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WCBT's main hall was full at the 40th Anniversary
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Some late-comers even had to stand in the back!
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The service began with a special Sutra Chant led by the 4 ministers present.
These chants are the actual teachings of the Buddha.
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Rev. Koyo Yuki, representing the entire North American District of our
Higashi Honganji sect, read a special congratulatory message from our Japan
Headquarters
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Rinban ("head minister") Nori Ito gave a wonderful talk which both highlighted the achievements
of WCBT's 40 year history and challenged its members to constantly discover
anew the meaning of the Buddhist teachings in a personal way, and to find
new ways to share the Buddhist teachings with others
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Glenn Nakatani (l) and Rev. Ken Kawawata (r) present a special award to
Mary and Kim Hatakeyama
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After the service, particpants enjoyed a great dinner in the gymnasium.
Pictured are the Ito Family.
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Peter Hata, Rev. Yuki, Joannie Martinez, Rev. Saito and Rev. Ken enjoyed
the food and conversation!
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After the banquet, we were all treated to a funny "Trivia Game"
presented by the Dharma School kids
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The Junior YBA pose after their informative skit which illustrated some
of the Buddhist teachings, such as "impermanence."
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The finale was the melodious singing of the "Four Ministers,"
who sang favorites like the 50's hit "Sukiyaki."
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After the program, everyone got together for a group shot.
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