On May 19, BGK's board member and the Head of a Shibu, Mr. Takashi Sekiguchi passed away.

The funeral ceremony was carried out on June 7 at Takanawa Church.
We would like to thank more than 1,400 members who attended the ceremony.

We hereby pray sincerely for his eternal peace.

From June 1 to September 30, BGK facilities will adjust our air-conditioner temperature higher, so members are encouraged to wear lighter clothes to the polite extent on your visit to HQs, District Churches or on Minobu pilgrimage.

However, on the Shuyoukai (Monthly Prayer Assembly), formal attire is required. Ties are required for men, and the same level of formality for women.

JUNE

Important Conditions for the Pilgrimage

Healthy personnels under 69 years old (excluding the Elderly Groups) are able to participate in the pilgrimage, but please make sure to read and understand the following conditions before you register regardless of your age.

• Participants have to have a sincere respect to Mt. Minobu as the sacred place where St.Nichiren's soul rests.


• As this is a group pilgrimage, participants have to follow the guidance of staff members and group leaders during the pilgrimage.


• Participants have to be able to walk on foot during the pilgrimage on the first day.


• As the pilgrimage includes climbing up the mountain in the early morning, people with following health conditions are strictly forbidden to participate.

1. Heart Disease (angina pectoris, arrhythmia)
2. Pregnancy
3. Undergoing artificial dialysis
4. Under treatment for high blood pressure
5. Other medical conditions that make group participation difficult

++ People who have medical conditions of 4 and/or 5 but with minor symptoms may talk to their doctors, and upon their approval, may consult BGK HQ or District Churches regarding the possibility to participate.

BGK's annual event, Mt.Minobu Pilgrimage started on May 8 (Saturday).

The first pilgrimage group consisted of members from Miyagi prefecture and Thailand was blessed with a pleasant weather, and together thanked for the health and blessings received last year, and promised for further efforts.

Altogether, over 20,000 BGK members in 47 groups from all over Japan as well as many from abroad will be participating for this year's pilgrimage, which will continue until July 31.

On April 29 (Thursday), a general assembly commemorating the 43th anniversary of BGK's Student Association was held.

The day was blessed with a beautiful weather, and student members from all over the country came together to celebrate and to promise for further efforts for the upcoming BGK's 60th anniversary.

On April 25 (Sunday), BGK Church in Akita commemorated its 40th anniversary under the pleasant weather, together with more than 2,000 BGK members.

Speech by the Vise President was followed by the thankful note from the Head of BGK Akita Church, promising for further efforts to practice and pass on the teaching.