The February Monthly Service of Tenrikyo Church Headquarters was performed on the 26th in the Main Sanctuary.
Serving as chief officiant on behalf of the Shinbashira, who is recuperating, Successor-Designate Daisuke Nakayama said in the Service prayer: “All of us Service performers as well as church head ministers and other Yoboku are determined to share with people around us the joy that we find in our faith and to take every opportunity to administer the Sazuke to those suffering from illnesses. Thus by praying and taking actions for the salvation of all people throughout the world, we intend to do the utmost to respond to the Parent’s intention for single-hearted salvation.” Just before this, the Shinbashira arrived in the South Worship Hall and stayed throughout the Kagura Service as at last month’s Spring Grand Service.
The prayer was followed by the joyous performance of the Kagura Service and the Dance with Hand Movements. After the Service performance, Honbu-in Mitsunori Toi took the podium to deliver the sermon.
Rev. Toi said that, to make progress in any matter, it was important to have confidence, a sense of pride, and high self-esteem in the roles, positions, and environments one was given. As far as the followers of the path are concerned, he added, this can translate into having confidence and a sense of pride in the teachings. He then noted that we can realize how wonderful the teachings are by learning the teachings thoroughly and settling them in our heart as well as by studying different worldviews. He then noted that we should not only strive to cultivate our faith but also show people around us and our children how marvelous the teachings are through the way we live our lives as followers.