Teaching
Johrei News
The Kyoshu Throne Special: World President´s Visit
WORLD MESSIANIC CHURCH OF AFRICA – CENTRAL HEADQUARTERS Year 4 – December, 2011– ISSUE 12
Kyoshu-Sama gives orientation about “Judgement Day“ Page. 3
SPECIAL THE PRESIDENT OF THE WORLD MESSIANIC CHURCH´S MISSION TRIP Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe celebrated a Members Service at the Africa Central Headquarters which was attended by more than 30 thousand people, dedicated the Cacuaco Enhancement Centre, and laid the cornerstone of the first Natural Agricultural School durin his fourth visit to Angola. He then went on to visit Mozambique, for the second time, to lay the cornerstone of the Mozambique Enhancement Centre, in the district of Marracuene. Pages. 4 and 8
Lunda Tchokwe floklore group enchants and welcomes the Messianic delegation Page. 7
A UNIQUE FEELING
The Connection Between Eating Habits and Behavior People who cook think that good cuisine must include fish and meat. As a result, both fish and meat are used in such large quantities that it acutally becomes a problem. This is why I have always called attention to this issue. I often stress the importance of eating lots of vegetables. And the amounts must be even higher, because it is in vegetables that we find the nutrientes we need. However, it is hard to work actively when we are too relaxed; so, we must also eat foods of animal origin. Ideally, the person preparing the food should keep this in mind.
editorial
Teaching
“S
ocial wellbeing must begin with Natural
Agriculture.” This was the main message delivered by Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe to the 30 thousand people that attended the Members Service held on August 20, at the Africa Central Headquarters, in Luanda. Rev. Watanabe emphasized that the practice of Natural Agriculture in Angola will be decisive for the erradication of hunger and utter poverty in the African continent, which already boasts 27 thousand Natural Agriculture vegetable gardens.
Meishu-Sama – February 28, 1952
This was the fourth time that the President of the World Messianic Church, Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe visited Angola. In addition to the service for
A New Way of Looking at the World
members and attendees, he also laid the cornerstone of the first Natural Agriculture School and dedicated the Cacuaco Enhancement Centre. He then went on to Mozambique, for his second visit to that country. He was welcomed with great emotion
In order to present all that AFRICARTE – Association for the Development of Natural Agriculture, African Art and Culture, linked to the World Messianic Church of Africa – has been doing, a site with news, testimonials, interviews, cases, and articles was launched. Navigating this site you will learn, for instance, how to set up and keep a Natural Agriculture Vegetable Garden. It is also possible to watch videos and get a scoop of what´s new in the field of culture, art, and agriculture. It is an interactive site that aims at providing society with alternatives for better living. The site also encourages the exchange of ideas and actions among social network users.
by 3.4 thousand people, on August 23. In the following morning, he laid the cornerstone of the Mozambique Enhancement Centre, in Cumbeza, in the Marracuene district. More than just emphasizing the importance of practicing Natural Agriculture, in his meetings with church members in both Angola and Mozambique, Rev. Watanabe talked about his experience in the Messianic faith, about the
Check it out at www.africarte.org
importance of being completely thankful for God´s love (including, and most of all, for purifications), about the gift of becoming “number 1” in the life
LAUNCH
of another person by being in sync with the wishes of his/her Ancestors, giving Johrei, and leading him/her to happiness. After all, “we don´t know the magnitude of the Divine Work ahead of us
RELIGION AND THE SPIRITUAL WORLD
after we give Johrei or after we refer a person to
is the third volume of Meishu-Sama´s
a Johrei Center.” Think about it!
Teachings Collection. It can be purchased at the World Messicanic Church of Africa, in Luanda, and in religious units only available in the Portuguese language, but it will soon be available in both English and French versions.
WMCA
all over Africa. For the time being, it is
ANGOLA – Tel.: 244 222 00 9385 244 222 00 9416 MOZAMBIQUE – Tel.: 00258 21 300-275 DEM. REP. OF THE CONGO – Tel.: 243 315 102 187 SAINT THOMAS AND PRINCE – Tel.: 00239 227805
www.johreiafrica.com
Always something new. Visit us!
Johrei News is produced by the World Messianic Church of Africa – Rua da Escola 28 de Agosto – Futungo 2 Kawelele – Luanda – Angola – P.O. Box: 1310 Registration No.: MCS - 390/B/2004
Johrei News
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President: Min. Claudio Cristiano Leal Pinheiro Vice-Presidents: Min. Ernestina Olinda P. Coimbra (Angola), Min. Glauro M. S. Leite Filho (Mozambique), Min. Afonso Quifuta Pereira (R. D. of the Congo), Min. Jaime Fortuna (Saint Thomas and Prince), Min. Roberto L. C. Cândido (South Africa)
SOUTH AFRICA – Tel.: 27 12 320 5484
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Media Relations: Min. Gilmar Dall’Stella Media Relations Assistant: Maria do Céu Editorial Board: João José Tavares, José Armando Estrela and Avelino da Costa Editing and Desktop Publishing: Ana Cristina Stabelito Photography: Silvério Txixi, João Mavinga and Batuque Filmes Contributers: Domingos Sebastião Álvaro and Telma Trindade
Printing: Damer English Version: Martha Dias Schlemm English Version Proofreading and Editing: Ester Kanovitz Print Run: 30 thousand copies Periodicity: Quarterly E-mail: ascom@johreiafrica.com
The Kyoshu Throne
Bear good fruits pleasing to God Message by Kyoshu-sama, Yoichi Okada, Paradise on Earth Service, June 15 and 16, 2011. Hall of Worship, Atami, Japan
Good morning, and welcome to today’s Paradise on Earth Service. With a deep sense of awe, I acknowledge that the Supreme God, the only God, is surely alive within each one of us and within everything in the universe. Meishu-Sama taught us that God’s Plan is to create and establish Paradise on Earth. I believe establishing Paradise on Earth to mean that we return to the paradise that exists within us, and become true children of God. In order to accomplish this Plan, He put His intention into the word Messiah, and implanted the spirit of the word Messiah into each one of us and into all of creation. God is nurturing us and guiding us towards the achievement of His Plan. Meishu-Sama was newly born following this Plan of God. We who are connected to Meishu-sama, and fortunate and blessed to be able to serve in God’s Plan of creation together, with all humanity and their ancestors and everything encompassed within the universe – let us be grateful for this fact, and praise God.
Meishu-Sama Is Shining Through Those Affected by the Earthquake A few months ago a powerful earthquake and Tsunami hit the northeastern part of Japan, and subsequently a calamity occurred at the nuclear plant. A large number of people died and many are still missing. Still others were greatly affected in other ways by this disaster. Many people are still living in shelters. I have received reports regarding their situation on a regular basis, but their challenges are far beyond my comprehension. Even amidst these difficulties, I understand that the survivors are doing their best to pass each day with a positive outlook, caring for each other and supporting each other, rising above their predicament and doing their best to find the gratitude and joy in their lives. Their bright and unfailing attitude has made a deep impression on me and I am touched beyond words. As followers of Meishu-Sama, they are shining and illuminating the hearts of those around them, giving courage, comfort and hope to others. I am amazed--in awe of their attitude in the midst of trying circumstances. I give thanks to God for the fact that Meishu-Sama is guiding those affected by this disaster to live with such a positive attitude, and I aspire to have the same sentiment: to trust and follow Meishu-Sama and to be grateful for whatever circumstances I experience. Many people sent donations to help those in need, and affected by the challenging situation. The relief effort is being carried out as well to help alleviate the survivor’s difficulties. I appreciate the many different forms of support: material, physical and spiritual; for those who experienced the disaster. Also, our members from many different countries sent money, and prayed for those affected, expressing their concern and giving encouragement. During the earthquake, and subsequent Tsunami and nuclear power plant accident, and through the process of recovery from this scenario, Meishu-Sama has been teaching us that those who experienced this calamity and those of us who, through the media witnessed the calamity from around the world are united. And all of us are being led to the true salvation. We must take stock in ourselves constantly, and continue serving in God’s work with a renewed frame-of-mind, and as a result we will move forward, steadily, one step at a time. In this sense, you are making efforts to practice “Gratitude Sonen,” and “Practice of love for others,” and I hope these practices will enrich your mind and make you closer to Meishu-Sama.
The Door of the Rock Cave Has Been Opened Within Us Eighty years ago, on the dawn of June 15, 1931, Meishu-Sama climbed Mount Nokogiri in Chiba prefecture, and received an important revelation from God, regarding the shift in the spiritual realm from the Age of Night to the Daylight age. We recited three poems by Meishu-Sama during the service today. The first one says, “On this auspicious day of June 15, 1931, The door of the rock cave of the ancient legend Opened quietly, unpretentiously, without notice by a single soul.” This verse is one of many Meishu-Sama composed, with the intention that it be recited for the service held on June 15, 1951, twenty years after the event on Mt. Nokogiri. I believe this verse to mean: a door in his mind opened, quietly, without notice by anyone, and the light shined into the darkness in his mind.
Through this verse, Meishu-Sama affirmed to himself that the shift from night to day was accomplished at the center of his own consciousness on June 15, 1931, and is teaching this fact to us. Since God accomplished this major change at the center of the spiritual realm, in heaven, Meishu-Sama also felt the change at the center of his own consciousness. Just like the door of the rock cave opened in the mind and heart of Meishu-Sama, he also wants each of us to acknowledge that the door of the rock cave in the mind and heart of each one of us has opened as well. Since we are connected to Meishu-Sama, both in the spiritual realm and on this earth, we must be sensing this major shift at the center of consciousness of each one of us, as MeishuSama sensed it. Meishu-Sama composed another verse, “When all people on Earth open their hearts and minds to God’s Divine Plan, darkness in the world will disappear.” (Prayer Book page 17.) In order to respond to Meishu-Sama’s wish as expressed in this verse, we can honestly say that the door of the rock cave within our minds and hearts have been opened, and recognize as fact and reality that the change from night to day has been accomplished within our consciousness, and acknowledge it to Meishu-Sama with deep reverence and gratitude.
God Already Forgave Us Through the Last Judgment Meishu-Sama tells us that the change from night to day also means what is commonly referred to as “Judgment Day” or the “The Last Judgment.” Since this major change happened already at the center of the spiritual realm, it shows us God already finished “The Last Judgment” and has already forgiven humanity. This Last Judgment is not a judgment between what we consider good or bad in this world. It is not meant to punish those who have done wrong. The Judgment is part of God’s great Plan, which is beyond the comprehension of the human mind; it is actually a blessing. God has been using us as divine instruments, both what we see as good or evil, surpassing our judgment and yardstick of good or bad. Meishu-Sama teaches us that humanity’s past history has been in the preparatory stage in establishing Paradise on Earth [127. TM4-47]. The constant conflict between good and evil has helped to advance human nowledge and has aided in the development of civilization. Thus the existence of evil was a necessity during the age of darkness. [47. TM2-56.] We have been used, in both good and evil roles, as God instructed us. God deeply loves us. God forgave all our past activities because He regarded us as having served Him, and so forgave all our transgressions. In this manner God brought us out of the realm of darkness and shifted and welcomed us into the world of light, the daylight age, so He can nurture us and bring us up in the new, brand new world. The realm of darkness signifies the state of mind where we were unaware of our own ignorance of turning away and neglecting God, though God, our spiritual parent, is alive within us eternally. The world of light signifies the state of mind where we become conscious and aware and notice that we have turned away and forgotten God. If we became aware of our own ignorance, it was only because a beam of light entered into the darkness of our consciousness and filled it with light. Light prevailed over darkness. We may not be happy with ourselves and be boastful when we see our ignorance but we must understand that it is specifically because we were forgiven by God that we are allowed to have this awareness. We are grateful for this understanding, telling this to God through Meishu-Sama, and offering ourselves into God’s hands, so that we can be used in God’s work of sharing this blessing with everyone and everything.
The Change From Night to Day Already Happened Within Ourselves I interpret that the word “last” in the phrase “The Last Judgment” to mean our ego consciousness. We started our journey from heaven, the first stage of creation, and when we were born this time we reached the final stage of creation called the self-conscious ego. That is the existence called the “present me.” God put judgment in our mind, which is an integral part of the ego and a product at the final or last stage of creation, hence the term “The Last Judgment.” We have been given this important role to play at the final
phase of creation. If we acknowledge that the judgment is over, and that we have been forgiven, along with everything else, then we return to heaven which is the starting phase of creation, and we can help to bring it to an end and “The Last Judgment” will cease, in its truest sense. In this physical world, we may not experience that this major change was accomplished, and cannot see, hear or sense it with certainty. But God has given us the concept of and the word “faith,” so that we can believe and recognize what we do not see. God is communicating with us constantly through the process of faith, and is guiding us, through faith, toward the world which God already achieved. In order to teach us this Plan of God, Meishu-Sama has warned us from time to time about the coming judgment, and stressed the importance of having faith many times. I believe he did this so that our ego-centric minds might gain humility and bend to God’s wish, becoming open and receptive to God’s forgiveness. If we do not acknowledge God’s love and forgiveness of us, God considers that we arrogantly think all the mental and physical activities and accomplishments of mankind were done by our hand, by human power. If so, we will have to keep resolving, liquidating, settling and atoning what we have done, by ourselves. We have been sent to this earth to be used in God’s work, of assisting as many human beings as possible by connecting them to Meishu-Sama. Meishu-Sama composed this verse, “Do not remain careless and inattentive, and think that the world is still in darkness. The sunlight has already broken through the clouds.” We are in the midst of a new morning, and the sun is already shining brightly. The new heaven, after the change from night to day, already exists within us. God’s work, to forgive, purify, save and revive all, has been accomplished already within ourselves. For this reason, we can entrust and surrender ourselves to God and pray that God’s wish be done within ourselves. For the same reason, we can desire to serve in God’s work of constructing Paradise on Earth even just a little, even if we are arrogant and self-centered.
May God Shine and Manifest Himself Through Us God, who is the source of everything, implanted His own precious “seed” within us, along with His breath, and sent us to this earth plane. This seed is God’s own eternal consciousness, eternal life, and eternal soul. God’s intention is for the seed to bear His fruit within us. For this goal to be accomplished, God is working with all his might through Meishu-Sama, to nurture and guide us, and to use our minds and bodies as His own, so that good fruits will be produced which God will be pleased with. “To bear good fruits which will be pleasing to God,” is the essence of the expression to “be newly born.” The true meaning of “being newly born” is that God Himself is newly born within each one of us, not that we be newly born. God wants us to be expressions of Himself. From our point of view, we are vessels and instruments which are receptive to God and serve to express Him. For this reason, Meishu-Sama often used the expression “accumulating hidden virtue,” and composed this verse, “Good deeds, clearly visible to everyone, cannot be compared spiritually to those done secretly, without fanfare. They are heaven’s true treasures.” [Prayer Book, page 73.] Through these teachings, Meishu-Sama advises us not to become conceited or arrogant regarding our accomplishments. Whatever manifests is not “me” or “us,” but God. Whatever shines is not “me” or “us,” but God. When Meishu-Sama manifests and shines, it is God who is within Meishu-Sama who does so. We are connected to Meishu-Sama, and in order that God, who is with Meishu-Sama and within Meishu-Sama, manifests and shines, we desire to serve in the new activities after the change from night to day, as God’s conduits and instruments, together with all of humanity, their families and loved ones in the spiritual realm and their ancestors, and together with everything in the universe. In conclusion, I offer my deep gratitude to God who accomplishes all with His boundless love, and I pray that God’s light and power be shared with everyone and everything by you and through you, as you are connected to Meishu-Sama, and guided by Meishu-Sama. Thank you very much.
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Special
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The President of the World Messianic Church visits Angola (for the fourth time) and Mozambique (for the second) in his mission trip to the African continent
Yesterday I was able to speak over the telephone with Kyoshu-Sama, who sends his best regards to all Church members all over the African continent. He asked me: ‘How many members will be assembled at the Central Headquarters tomorrow?’ My answer was: ‘About 30 thousand people!’ He then replied: ‘I am very touched to know that 30 thousand people will be gathered to study with you. Please, congratulate all the African members for me.’
Social Wellbeing Should Begin with
This time, the purpose of my visit is to participate in the cornerstonelaying ceremony of the first Natural Agriculture School in the African continent and in the dedication of the Cacuaco Enhancement Centre.
NATURAL AGRICULTURE The road to erradicate hunger and poverty must include the ongoing promotion of Home-Grown Vegetable Gardens The President of the World Messianic Church (WMC), Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe, in a mission visit to the African continent, last August, stated in Luanda, during the Members Service held at the Africa Central Headquarters, on the 20th, that the practice of Natural Agricultural in Angola will promote the erradication of hunger and poverty all over the African continent. The WMC´s president talked to more than 30 thousand people assembled at the Church´s African Central Headquarters – including representatives from seven religious institutions of the African community – and emphasized that social wellbeing must begin with Natural Agriculture. According to Rev. Watanabe, the Natural Agriculture model rejects the use of chemical fertillizers, animal manure, and toxic chemicals, which are commonly used in conventional agriculture. For the WMC´s president, the Messianics´ vision is to take salvation to all of Humanity through Natural Agriculture, by developing a model that will allow families to become self-sustainable, besides promoting reforestation and environmental preservation. (Full presentation available on the side)
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I heard that here, in Africa, more than 27 thousand families keep a Home-Grown Vegetable Garden according to the Teachings of Meishu-Sama, right? Those who keep a Home-Grown Vegetable Garden, would you please raise your hands? Congratulations! In terms of natural Home-Grown Vegetable Gardens, Africa is number one in the world. The other day I spoke in Guarapiranga to all members of Brazil and I said: ‘You have lost to Africa!’ In Brazil there are only 15 thousand families keeping Home-Grown Vegetable Gardens. Now, by building this school, we want to train thousands of instructors to teach the agroforestal tecnique in all African countries. Today, I am visiting Africa for the fourth time. Two years ago, I was accompanied by Rev. Francisco. Tomorrow, we will have the cornerstone-laying ceremony and he must be very happy! That´s why he came along with me this time. He is with me wherever I go. Today, he is here and he sends his best regards to all of you! Two years ago, he spoke as my instrument. Now, I am his instrument. Meishu-Sama taught us that one of the ways to spread the word worldwide is to begin with Natural Agriculture. By the time we fully understand the mechanisms of Natural Agriculture on how to care for and respect the
soil in order to have a good yield, we will also understand Nature´s Truth. This way, it is easier to understand Meishu-Sama´s philosophy. Our wish is to take salvation to all of Africa by way of Natural Agriculture, erradicating disease, poverty, and conflict, teaching every family to become self-sustainable, besides promoting reforestation and environmental preservation. This is the best way to spread Meishu-Sama´s Salvation Testament in Africa. Well, he are already in the month of August and we are about to begin our preparation for the Ancestors Service all over Africa, right? Are you getting ready? Nidai-Sama, the Second Spiritual Leader, taught us that we must understand that our Ancestors cannot be raised to the Spiritual World by themselves, they cannot evolve on their own. They need the support of their descendants, who live in the material world. The Ancestors know that if the descendants add up merits, they are being useful to God and everybody will be happy. So, they send us messages prompting us to awaken, as fast as possible, to this truth. Sometimes, this message comes in the form of family purification. The other day, in Nagoya, Japan, I was talking with my older sister, who is a pedagoque and devoted her whole life to educating children in that city. During our conversation, she told me: ‘When I look at you, I am happy that you followed in our father´s footsteps. You are spreding the word worldwide and are very useful do God! But, look at me, I created a school, I worked for 50 years as a pedagogue, but I don´t think I was as useful to God as you and our father were to deserve the happiness I enjoy today.’ So, I explained to her: ‘I don´t think so. As a pedagogue you were very useful to God by educationg children. Moreover, you were also very useful to the Divine Work of Meishu-Sama. When you were a child, only six years old, you had leukemia (at that time lelukemia was a fatal, incurable disease) and our father took you in his arms to the best hospitals in Tokyo. But all the doctors declared you incurable; there was no hope of curing your disease. Our father was suffering, because even having succeeded professionally as a trader, his daughter was very ill and about to die. He told all about his suffering to a friend. Upon hearing all this, his friend that always played chess with him, said: ‘I know a person that can cure any disease. Would you like to meet this man? His name is Master Mokiti Okada.’ My father agreed to meet him and soon payed a visit to Meishu-Sama in his home. At that time everybody called him Dai Sensei ‒ Great Master. After hearing Meishu-Sama´s orientation, our father agreed to receive the Ohikari in order to give Johrei to you. He received the Ohikari from Meishu-Sama,
went back home and started to channel hours of daily Johrei to you, who were still sick with leukemia. A month later, he took you to the hospital for tests that showed great improvement. In the second month, you had no signs of leukemia and were totally cured of the disease. He felt imense joy. But he was not just feeling happy, he also thought: ‘When there is disease in this home, the only way out is taking the sick person to the doctor or to the hospital. But Master Meishu-Sama gave us the power of Johrei which I, as a father, was able to use to cure my own daughter! And more, I can also cure anybody by transmitting the Light of God and Meishu-Sama!’ Very moved, he went to his home in the province, where his father and mother lived. There, he told my grandparents: ‘My daughter had leukemia, there was no hope of cure, but thanks to the Ohikari I received from Meishu-Sama, she is now totally cured. In gratitude, I want to devote myself entirely to the Work of Meishu-Sama; I want to give up my seven shops and become Meishu-Sama´s missionary!’ My grandmother opposed it: ‘You have more than 70 employees, what are you going to do with them? What are you going to survive on?’ And I said: ‘Don´t you worry, God protects those who are useful to Him.’ My grandmother refused to accept the idea, but my grandfather asked my father: ‘You say that Johrei cured my grandaughter, so I want you to give me Johrei, I want to receive it too. My father channeled Johrei to my grandfather, who remarked: ‘What a strong light is emanating from the palm of your hand!’ When my father heard this, he decided to become a true disciple of Meishu-Sama. And as a result of his becoming a missionary, I followed in his footsteps and went to Brazil, ‘the middle of nowhere!’ In sum, if my sister had not had leukemia, my father would not have met Meishu-Sama, nor would he have been able to save so many Japanese people. And I would not have gone as a missionary to Brazil and around the world. I told her: ‘This means that, because of your purification, you were of use to God!’ What´s more, when I started the pioneer work in Rio de Janeiro, a three-year-old girl called Lucinha was brought to the house of Johrei with leukemia. She had three months to live, according to hopeless doctors. Her father was a lieutenant in the Air Force. He brought me the girl and asked: ‘Can Johrei cure leukemia?’ I answered: ‘My sister was cured! She has grandchildren and is still alive. Yes, there is cure in Johrei.’ So, Lucinha´s parents decided to take her to receive Johrei, everyday. After three months of regularly receiving Johrei, Lucinha´s
leukemia totally disappeared. O Cruzeiro, a famous magazine of that time published a four-page story about Lucinha, presenting Johrei as something new. This is how Johrei made the news in Brazil and other countries. And so I concluded: ‘My sister, you very helpful and served Meishu-Sama´s Divine Work. You helped to spread the word around the world!’ Then my sister said: ‘I can now fully enjoy the happiness I feel!’ to which I replied: ‘You are going to live to be 120, my sister!’ But had it not been for my father´s friend, who referred him to Meishu-Sama, we would not have been saved. So, we must understand that this purification was given to us as our Ancestors´ message to make us useful to God. And this is how we became of use to Him. This is why I think that all of you also must have had some kind of purification ‒ disease, unhappiness, or conflict ‒ that brought you to the Church and to receive Johrei, right? Haven´t you experience any kind of suffering, some kind of purification? The purification that you experienced was a message from your Ancestors for you to become useful to God. Then, having done so, your life changed, did it not? So, are you grateful for the purification you experienced? This is how you learned about Meishu-Sama, right? Are you grateful or have you forgotten to give thanks? Are you giving thanks for it as a sign of Meishu-Sama´s love, of God´s love? If a person can be grateful for past purifications, he or she will also be able to give thanks for today´s purification as well as for anything that might happen in the future, whatever that may be; it is God´s way of loving us and lifting us, of making us stronger, isn´t it? This is easier said then done, because when someone is in suffering, sometimes it is very difficult to be thankful! This is what is happening today. But it should not be like this! Those who cannot be thankful for the purification they are receiving will not receive God´s love completely. Only partially. Now, if you feel that the purification ‒ conflict, disease or unhappiness ‒ is God´s love, then you will receive His true love. Believe me: if you are grateful for your suffering, you will grow, your spiritual level will be raised and you will become even happier. But, if we think that this suffering is the influence of negative forces, we will go to hell. Those who live only to whine and complain will go to hell. Those who are grateful will go to paradise. Is this clear?
So, when you receive any kind of purification, think this way: “What is it that Meishu-Sama has in store for me now? I think that things will get better, I will be even happier.’ ‘Thank you for this purification!’ When you think like this, in terms of gratitude, you are already half-way there, only good things will come to you. I ask you to try it. Do you remember any purification you have had? And do you still remember who gave you your first Johrei? Do you remember who referred you to the Johrei Centre? Oh, I also remember who gave me my first Johrei. I remember, because this person told me about it was my father. Soon after receiving the Ohikari from Meishu-Sama and going back home, I was crawling and fell down the stairs. I had a big bump on my head. I was crying and so may father picked me up, held me in his arms and channeled Johrei. My first Johrei, and my father´s brand new Johrei given to me! I think that everybody feels gratitude toward the person who referred them to the Church and gave them the first Johrei. If today we are happy to know Meishu-Sama it is because somebody referred us and assisted us, and gave us Johrei; somebody who became the number one person in our happiness. But are we trying to become number one in somebody´s happiness by referring them, assisting them and giving them Johrei? We cannot know how the Divine Work will manifest itself after we minister Johrei of refer someone to a Johrei Centre. If that friend of my father´s had not told him about Johrei, for sure my family would not have known Meishu-Sama and I wouldn´t be here today. So, from now on, in preparation of the Ancestors Service, please try to be aware of what is going on around you, because you will surely meet someone who is suffering, awaiting to be saved. Actually, this person´s suffering is the manifestation of the Ancestors´s will trying to have you assist a descendant to become useful to God. Everytime we meet someone in suffering, it is the person´s Ancestors´ asking for salvation. If you can give Johrei to this person and he or she becomes useful to God, the Ancestors will certainly be happy. Would it be possible for you to refer at least one person to God´s service before the Ancestors Service? As a result of this decision, your Ancestors will be very happy and will join in everybody´s work until the Ancestors Service.
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Thank you very much, and have a successful mission!
In his visit to Angola, the President of the WMC was accompanied by the Director of the WMC International Department, Rev. Marco Antonio Baptista Resende and by the Secretary of the WMC President´s Office in Brazil, Min. Douglas Mira.
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Presidência Experiência dede Fé África
Special
continued
This was Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe´s fourth visit to Africa. The first visit, in 2000, was to lay the cornerstone of the Africa Central Headquarters. The last one, was two years ago, to study the construction of the first Sacred Grounds of Africa. This time around, Rev. Watanabe visited Angola to lay the conrnerstone of Africa´s first Natural Agriculture School, and for the dedication of the Cacuaco Enhancement Centre, a place where any congregation or institution, be it public or private, can hold activities.
Important Participations Choirs At the end of the meeting in Luanda, on August 20, Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe met privately with writer Maria Eugénia Neto (photo on the side), with the ambassadors of Angola in South Korea and Cabo Verde, Albino Malungo and Josefa Guilhermina Coelho da Cruz, respectively, and with the university professor Boubakar Namory Keita. Albino Malungo and Boubakar Keita presented their compliments accompanied of their respective wives. After the private meetings, the President of the World Messicanic Church received cordial compliments from Rev. Gabriela Joana Yome, of the Church of the Honoured People of Angola; from Pastor João Domingos, of the Church of the Pentecostal Evangelic Misson of Angola (second photo), on behalf of the other religious congregations linked to the Municipal Ecumenic Commission of Samba (presided this year by the World Messianic Church of Angola); and from pilgrims from South Africa, Cabo Verde, Congo Brazaville, Congo Kinshasa, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Zambia. Also attending the act were representatives of the IEBA (Baptist Evangelic Church of Angola), Kimbaguista, IESPA (Prophetic Holy Ghost Church of Angola), African Episcopal Methodist – Sião “Caridade”, and Evangelic of Jesus Christ´s Apostles Church in Angola. In addition to the Messianic delegations from other countries, thousand of members and attendees from the eighteen Angolan provinces participated in the event (photos below), bringing to the site an extraordinary atmosphere of colours and unique fascination. Adding to the enthusiasm of the Messianics, several choirs from some of the religious congregations represented made lively presentations.
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Notícias
Oração especial em sintonia com culto no Japão
August 21
Angola will be home to the first
Natural Agriculture School Laying the cornerstone of the first Natural Agricultural School of the World Messianic Church to be built in Africa, in Cacuaco, Angola, was one of the highlights of Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe´s mission trip to the African continent. According to him, having the first Natural Agricultural School will allow its trained instructors to teach other people, particularly about best agroforestal practices, which implemented according to the Natural Agriculture principle will become the basis of a sustainable model that will make it possible for people to live off of their own vegetable gardens.
President dedicates
Enhancement Centre On August 21, the World President, Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe, dedicated the Cacuaco Enhancement Centre in the presence of some ministers and guests. At the occasion, he met privately with Rosa dos Santos (photo below), the Administrator of the Funda Commune, where the Enhancement Centre is located and, at the end, he posed a huge challenge to the audience: getting ready to obtain permission from Kyoshy-Sama – the fourth Spiritual Leader of the World Messianic Church – in 2012, not only to dedicate the first Natural Agriculture School, but also to lay the conerstone of the first Sacred Grounds in Africa. In the occasion, Min. Marques Zambo Bambi was nominated director of the first Natural Agriculture School.
Dancing Spreads Joy For this fourth visit, the delegation from the region of Lunda de Angola (Northeast) made a surprise cultural presentation that aroused the curiosity of Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe during the Members Service, on August 20. The pilgrims from Lunda brought to Luanda the area´s most traditional dance group that combines the sound of drums with costumes that completely cover the dancers making them look like impressive dancing clowns. After watching the Lunda Tchokwe folkloric group´s colorful performance, Rev. Watanabe expressed his feelings to the audience that was gathered to listen to him on that day. “Today I was very happy to be welcomed by the dancing performed by the Lunda Sul group. I really felt like I was in the African continent. It was very interesting,” he said.
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mozambique Special Países
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On Mozambican Land for the Second Time The President of the World Messianic Church, Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe, visited Mozambique for the second time, on August 23, 2012. His first trip was in 2006, and was indelibly marked in the hearts of those who had the chance to participate. This second visit was also very special. In the company of the Director of the International Department of the World Messianic Church Headquarters in Japan, Rev. Marco Antonio Baptista Resende, and the Secretary of the President´s Office and Head of the Sacerdotal Formation Seminary of the World Messianic Church in Brazil, Min. Dougals Mira, during his visit to Mozambique, Rev. Watanabe visibly brought much joy to the Messianics. The emotion on the faces of more than 3.4 thousand attendees at the Maputo Enhancement Centre was noticeable as they sang and expressed their hapinness for having such a sublime moment in their lives. Among the participants were pilgrims from several provinces from all over the country and from the Republic of South Africa and the Swaziland Kingdom that filled the nave and the courtyard of the Maputo Enhancement Centre and part of Avenida 24 de Julho.
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The Mozambican Messianics´ dedication and preparation created paradisiacal moments that could be felt during the service, where Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe gave an orientation that deeply touched the audience and led them to deep reflection. “It was as if the World President´s words were being written on blank sheets of paper,” observed a missionary at the end of the service.
Laying the cornerstone of the Mozambique Enhancement Centre The cornerstone-laying ceremony of the Mozambique Enhancement Centre took place in Maputo, on August 24, and was attended by the honourable President of the World Messianic Church, Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe. The activity took place in the morning of the second day of his visit, in Cumbeza, in the district of Marracuene, and was attended by 100 people, who welcomed Rev. Watanabe with joyful songs and captivating dancing. Minister Claudio Cristiano Leal Pinheiro, Presidente of the Church in Africa, made the Consecration Prayer that preceded the actual cornerstone laying by Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe, a gesture that was followed by Rev. Marco Antonio Baptista Resende, Minister Cláudio Cristiano Leal Pinheiro, Minister Glauro dos Santos Leite Filho, Minister Roberto Cândido, and by Mrs. Maria Mabjaia Uamba. After the ceremony, Rev. Tetsuo Watanabe met with the ministers to learn more about the project and to give some ideas regarding the site, while enjoying the pleasure of tasting strawberries cultivated through the Natural Agriculture principle. At the very end, the President greeted the audience and attempted a few dance steps, which made everybody even more cheerful, since they were already happy for the opportunity to participate in such an important ceremony. Rev. Watanabe also visited the site where a Johrei Center and a Natural Agriculture Centre operate, in the company of Rev. Marco Antonio Baptista Resende, Director of the International Department of the Chuch Headquarter in Japan, Minister Claudio Cristiano Leal Pinheiro, President of the World Messianic Church of Africa,
Minister Glauro Marques dos Santos Leite Filho, Vice-president of the World Messianic Church of Mozambique, Minister Roberto Lúcio Clemente Cândido, Vice-president of the WMC of South Africa, and of Minister Douglas Mira, Secretary of the President´s Office and Head of the Sacerdotal Formation Seminary of the World Messianic Church of Brazil.