In the wake of the Tohoku-Kanto Earthquake, a daily prayer service was performed during the three days from March 12 to 14, with the Shinbashira, Zenji Nakayama, leading the proceedings by playing the wooden clappers and the former Shinbashira, Zenye Nakayama, assisting him by using the counter. The prayer services, which started at 12:00 noon, were attended by many Yoboku and followers, including Church Headquarters officials and staff members, students of Shuyoka (the Spiritual Development Course) and of Tenrikyo’s educational facilities, and others who had come from various locations.
Speaking to the congregation prior to the prayer service on the first day, Director-in-Chief of Religious Affairs Hiroaki Yamazawa said: “There are many people who are still missing or stranded and are waiting for help. Let us pray for as many people as possible to be helped and rescued and for a settling to be brought to the affected areas.”
Meanwhile, prayer services were also conducted at Tenrikyo’s mission headquarters, centers, and mission posts, as well as at other Tenrikyo facilities around the world. These prayer services were performed at hours corresponding to 12:00 noon in Japan, when the prayer service was being performed at Church Headquarters.