A reminder that Saturday, December 31 is New Year’s Eve – Joya-e. The last day of the year is an opportunity to reflect upon the past year in preparation for the coming new year. It is a time to think about the interdependency of all life and to ponder all the causes and conditions that have enabled us to live.
Everyone is welcome to join us at the Temple at 6:00pm in slurping up soba (noodles) for a snack because as everyone knows, long noodles mean long life! We will then meander upstairs to the Hondo and, following a short service, the Sangha will participate in ringing the large temple bell (Kansho) 108 times.
The bell is struck 108 times in Buddhist temples to finish the old year and welcome the new one. Each ring represents one of 108 earthly temptations (bonno) that permeate our everyday lives.
Sunday, January 1 is New Year’s Day – Shusho-e. Shin Buddhism views New Year’s Day as a time to reflect and, with renewed dedication, to endeavor to live a life of gratitude and joy. Don’t forget that the service will be held at 2:30pm on this special occasion.