The 64th annual convention of the Hawaii Island United Hongwanji Buddhist Women’s Association is slated for Sunday (Oct. 21) at Puna Hongwanji Mission. The convention is hosted by Puna and Naalehu BWA.
Keynote speaker is Lois Toyama, statewide president of the federation of Buddhist Women’s Associations in Hawaii. Toyama has concentrated on the themes of “Dharma Leadership in Action” and the 2018 Hongwanji theme “Embrace Change — Harmony (Accept Differences).”
The theme of this year’s convention is “Harmony.” BWA units from around Hawaii Island will gather starting at 8 a.m. for registration followed by family services at 9 a.m. in the temple, where Toyama will speak. This part of the event is open to the public.
The convention business meetings are scheduled for 10:45 a.m.-2:15 p.m. in the Social Hall. Featured will be a video message from Bishop Eric Matsumoto, a talk from BWA exchange student Zoe Nakamura, a message from Mayor Harry Kim and a business meeting. Lunch is included. This portion of the convention is by advance reservation only.
For more information, contact your local BWA unit or convention chairwomen Jean Tamashiro at 959-3091 or Masako Sakata at 929-9274.
Puna Hongwanji Mission is located at 16-492 Old Volcano Road in Keaau.