By Juri Chillseyzn 

I had the pleasure of returning “Home” to Jiba this past January for the 140th Anniversary. I was fortunate enough to be able to bring my whole family (my husband Chris, my 8 year old daughter Emilia, my 10 year old son Toby, and my mother Emiko Kusumoto). It has been about 15 years since my last visit to Japan and my children’s first time. 

During our travels I spoke to my children about Jiba. They were curious about Tenri city and the Kanrodai (Stand for Heavenly Dew). We talked about Oyasama and how the location of the Kanrodai came to be. As we reached closer to Jiba I couldn’t help feeling the joy and excitement. When we arrived at Tenri in the evening, it was already getting dark. We walked straight to the worship halls. It was pretty empty and I felt small. Both of my children were impressed with the sheer size and vastness of the worship halls. It warmed my heart to have my family next to me as we paid our respects. We proceeded to visit Oyasama and Memorial Hall. As we walked down the long wooden corridors, I remembered all the fond memories I had there when I was younger and how thankful I was for being able to finally be there. Over the past few years, we had many obstacles and difficulties to overcome. Which gave me more of a reason to return to Jiba.

On January 26th, we all walked to the Jiba together with the Ryono family. It was a slow and steady walk since the walkways were crowded with people. By the time we arrived at the worship hall, there were no more seats available. We managed to find a nice wall to lean against until the service was over. Luckily, I was handed a translator head set and felt blessed to be able to listen to the Shinbashira’s words. I felt a true sense of peace. 

I can’t be more thankful to the Ryono Family from Meishin America Church as they invited us with open arms. We felt instantly welcomed like we were part of the Senba Family. We met up with old friends and made unforgettable new ones. My children had the best time running, playing, and laughing with their old and new friends, which was one of their highlights of the trip. Our stay was very enjoyable and comfortable. We can’t wait to visit again.

By Norman Tanaka

I am truly grateful to be able to return to Jiba on this very special and meaningful day.

My first return to Jiba two years ago came about through my daughter’s illness. The doctors were unable to determine the cause of her condition. In the midst of that situation, my head minister taught me the teachings of the Path and guided me in performing the service. As we devoted ourselves to the service again and again, my daughter received a blessing. Through that experience, I felt a sincere desire to learn more about this wonderful teaching, and that desire had brought me to Jiba for the first time.

While being guided through the Main Sanctuary, I experienced a deep inspiration and spiritual awareness that I feel can only be found at Jiba. During the Besseki lecture, I was able to learn the teachings more profoundly, and my understanding deepened. I came to understand why I was urged to return to Jiba even from the time of the previous head minister.

Later, through the scripture study seminar held at the Mission Headquarters, I continued to learn more about the teachings. And with the warm encouragement of many people, I gradually came to understand the significance of the Oyasama Anniversary. Moved by that understanding, I returned to Jiba for the second time on this occasion.

With a heartfelt desire to repay the blessings I have received from Oyasama and to express my deep appreciation to the many people who have supported me, I hope to return to Jiba again in the future.