Following the massive earthquake in Japan, the Konkokyo Headquarters immediately organized the emergency center, led by Reverend Mitsutoshi Sato, Chief Administrative Director, and dispatched two teams of four staff members each to Tohoku Church Administrative Block on March 12th. The teams carried out services for the consolation for the affected churches and relayed the Sacred Rice from Konko-Sama, Spiritual Leader of Konkokyo.

Konkokyo Headquarters now asks its congregation for monetary support to the affected churches and local community. Many believers and Konkokyo organization have been making efforts to support affected areas.

Reverend Sato expressed his reflections regarding the earthquake:
“I heard of the news of earthquake occurrence, while attending a meeting at about 3 pm of March 11th. I watched TV after closing the meeting, and stunned by the scene which I couldn’t believe it was true.

“First we should pray for the comfort of the mitama spirits of the victims, express the condolence to their families, and pray for their well-being from the bottom of our hearts. Today, many people and organizations in society are making their best efforts in relief activities. It seems that the necessity of recovery support will be expected for months or years.

“My principal wish is that our entire congregation tries our best to provide support — both with manpower and materials — with our deep prayers and with our Faith.”