Memorial Service for the War Victims in Ukraine and Prayer for Peace
Toji Shingon Buddhism held a “Memorial Service for the War Victims in Ukraine and Prayer for Peace” on June 24th, 2022, at Dainichido House in Toji Temple. The memorial service was carried out in the presence of Dr. Sergiy Korsunsky, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Japan and of officials from the Embassy of Ukraine in Japan, along with citizens of Ukraine and of countries neighboring Ukraine.
The idea of conducting a memorial service was that of Zoryo Yoshimura, Head Official of the Toji Shingon Buddhism, a sentiment he expressed at the Sect Assembly held in March 2022. There, he spoke as follows. “Whether or not we, as a Buddhist sect, should issue a statement regarding the military incursion by Russia into Ukraine is not a question to argue now. Rather, as Toji Shingon Buddhist monks, we should pray as one for the repose of the souls of all the war victims in both countries, as well as for the speedy end to the war.” Unfortunately, it was not possible for all Toji Shingon Buddhist monks to assemble at the memorial service. Nevertheless, we all hope that our prayer will surpass religious boundaries and be answered, bringing a swift end to Russia’s military incursion into Ukraine.