Puna Hongwangi?

[Rumi in Hawaii]

Has anyone attended services at the Puna Hongwangi? I've been a student of Buddhism for years, but have never gone inside a temple and so I'm wondering what to expect, how to act? I'd like to explore the aspect of sangha. Any advice would be appreciated.

Mahalo.
Katie

Wherever you go, there you are.

[bystander]

You new age buddhists should stick to SGI (Soka Gakai). They have a temple in Hilo.

Hilo Community Center
695 Makalika Street
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
808.959.0701

[Rumi in Hawaii]

How do I know if I'm a new age Buddhist? I mean, I'm into Zen, and into Pure Land...is that "old age" (I am kinda old...58...)? I just want to know if the Puna Hongwangi gives the dharma message in English or something else, and what the protocol is for entering a temple, etc. Will I be totally out of place at the Puna Hongwangi? Oh, and what is Soka Gakai? I don't have any information on that????

Also, since I live in Mountain View, I was looking for something compatible "close to home" so to speak?? Any suggestions?

Mahalo for any education.
Katie

Wherever you go, there you are.

[Carolann R]

Katie my neighbor is Buddhist (he's from England) and he goes to the temple in Hilo. I think you are welcome at any temple.

Carrie

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If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion. ~Dalai Lama

[Rob Tucker]

Katie, The simplest thing is to stop in and visit them and ask. I believe you will find them very open and friendly.

[Carey]

Most of my neighbors go to Puna Hongawanji (we're just down from the mission) - (We have been asked to join their services, and our neighbors know that we go to a church in Hilo, so I am fairly certain that their services are open to anyone.)
Their services are 9:30 on Sunday. The minister is the Reverd Earl M Ikeda (really nice guy). If you want to phone the office, 966-9981. They are very open to vistors, their 2 day O-bon is open to all. They were open to all last summer when the Dali Lamma relics toured.
Our Hilo Church deacon is involved in the Taiko drumming lessons. They are active in interfaith groups...so I am sure that you will be very welcome.

[Rumi in Hawaii]

Thank you all....now to just get over being shy! I will call the Rev. Ikeda. Really appreciate all this info and support.

Katie

Wherever you go, there you are.