On June 19, the day before the Mission Headquarters in America’s 70th anniversary service, the Shinbashira, who is president of the Young Men’s Association, and Mrs. Harue Nakayama, president of the Women’s Association, attended a joint convention commemorating the 50th anniversary of the America chapters of the Women’s Association and the Young Men’s Association. Approximately 700 people from all over North America attended the convention, including 400 Women’s Association members and 200 Young Men’s Association members.
The convention commenced at 2:00 p.m. In his address, the Shinbashira reminded the listeners of the purpose of the anniversaries of Oyasama and the role of Arakitoryo, pioneers of the path. He concluded his address by encouraging the members, saying, “I would like to ask you, therefore, to maintain pride and conviction in your role as pioneers of the path, to give full play to your youthful vitality in leading other Yoboku in church and district activities, and to conduct our association activities ever more enthusiastically.”
Next, the president of the Women’s Association delivered her address. Basing herself on the Shinbashira’s addresses at this year’s Spring Grand Service and Women’s Association Convention, she explained the qualities befitting women of the path and gave pointers on how women should follow the path at this seasonable time. In closing, she requested that “we spend each and every day leading up to the Anniversary by serving joyously in our respective roles, always keeping our minds humble, warm, and straightforward.”
Next, the president of the Women’s Association delivered her address. Basing herself on the Shinbashira’s addresses at this year’s Spring Grand Service and 86th Women’s Association Convention, she explained the qualities befitting women of the path and gave pointers on how women should follow the path during this season. In closing, she requested that “we spend each and every day leading up to the 120th Anniversary by serving joyously in our respective roles, always keeping our minds humble, warm, and straightforward.”
After the convention, the Young Men’s Association organized discussion workshops and the Women’s Association held a bazaar as their commemorative events. Following the evening service, a reception was held in the courtyard in front of the Multipurpose Hall in the company of the Shinbashira and Mrs. Nakayama.