Looking Forward Towards the Joyous Life
by Isamu Ryono, Tenrikyo Meishin America Church
The 85th Spiritual Development Course was held from June 15 to July 12. This year, six participants spent one month living at the Mission Headquarters and learning together the teachings through lectures on The Doctrine of Tenrikyo and The Life of Oyasama Foundress of Tenrikyo, and how to implement them in our daily lives.
From waking up early for morning cleaning of the sanctuary, to attending classes, daily hinokishin activities and eating meals together, students endured a challenging schedule. However the culmination of their hard work led to a spirited performance of the full service practice held at the end of the program.
This year, as a token of their gratitude, the students practiced in their spare time and gave a wonderful taiko drumming performance. With the support of local members, students and staff alike were nourished with food for the soul, successfully completed the course, and now, move forward in each of their lives working towards the Joyous Life.
A Reflection on the Spiritual Development Course
by Koichi Takenaka
I attended the Spiritual Development Course (Shuyokai) this year.
It was a wonderful experience for me, far better than I had expected. Although I was born and raised in a family of Tenrikyo followers and have attended numerous Tenrikyo events and services, to be honest, I was not familiar with the Tenrikyo teachings. Eventually, I learned the meanings of Mikagura-uta (12-kudari songs) and grasped the basics of the Tenrikyo teachings. I realized how wonderful Tenrikyo teachings are and appreciate my family being Tenrikyo followers.
In addition, the life in the course at Dendocho was wonderful. I felt I got mentally purified through the course. I appreciate the instructors, Dendocho staff, and many volunteers who supported the wonderful Shuyokai.