The June Monthly Service was conducted at Tenrikyo Church Headquarters on the 26th with the Shinbashira presiding. The Service commenced with the Service prayer read by the Shinbashira. In the prayer he first thanked God the Parent for the blessings and guidance being provided daily. Then, on behalf of all followers, the Shinbashira expressed our resolve to work decisively in single-heartedness with God so that we will be able to make further advancement in world salvation.
This was followed by the Kagura Service and the Dance with Hand Movements, which were performed joyously while the entire congregation within the precincts joined in singing the songs for the Service.
Following the performance of the Service, Honbu-in Utaro Takami delivered his sermon. Referring to God the Parent’s intention at the time of human creation and to the complete providence of God, he said, “It is essential to settle in mind the truth of ‘a thing lent, a thing borrowed’ so that we can use our body thoughtfully and meaningfully according to the divine intention.” In this regard, Honbu-in Takami stressed the importance of hinokishin, saying that hinokishin is a natural expression of the joy at being kept alive by God the Parent.
He further said that, although modern society became aft1uent due to advanced technology, human greed has caused such serious problems as environmental disruption, global warming, famine, and so on. “In addition to making the physical efforts of hinokishin,” he continued, “we ought to be working on weakening our greediness while making those efforts.” Basing himself on scriptural sources, Rev. Takami told the audience that nothing would make greater repayment for God’s blessings than taking advantage of every opportunity to administer the Sazuke.