March 2022 Voice of the Divine Parent

Vol. 22 # 3

Faith and Immunity

Albert Einstein showed that all matter is composed of energy. We cannot see "energy," "spirit," "ideas," "mind," etc., but they are manifestations of matter and can therefore influence the world of matter. For example, the human mind and thought can affect one’s health and immunity. It has been found that honest and tolerant people have a low cortisol response in the body and a relatively high level of immunity. This can be seen as proof that the spirit is embodied in the material world. In other words, improving immunity can be achieved not only by drugs and vaccines, but also by properly adjusting one's attitude. Dr. Tou Hong, a European virology expert and chief scientist at a biotechnology company, said in an interview, "Human thought and mental state are also important if humankind is to overcome this pandemic."

Currently, there seems to be a misunderstanding about the perception of epidemics. For example, we tend to focus only on material-level measures (masking, quarantine, vaccines), while forgetting that we have minds and spirits which also contribute to our health. In other words, positive thinking can help repel the virus. Keep your heart strong and supple, and always have bright hope. At the same time, be kind and have compassion for those around you. Your immunity boost begins with this invisible shift to positive thinking.

As Konko Daijin taught us, “A heart of true gratitude is the beginning of divine blessings.” [GIII Shinkun 2-3] These blessings can manifest in surprising ways, including by boosting one’s immunity. We also know that “Whether or not you can receive divine blessings depends on your heart. If you renew your heart, then you can reap infinite divine blessings.” [GII Aoyama Kinemon 3]

Vaccines and other medicines are powerful ways to prevent and fight infection, but one should not rely solely on these external measures. Consider also the powerful effect of a positive attitude and praying with a single heart. “If people prayed before taking medicine, blessings would be quick. Instead, however, they take medicine before praying, so there are no divine blessings.” [GIII Konkokyoso Gorikai 47]

Compassion for others and the surrounding world is also important. “Look to those who practice true faith. Their deep compassion allows them to enjoy good health and other things which will continue on to their descendants. Those who practice faith should have deep compassion and a true faith.” [GI Tsugawa Haruo 7]

We are grateful for the advances in medicine and public health practices that have prevented illness and saved so many lives during this long pandemic. But let us not forget to practice faith to help us stay healthy in body and mind.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Clean up Day for the Memorial Service

Clean up Day for the Memorial Service will be the first Sunday in March, at 9 am. These services are not only for the church and minister but provide an opportunity for all believers to celebrate and be festive. Let’s prepare for these ceremonies with everybody helping each other.

Spring Memorial Service

We would like to invite you and your family to attend the Spring Memorial Service on Sunday, March 13, at 10:00 am at the Konko Church of Gardena.

This Memorial Service is held to appreciate and honor Rev. Isao Goto and Rev. Tomoyo Goto’s years of dedication to the church. Appreciation and acknowledgement are also extended to the missionaries who devoted themselves to propagating the Konko faith at the Gardena church and to the success of the Konko Churches of North America. We include appreciation for the Mitama spirits of all believers and their ancestors, and the pioneers and veterans of this country. It is because of them that we have life and are able to receive the blessings we enjoy today. Let us show our appreciation to these Mitama who have paved the way for us, and for the great virtue they have passed on to us.

There will also be a Charnel House Service on Sunday, March 13 at 10:00 am. All of us are building our lives through the foundations laid down by our ancestors. We, in turn, should try to strengthen those foundations for our children and future generations. The Spring Memorial Service is a time for us to remember our ancestors and all the people who made contributions to this great land—the efforts and sacrifices they made for us—as well as to show them our appreciation.

Teachings of Konko Daijin

“Joy is what started this faith. So, childbirth will always be a joy.” [GIII Jinkyukyogoroku 7]

“If people lose their belief in, ‘On this very day, pray with a single heart. Divine blessings are within your own heart,’ the world will be in turmoil. The glory of Kami and the glory of parents will be gone. “ [GI Ichimura Mitsugoro Vol 1-11]

“A heart that feels compassion is Kami.” [GII Kondo Fujimori 17]

“When practicing faith, there are more blessings which cannot be seen than those which can be seen. The blessings you unknowingly receive number more than the blessings you knowingly receive. If you think about it, you will come to realize the many divine blessings that you have receive. If you can do this, you are a true believer.” [GII Tsugawa Haruo 14]

“Everyone asks for divine blessings, but do they understand what true blessings are? Divine blessings ae not limited to just having one’s wishes granted. For some people, death is a divine blessing. Others are saved from death through divine blessings. Since everything in this world is governed by Kami, there is nothing else but to depend on Kami. Even though it may seem like an inconvenience at the time, if you continue to practice faith without going against Kami’s will, you will realize later the blessings you heave received. Faith is pointless unless this much is understood.” [GIII Jinkyukyogoroku 35-1,2]