Shoheijuku Newsletter February 2021

Hatsu Geiko – 42 Participants

On January 2^nd, we had our traditional Hatsu Geiko (the first-of-the-year practice) at Tenjin Dojo. In an ordinary year, the event is lively with so many people including those who are back in town for holidays. This year, however, we had only 42 participants due to COVID-19.  

 We did not even have the New Year’s party after the practice, and had all the participants leave the dojo right away. 

I hope COVID-19 goes away as soon as possible so that we can enjoy a lively Hatsu Geiko with many people as usual next year.

42 People for Kagami Biraki as well

On Sunday, January 17^th, we held the Shoheijuku Kagami Biraki ceremony at Tenjin Dojo. Though we usually have 200 ~ 300 participants, we invited only the representatives from the affiliated dojos and contract instructors. 

Even under the restricted situation, people from the remote places such as Kyoto, Kobe, and Minamata joined us. Thank you very much for your participation.    

With the emcee for the ceremony, Mr. Takayoshi Kanato, we first offered a silent prayer to the Founder, Ueshiba Morihei Sensei and the Second Doshu, Ueshiba Kisshomaru Sensei. Then we had:

• Greetings by Dojo-cho
• Dedicatory Embu
• Awarding Certificates
• Closing Remarks

After the Kagami Biraki ceremony, we had an instructors’ meeting and discussed various things including this year’s schedule. After that, we left the dojo.