Sunday Service

We warmly welcome everyone to join us for the teachings of Amida Buddha during our Sunday Service is available at 9 a.m. both in-person and via Zoom online.

We understand that attending for the first time can feel a bit overwhelming, so here are some helpful tips and information to prepare you for what to expect and how our service flows.

**Our Location**: We are located at 16-492 Old Volcano Road, Keaau, Hawaii 96749. Look for the white building with a green roof, directly across from the 7-11 store and Longs Drugs. We provide both elevator access and stairs to reach the main temple on the upper level.

**Warm Welcome**: When you arrive, our friendly members will greet you. As you enter, you are invited to come forward to offer incense as a gesture of respect for the compassion and wisdom of Amida Buddha.

**Seating**: You will either be shown to your seat or can choose one on your own.

**Service Start**: The service begins at 9 a.m. with the ringing of the temple bell, known as Kansho. When you hear the bell, we invite you to conclude any conversations and prepare for the service.

**Opening Remarks**: The Master of Ceremonies (MC) will welcome everyone, followed by an opening chant, “Vandana & Ti-Sarana,” led by the minister, during which the congregation will join in. The words will be displayed on a screen or provided in a service book. While chanting, we place our palms together in gassho to show respect.

**Children’s Message**: The minister will deliver a special message for the children.

**Children’s Activities**: Activities for children may be available depending on the circumstances. Please ask to confirm!

**Sutra Reading**: The Buddha’s teachings will be shared through the Sutra. The chanting is to praise the Buddha’s virtues, allowing us to hear the sounds of truth, wisdom, compassion, and joy. The words will be shown on the screen or included in the service book.

**Gatha**: We will sing a gatha, a musical tribute to honor the Buddha’s virtues, with lyrics provided on the screen or in a handout.

**Dharma Message**: The minister will share a dharma message, capturing the essence of Namo Amida Butsu, who promises to relieve suffering and bring ultimate bliss.

**Unison Reading**: Everyone will join in a unison reading led by the MC.

**Nembutsu Chant**: We will chant the Name of Amida Buddha in a melodic gatha.

**Announcements**: The service will conclude with announcements and a sharing of wisdom, followed by closing remarks. Refreshments are typically offered only during special services, but light snacks may be available for fellowship, so please join us when they are provided!

Question: What should I wear?

Answer: Dress comfortably, while showing consideration for other attendees.

Question: I have an infant. Can I attend with my family?

Answer: Absolutely! We welcome the presence of young families, including the sounds of a baby’s cry, as they represent our future. The diversity of our attendees reflects our commitment to inclusivity within a warm and welcoming setting.

Question: I’m new to a Buddhist temple and Buddhism. May I attend?

Answer: Everyone is welcome, irrespective of their knowledge of Buddhism, background, identity, or any other differences. We extend a warm invitation for you to join us and share in the All-Inclusive Wisdom and All-Embracing Compassion of Amida Buddha alongside fellow attendees at our temple.

Question: Is there anything I need to bring?

Simply arrive as you are to embrace the teachings of Amida Buddha. If you have them, please bring a set of Buddhist beads. (Don’t worry if you don’t have any; we have beads available.) As previously stated, the MC will lead us through the service, and the TV monitor will display all the necessary information.

See Temple Etiquette:  Entry and Incense