Feast of the Holy Innocents: Faith and Resistance Retreat
From the Nipponzan Myohoji Japanese Buddhist Temple to the Burmese Embassy
December 30, 2007

On Sunday, the Faith and Resistance Retreat gathered at the Nipponzan Myohoji Japanese Buddhist Temple . and led us in prayer that included drumming and chanting.

Sister Takako Ichikawa welcomed us, and we had breakfast and enjoyed the warmth and beauty of the temple.

Joining us were two Burmese monks, Ashin Pyinnya Thami and U Indasara who spoke to us (through an interpreter) about the plight of the monks and the people of Burma. The monks encouraged us to work so that Burmese people would not be deported to certain death.

Sister Itchikawa led us in chanting and druming: Na Mu Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo. We heard the chants of the Bermese Monks. As we pray together, in different languages, we know that God hears our hearts.

Jean Chapman has gone on several peace walks and enjoyed the prayer and drumming.

Ashin Pyinnya Thami and Sister Itchikawa led the procession to the Burmese Embassy.

Drumming and chanting: Na Mu Myo Ho Ren Ge Kyo

Wage Peace, Practice Nonviolence.

Free Aung San Suu Kyi

At the Embassy, Burmese nationals speak.

At the Embassy, we held banners on the steps, and remembered the nonviolent struggle of the monks and people who are suffering under military rule. We were joined by Burmese nationals.

Before we leave, we leave rose petals on the steps of the embassy. The people of Burma shower the monks with rose petals.