On May 31, KIC staff members met with Ms. Pauline Chakmakjian during her visit to Japan. Ms. Chakmakjian is a researcher of Freemason, Japanese Culture, and Japanese New Religions. She has a strong interest in Konkokyo and participated in the Pan-European Konkokyo Conference this past February.

She spoke with KIC staff about Konkokyo activities, its current state of affairs, and its future activities in London. Afterwards, she and KIC staff visited Konko Church of Shiba (Minato-Ward, Tokyo), and met with Head Minister Reverend Akemi Utsugi. With deep fascination, Ms. Chakmakjian asked Reverend Utsugi about the structure of the worship hall and altar, Sacred Mediation, and church activities.
Ms. Chakmakjian also visited Konko Church of Karasuma (Chuo-Ward, Kyoto) on May 24. She spoke with Reverend Yoshiteru Takahashi, the head minister, and toured the church facilities.

After meeting us, she left by saying that since she was coming to Japan again next year, she would love to come meet the members of Konkokyo again!