robes was brought up, but not considered. It was also suggested that the Temple support asking individual members to support Diana. The Board approved a gift for her trip to Japan, (m/s) Emiko Katsumoto & Yuki Otake. Kiyoshi Katsumoto (M/S) Patricia, amended the motion to include an announcement for a request for additional funds from the Sangha It was decided to present her with the gift on September 26, 2010. A member approached Scott to obtain a niche at Sunset Cemetery in the Mausoleum. An outlay of $42.000.00 is needed to cut up the section into individual niches, for which the Temple has right of first refusal with Sunset for the section. It was noted that this offer was presented to the members of the Temple in the Padma. Gary Oda suggested that proper marketing of such an opportunity might be the best way to spark interest. It was noted that these niches were on the top of the section. Patricia felt that, as this situation has been previously discussed, we might not want to revisit this. The Temple Picnic on 10/2 at the Richmond Country Club was approved an expense of $200.00 for prizes for bingo and other games. The issue of a Sustaining Membership level was revisited. ANNOUNCEMENTS: The Honen and Shinran program will take place at UC Berkeley Zellerbach Hall on 11/14/10 at 3 pm. Emiko ordered 21 tickets at a reduced rate. Family Conference: Judy Kono reported that there will be a one day Bay District Family Conference on 11/5/11, in Oakland, with a planning meeting to be held in either January or February. There is a Bay District Council Meeting on 11/18 in San Francisco and churches are being asked to submit a name for second vice president of the District Counsel. Director-At-Large nominations are also being considered. There is a Bay District National planning meeting on meeting on 11/6 in San Mateo. Art Nishimura, his wife and Rev. Matsumoto and his wife will be representing our Temple at the San Mateo Buddhist Church’s Centennial Luncheon and presenting a gift of $100.00 in honor of that event. Budget requests are required to be submitted by the end of September. Amy Ware asked if it was possible to contact seniors to arrange rides to Berkeley during the week, as needed. Refreshments for September: Lena Yin & Marrie Yamashita. October: Yuki Otake Meeting was adjourned at 9:34 pm with closing Gassho led by Rev. Matsumoto Respectfully submitted with Gassho, Wayne Sugihara [If further clarification of these minutes is needed, please contact a Board member.]

Berkeley Buddhist Women’s Association

Sushi and Crafts Sale

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Unagi Donburi ($7.00) Spam Musubi ($2.50)

And of course, Sushi ($5.00)

Pre-orders requested by November 3, 2010

Handmade Crafts will also be available for sale. Support the BBWA in its annual fundraising event!

---------------------------------------------detach and mail-------------------------------------------

Name__________________________________Phone Number______________ Quantity [ ] Unagi Donburi ($7.00) Total $______________

[ ] Sushi ($5.00) Total $______________

[ ] Spam Musubi ($2.50) Total $______________

Total due $______________

Please make check payable to BBWA and mail form and payment to:

Emi Matsunaga Berkeley Buddhist Women’s Association

2121 Channing Way Berkeley CA 94704

Temple Happenings

9th Annual Nikkei Walk It was a great day for the scenic walk at Marina Bay Park. The event helps raise funds for J-Sei (formerly JASEB) as well as supporting organizations.

Thank You …to Karen Kato and the Dharma School for organizing the BBT Team and providing lunch. …to everyone for their support of J-Sei and the Dharma School.

Temple Picnic We had a fun gathering of 74 people for our annual picnic. After the cool, breezy morning, the weather turned out nice. Everyone enjoyed swimming, ring toss, the delicious hamburgers, hot dogs, salads and desserts. We also played BINGO and everyone was a WINNER.

Thank You …to Mak Oto for reserving the Richmond Country Club (RCC) for us; …to Denise Lapidus for her help coordinating with RCC; …to Denise Lapidus, Karen Sugiyama, Pat Takeda, George and Lena Yin for set-up, grilling and clean-up; …to Lena Yin for organizing the event and purchasing the food and prizes.

Eshinni/Kakushinni Service Thank you to the BBWA for hosting a wonderful service and luncheon. Larger photos can be seen in the e-Edition

Berkeley Buddhist Temple expresses condolences and deep sympathy

To the Hamamoto Family

for the loss of husband and father,

Kiyoaki Hamamoto

Shaku Shō Gan

� � �

August 23, 1923 - September 22, 2010

Namu Amida Butsu Namu Amida Butsu Namu Amida Butsu

************************************************************************ The following is a list of special service years. If you have a dear departed relative who has passed away in any of the listed years, and would like to make arrangements for a

memorial service, please contact Rev. Matsumoto at (510) 841-1356. ************************************************************************

2010 MEMORIAL SERVICE SCHEDULE

YEAR SERVICE 2009 1st Year 2008 3rd Year 2004 7th Year 1998 13th Year 1994 17th Year 1986 25th Year 1978 33rd Year 1961 50th Year 1911 100th Year

BBT’s BAZAAR ANNUAL GIFT (BAG)

The Berkeley Buddhist Temple Bazaar Annual Gift (BAG) is a program which donates funds to community service organizations. This year, the BBT selected the Japanese American Services of the East Bay (JASEB) Nutrition Program as the 2010 BAG recipient. Recently, JASEB’s name was changed to J-Sei. J-Sei serves meals on-site at the Berkeley Methodist United Church (BMUC) on Carleton Street, Mondays through Thursdays. The cost of meals is subsidized by J-Sei. Round-trip transportation to BMUC for lunch and to shop at a local Nikkei-owned market is available for a fee of $8.00. Besides meals on-site, J-Sei’s volunteers deliver hot, nutritious Japanese food to seniors in their homes. The volunteers greet clients with “hello,” and this makes many of the clients smile. For some seniors, this is the only person they see each day. If you are interested in volunteering in the kitchen or as a driver, please contact Vickie Kawakami at (510) 848-3560. The Bazaar Annual Gift Committee (BAGC) was formed to help designate each year’s recipient. We would very much appreciate hearing from you regarding a deserving non-profit organization. To qualify, the non-profit should preferably serve the Berkeley area. Please help us by submitting the name of a potential recipient that you feel deserves consideration. Fill out the form below and return to: Yuki Otake, 2121 Channing Way, Berkeley, CA 94704 or email info@berkeleysangha.org Deadline for submissions is December 1, 2010 Please note that all nominations are subject to approval by the Berkeley Buddhist Temple Board of Directors. Thank you for your assistance. BAG Committee Annette Lys Mimi Kagehiro Pat Wayne Sugihara Jr. YBA Yuki Otake PAST RECIPIENTS: 2010 J-Sei 2009 Niroga Institute, George Mark Children’s House 2008 Asian Neighborhood Design, East Bay Asian Youth Center 2007 North Berkeley Nikkei Senior Center 2006 Jodo Shinshu Center 2005 Sakura Kai, Westcoast Children’s Center 2004 Japanese American Services of the East Bay (JASEB), Crisis Support Services of Alameda 2003 Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach, Buddhist Peace Fellowship (Prison Chaplainry) 2002 The Women’s Refuge, Asian Community Mental Health Services (ACMHS) 2001 Spanish Speaking Citizen’s Foundation, North County Women’s Center

Guidelines for Berkeley Buddhist Temple Bazaar Annual Gift (BAG) 1) Gift recipient must be a non-profit organization.

2) Preferably, the gift recipient will serve the Berkeley area.

3) Temple members and Jr. YBA will be asked to submit names of potential recipients.

4) BAG Committee members will review all potential recipients and select recipients based on

merit.

5) BAG Committee will recommend the recipients and the amount of the donation to the BBT

Board of Directors. Recommendations are subject to temple board approval.

****************************************************************************** We would like to know the following information: 1) Name of the non-profit organization:

2) What they do/whom they serve:

3) Organization’s address:

4) Organization’s phone number or e-mail address:

5) Why you would like to see them receive our donation:

6) Your name: _______________________________ Phone number:

2011

Berkeley Buddhist Women’s Association

Sushi and Crafts Sale Sunday, November 14, 2010

The BBWA will hold a Sushi and Crafts Sale following the Ho-On-Ko Service.

Delicious inari (with Berkeley Buddhist Temple’s secret seasoning), warm unagi donburi and Hawaiian style spam musubi are on the menu.

Homemade craft items will be on sale. We will happily accept donated items. Volunteers are needed to prepare the osushi, and pack and sell the items.

This will be a great opportunity to learn to make the various osushi. A sushi order form is enclosed in the Padma.

Please contact Sara Jotoku or Yuki Otake for additional information.

TELEPHONE COORDINATORS: SUSAN GABRIEL & LENA YIN NOVEMBER TOBAN: Chair: Lena Yin Cochairs: Mary Lindquist, Yuki Otake, Hiroko Okano Joanne Okano & Aaron Escalante, Tazuko Kanda*, Eric & Mary Lindquist, Jeff & Robin McGuire, Takashi & Miri Nikaidoh, Nobuko Nishikado*, Gary Oda, Kazuko Oda*, Tsutomu Okahara*, (Steve & Hiroko Okano), Gene & Yuki Otake, Ann Okahara & David Sakurai, Marie Shiromoto*, Satoshi & Elaine Steimetz, Makoto & Sachiko Takenaka, Toshio & Elaine Tsuda, Grace Ueda*, George & Lena Yin. DECEMBER TOBAN: Chair: Judy Kono Cochairs: Sara Jotoku, Emily Ushijima, Patty Fujiwara Royichi & Michiko Anzai, Tak & Kiyo Eshima, Wes & Julie Fukumori, Jim Furuichi, Dale Haratani, Norman Hirose, Gordy & Judy Kono, Patty Fujiwara & Carl Wilmsen, Harry & Shizu Okino, Sarah Jotoku, David & Emily Ushijima, Roy & Alice Wakida, Chiyo Pohan, Diana Thompson, Sandy Lee, Taye Oda*, Makoto & Amy Oto*, Tomoko Hamamoto*, Emma Saito*, George & Lily Kagawa*. *Denotes disabled and/or elderly – Toban duties optional.

* * * * * * * * * *

PADMA STAFF: Rev. Matsumoto, Susan & Al Gabriel, Lucy Hamai, Yo Hiraoka, Norman Hirose, Ellen Jorgensen,

Keiko Kawakami, Roy Marubayashi, Emi Matsunaga, Yuki Otake, Mae Takeda, Scott Takeda, Edythe Vassall, Yasuyo Wolfe and Yae Yedlosky.

David BrazierAuthor

Who Loves Dies Well –On the Brink of Buddha’s Pureland

Caroline BrazierAuthor

Other-Centred Therapy: Buddhist Psychology in Action

AuthorMeditation Without Gurus:

A Guide to the Heart of Practice

“True wisdom means the freedom from self-centeredness, for self-centeredness distorts reality.” — D.T. Suzuki

February 18 - 20, 2011

Rev. Daijaku Judith Kinst Soto Zen Buddhist Teacher

Prof. of Buddhism & Psychology, Institute of Buddhist Studies

Gregg KrechAuthor

Naikan: Gratitude, Grace and the Japanese Art of Self-Reflection

Western psychology has long been dominated by the notion of self: self-esteem, self-entitlement, self-gratification, self-awareness, and self-knowledge. Yet, our spiritual and psychological well-being is not measured by self-concern, but by a directional shift of attention which involves understanding, appreciation, and compassion for others.

This ground-breaking conference, rooted in Buddhist psychology, will present other-centered approaches, which offer fresh, new tools to address challenges in the field of mental health, education, religion, human relations, chaplaincy, and more. Explore Other-Centeredness —Resources for Personal Renewal and Professional Innovation.

• New Directions in Buddhist Psychology •First International Conference on Other-Centered Approaches (ICOCA)

Presented by:The Institute of Buddhist Studies, CA Amida Trust UK, Amida USAToDo Institute, VTBuddhist Churches of America - Center for Buddhist Education, CA

Standard Registration Fee: $215Early Registration Fee $185 Due by Nov. 18, 2010

To register, visit: www.shin-ibs.edu/icoca.php Tel (510) 809-1426 Fax (510) 809-1462Jodo Shinshu Center 2140 Durant Avenue, Berkeley, California 94704 USA

Clark Strand

Leadership Training,

Resources & Support for

All Generations

Buddhist Churches of

America

CENTER

FOR

BUDDHIST EDUCATION

Car Donation Forms online:

www.bcacbenews. wikispaces.net

For information on BCA CBE programs:

director@cbe-bca.org Ph (510) 809-1460

DHARMA CARS WANTED

Running or not!

Your unwanted vehicle can drive CBE programs now and into the future!

BCA CBE

VEHICLE DONATION PROGRAM

State of California only

Free pick up and DMV paperwork –

Tax-deductible at the vehicle’s selling price

Supports BCA CBE’s Annual Program Fund

Please support your local vehicle donation program! If your church/temple or partner organization has its own car donation

program, please consider supporting locally first.

To donate vehicles, contact OCBC:

Ph: (714) 827-9590. Fax: (714) 827-2860 Email: ocbc909@aol.com

The BCA CBE Vehicle Donation Program is

administered by the Orange County Buddhist Church (OCBC)

The Easy Way to Support the BCA Center for Buddhist Education!

Services And Information Berkeley Buddhist Temple

Services Our regular Sunday program begins with a Family Service at 9:30am. A Dharma talk is available after the Family Service while Dharma School classes are convened for students.

Special Services

January 1 Shusho-e New Year's Day Service February 7 Nehan-e Nirvana Day March 21 Ohigan Spring Equinox April 4 Hanamatsuri Flower Festival May 9 Gotan-e Parent's Day July 11 Kangi-e Obon September 19 Ohigan Autumn Equinox November 14 Hoonko Shinran Shonin Memorial December 5 Jodo-e Bodhi Day December 31 Joya-e Year End Service

A Shotsuki Hoyo (Monthly Memorial) Service is held the last Sunday of each month.

Dharma School Our Dharma School (Sunday School) has classes from preschool through high school. Our teachers are happy to discuss the appropriate level of spiritual enrichment for your child.

Monthly Discussions In our discussions, we strive to experience the Buddha-Dharma with our entire selves – with our bodies (quiet sitting and other forms of meditation), voices (chanting and other liturgy) and minds (study and discussion).

Our sessions focus on ways in which Buddhist teaching and practice can impact our everyday lives. Each session will take up a different topic and so you are welcome to attend any or all sessions.

All interested persons are welcome to attend. Please invite your friends! We hope to see you!

Visitor Information Please feel free to ask any of our greeters for information. We are here to assist you with whatever level of participation you may be seeking.

Whether you are here to satisfy a slight interest or to make a more personal connection, we wish you well and hope that you will be visiting us again soon.

Membership Information Membership is open to all who view our Temple as their religious home and seek the Buddha-Dharma.

To join, complete a membership form, have your name entered on the membership roll and support the Temple through a pledge and participation.

To inquire about becoming a member, please speak with our Membership Chair or Minister.

Berkeley Buddhist Temple 2121 Channing Way Berkeley, CA 94704

Office Hours

Monday – Friday 10:00am – 1:00pm

Phone: 510-841-1356 Fax: 510-841-1435

email: info@berkeleysangha.org web: www.berkeleysangha.org