The construction for the westward expansion of the Sanctuary precincts, which began in June 2003, has made greater-than-expected progress thanks to the sincere efforts of all followers. The earth-carrying hinokishin will, therefore, conclude five months ahead of schedule, with a closing ceremony to be held on October 31 with the attendance of representatives from all directly supervised churches. To facilitate access to the Main Sanctuary, part of the south side of the new slope will be temporarily open to followers from October 24 to 27 including the day of the Autumn Grand Service.
The announcement was made on September 27 at the monthly meeting of the Kanamekai (the association comprising the head ministers of all directly supervised churches) by Rev. Hiroyoshi Shimamura, chairperson of the Oyasato Fusekomi Committee, who expressed his gratitude to all followers for their sincere effort in joining in the construction for the expansion of the Sanctuary precincts. He also mentioned that the pile of earth now remaining on the north side of the former site of Tenri Junior High School was all that was left to be carried through hinokishin.
The earth-carrying hinokishin will be conducted as usual on October 31 from 9:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. The closing ceremony will take place at 4:00 P.M. after all the equipment for the hinokishin is put away. Flags of the Oyasato Fusekomi Hinokishin from all directly supervised churches are going to be hoisted in the ceremony.
From November, rainwater drainage systems, sprinklers, fire hydrants, and other facilities will be installed at the site. Also, trees will be planted, and stonework walls will be built along the edges of the expanded Sanctuary precincts. The entire construction will be completed shortly before next year’s Autumn Grand Service.