Over the past several days we have watched in disbelief the devastation caused by the wildfires on Maui. Our hearts go out to the Sangha of Lahaina Hongwanji and to everyone who has been affected by this disaster.
In Our Pledge, Gomonshu Kojun Ohtani encourages us as fellow travelers along the Nembutsu Path to “…share a life of joy and sorrow with others. Just like the Buddha, whose caring heart always embraces us.” This is a time for us to embody Amida Buddha’s compassion by caring for our Sangha and all who are in distress. This is the living Nembutsu that is grounded in our everyday lives.
The Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Committee on Social Concerns has created the MAUI WILDFIRE DISASTER RELIEF FUND to aid the members of Lahaina Hongwanji and relief efforts on Maui.
How to Contribute
Online at www.hongwanjihawaii.com by clicking on the “Maui Wildfire Disaster Relief” button under the “Donate” tab.
Through GoFundMe at the following link: https://gofund.me/ff77a520
Check and cash donations can be sent directly to Hawaii Kyodan Headquarters. Please make check payable to HHMH and in the memo line designate “Maui Wildfire Disaster Relief” to ensure proper credit. Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, 1727 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HI 96813
August 13, 2023 Update
Statement regarding the Disaster on Maui from Bishop Toshiyuki Umitani:
