Konko Talk

In this special episode of Konko Talk, hosts Koichi, Edna, and Aimee remember Rev. Masato Kawahatsu, affectionately known as “Thank You Sensei,” who passed away on September 14, 2026, at the age of 80.

Rev. Kawahatsu was a unique and inspiring Konkokyo minister who served in Hawaiʻi and San Francisco. He dedicated his life to sharing Konko Faith beyond the church community through a simple but powerful message: Say “Arigato Gozaimasu” (Thank you very much) 1,000 times a day, laugh often, and live with a grateful heart.

Through personal memories and remarkable stories from his life, the hosts reflect on his spiritual journey, including the hardships he experienced, how he discovered the power of gratitude, and how his faith helped him overcome sorrow and difficulties.

They also share his extraordinary dedication to spreading Konko Faith through community activities, picking up litter, teaching calligraphy, and encouraging people to appreciate themselves, others, and Mother Nature. Even during his final days in hospice care, he continued sharing his faith and touching people's hearts.

The conversation also explores his teachings about building harmonious relationships, finding blessings during difficult times, and transforming our lives through gratitude and laughter.

Although Rev. Kawahatsu is no longer physically with us, his message and spiritual legacy continue to inspire those who knew him.

Join us as we celebrate the life of “Thank You Sensei” and reflect on how two simple words—“Thank you”—can change the way we see the world.

Arigato Gozaimasu, Kawahatsu Sensei! Thank you for everything!

#KonkoTalk #ThankYouSensei #Konkokyo #KonkoFaith #RevMasatoKawahatsu #Gratitude #Arigato #Faith #Spirituality #PositiveLiving #SanFrancisco

As Konko Missions in Hawaiʻi prepares to celebrate its 100th Anniversary, Rev. Koichi Konko, Rev. Edna Matsuoka, and Aimee reflect on the remarkable journey of Konko Faith in Hawaiʻi and the responsibility of carrying it into the future.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the early history of Konko Missions in Hawaiʻi, the establishment of the first churches, and the sacrifices made by pioneer ministers and believers. They share moving stories from World War II, including the internment of ministers such as Rev. Haruko Takahashi and the hardships faced by the faith community during a difficult chapter in Hawaiʻi's history.

The conversation also explores how Konko Faith has evolved over the past century, the importance of preserving its Japanese roots while sharing its universal teachings with people of all backgrounds, and the unique role Hawaiʻi plays as a bridge between cultures and generations. The hosts reflect on Toritsugi Mediation, gratitude, community, and the continuing mission of serving Kami and the people of Hawaiʻi.

Join us as we honor the pioneers who built the foundation of Konko Faith in Hawaiʻi and look ahead to the next 100 years of faith, service, and spiritual growth.

Topics Discussed

• The origins of Konko Missions in Hawaiʻi
• The establishment of Mamichi-kai and the first churches
• World War II internment of Konko ministers
• Rev. Haruko Takahashi’s faith and perseverance
• Preserving Japanese culture within Konko Faith
• Sharing Konko teachings with future generations
• The significance of the KMH 100th Anniversary
• Konko-sama’s upcoming visit to Hawaiʻi
• The unique value of Toritsugi Mediation

Mahalo for listening to Konko Talk. Please subscribe, share with your family and friends, and join us in celebrating the Konko Missions in Hawaiʻi Centennial. 🌺🙏

[email protected]

In this episode of Konko Talk, we welcome a special guest, Rin—a devoted listener who was already practicing Konko Faith when she discovered this podcast. Through listening, reflecting, and applying the teachings in her daily life, Rin shares how her faith has deepened in meaningful and practical ways.

Rin opens up about her personal experiences with prayer, gratitude, and Toritsugi mediation, and how these practices have supported her through challenges and helped her grow spiritually. This episode highlights the importance of consistently practicing faith and staying connected to Tenchi Kane No Kami, even when facing uncertainty or hardship.

We also explore:

• How listening to Konko Talk can strengthen faith
• The role of Toritsugi mediation in everyday life
• Practicing faith beyond knowledge
• Overcoming struggles through prayer and gratitude
• The importance of community and spiritual support

Whether you are new to Konko Faith or have been practicing for many years, this conversation offers encouragement and insight on how to deepen your faith journey.

🙏 Thank you for listening and being part of our Konko community.

🔔 Subscribe to Konko Talk so you never miss an episode
👍 Like, comment, and share with friends and family

📩 Contact us: [email protected]

Konko Talk https://anchor.fm/koichi-konkoSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/42I6y7UNEeIL9Q908XpMciGoogle

Podcast shttps://www.google.com/podcastsfeed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80Njg5NWRmMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Breakerhttps://www.breaker.audio/konko-talk

Pocket Casthttps://pca.st/z6s2a3apRadio Publichttps://radiopublic.com/konko-talk-G145rMhttps://anchor.fm/koichi-konko/episodes/Konko-Talk-11-Food-e1j8cdc

Konko Mission of Honolulu

1728 Liliha Street, Honolulu, HI 96817

Open Everyday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Morning Prayer Session at 5:30 a.m. (Japanese)

Morning Prayer Session at 7:30 a.m. (English)

Evening Prayer Session at 7:30 p.m. (Japanese)

Sunday Service at 9:00 a.m. (English)Homepagehttp://konkomissionshawaii.org/honolulu.htmFacebook https://www.facebook.com/Ikigami.Konko.DaijinYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLHLi5IOOq3w7QLcyhCTezg

Konko Mission of Wahiawa

207 Muliwai Avenue, Wahiawa, HI 96786

Phone: (808) 621-6667 (Urgent prayer requests also accepted)

Prayer Requests via text: Rev. Edna Matsuoka (808) 223-3448

E-mail: ⁠[email protected]

⁠Homepage

https://www.konkowahiawa.org/homeWe are open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ5p5fDuZyH25i_Prth1K8A/featured

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/konkomissionofwahiawaInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/konkowahiawa/

Konkokyo Videos: Introduction to Konkokyo

https://youtu.be/xytgSgfnwms

音楽： フリーBGM・音楽素材MusMushttps://musmus.main.jp/

Summary

In this episode of Konko Talk, the hosts discuss the concept of Aiyokakeyo, which emphasizes mutual fulfillment and interdependence among individuals and their relationships with Kami. They explore how this principle can be applied in various aspects of life, including family dynamics, community support during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of appreciating every role in society. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding different perspectives and finding positivity in caregiving, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace gratitude and cooperation in their daily lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Konko Talk and Aiyo Kakeyo

02:16 Understanding Aiyo Kakeyo: Mutual Interdependence

04:06 The Role of Kami in Aiyo Kakeyo

06:14 Navigating Relationships and Honesty

08:23 The Importance of Listening and Understanding

10:32 Reflections on the Pandemic and Community

15:07 Aiyo Kakeyo in Practice: Real-Life Examples

17:30 Valuing Every Role in Society

20:27 The Impact of COVID-19 on Worker Recognition

24:27 Lessons in Ayokakeyo: Caring for One Another

27:58 Navigating Family Dynamics and Caregiving

31:25 Embracing Life's Seasons: Growth Through Struggles

36:38 Shifting Perspectives: The Gift of Caregiving

40:27 The Foundation of Ayokakeyo in Relationships

Konko Talk https://anchor.fm/koichi-konkoSpotify https://open.spotify.com/show/42I6y7UNEeIL9Q908XpMciGoogle

Podcast shttps://www.google.com/podcastsfeed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80Njg5NWRmMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Breakerhttps://www.breaker.audio/konko-talk

Pocket Casthttps://pca.st/z6s2a3apRadio Publichttps://radiopublic.com/konko-talk-G145rMhttps://anchor.fm/koichi-konko/episodes/Konko-Talk-11-Food-e1j8cdc

Konko Mission of Honolulu

1728 Liliha Street, Honolulu, HI 96817

Open Everyday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Morning Prayer Session at 5:30 a.m. (Japanese)

Morning Prayer Session at 7:30 a.m. (English)

Evening Prayer Session at 7:30 p.m. (Japanese)

Sunday Service at 9:00 a.m. (English)Homepagehttp://konkomissionshawaii.org/honolulu.htmFacebook https://www.facebook.com/Ikigami.Konko.DaijinYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLHLi5IOOq3w7QLcyhCTezg

Konko Mission of Wahiawa

207 Muliwai Avenue, Wahiawa, HI 96786

Phone: (808) 621-6667 (Urgent prayer requests also accepted)

Prayer Requests via text: Rev. Edna Matsuoka (808) 223-3448

E-mail: ⁠[email protected]

⁠Homepage

https://www.konkowahiawa.org/homeWe are open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ5p5fDuZyH25i_Prth1K8A/featured

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/konkomissionofwahiawaInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/konkowahiawa/

Konkokyo Videos: Introduction to Konkokyo

https://youtu.be/xytgSgfnwms

音楽： フリーBGM・音楽素材MusMushttps://musmus.main.jp/

"Aimee Reflects on COVID's Lesson in Workplace Equality"

00:00 Introduction to Konko Talk and Hiroshima's Significance00:54 Personal Connection to Hiroshima's Atomic Bomb Experience03:33 Arie Shirakami's Family History and Experiences07:02 Survivor Stories: The Impact of the Atomic Bomb11:53 The Aftermath: Casualties and Long-term Effects13:17 The Role of Youth During the War20:12 Lessons from the Past: The Importance of Remembrance23:37 The Future of Hibakusha Stories and Peace Education25:00 Reflections on Hiroshima and Nagasaki26:29 Experiences at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park28:43 The Transformation of Hiroshima's Landscape29:51 The Impact of the Atomic Bomb on Lives32:11 Memories of the Past: The River and Its Stories34:07 The Discrimination Against Hibakusha38:41 The Hidden Stories of American Victims41:59 Continuing the Legacy of Peace45:35 The Importance of Sharing Memories49:57 Promoting Global Peace and Understanding📖 SummaryIn this powerful episode of Konko Talk, Rev. Koichi Konko, and Rev. Edna welcome Rev. Arei Shirakami from the Konko Church of Rijō in Hiroshima. As a second-generation hibakusha (atomic bomb survivor descendant), Rev. Shirakami shares deeply personal reflections rooted in her family history.Her grandfather, Rev. Morimaro Kubota, former head minister of Konko Church of Rijō, miraculously survived the Hiroshima atomic bombing on August 6, 1945, despite being only 800 meters from the hypocenter. Through her grandfather’s handwritten accounts and her own experiences, Rev. Shirakami discusses the horrors of that day, the long-term effects on survivors, and the enduring responsibility to preserve these stories.The conversation touches on:* Survivor testimonies and the devastating aftermath of Hiroshima.* The role of children and youth during wartime, many of whom perished.* Discrimination faced by hibakusha and their descendants.* The importance of peace education and remembering the past to prevent repetition.* Rev. Shirakami’s volunteer work at Hiroshima Peace Memorial, ensuring that cenotaphs and memorial stones “speak” through guides who share their stories.* Broader reflections on nuclear testing, global peace, and the Konkokyo teaching that “All people are children of Kami.”As the world marks 80 years since the end of WWII, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of remembrance, prayer, and working together for peace.Konko Talkhttps://anchor.fm/koichi-konkoSpotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/42I6y7UNEeIL9Q908XpMciGoogle Podcastshttps://www.google.com/podcastsfeed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80Njg5NWRmMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Breakerhttps://www.breaker.audio/konko-talkPocket Casthttps://pca.st/z6s2a3apRadio Publichttps://radiopublic.com/konko-talk-G145rMhttps://anchor.fm/koichi-konko/episodes/Konko-Talk-11-Food-e1j8cdcKonko Mission of Honolulu1728 Liliha Street, Honolulu, HI 96817Open Everyday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Morning Prayer Session at 5:30 a.m. (Japanese)Morning Prayer Session at 7:30 a.m. (English)Evening Prayer Session at 7:30 p.m. (Japanese) Sunday Service at 9:00 a.m. (English)Homepagehttp://konkomissionshawaii.org/honolulu.htmFacebook https://www.facebook.com/Ikigami.Konko.DaijinYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLHLi5IOOq3w7QLcyhCTezgKonko Mission of Wahiawa207 Muliwai Avenue, Wahiawa, HI 96786Phone: (808) 621-6667 (Urgent prayer requests also accepted)Prayer Requests via text: Rev. Edna Matsuoka (808) 223-3448E-mail: ⁠[email protected]⁠Homepagehttps://www.konkowahiawa.org/homeWe are open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pmYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ5p5fDuZyH25i_Prth1K8A/featuredFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/konkomissionofwahiawaInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/konkowahiawa/ Konkokyo Videos: Introduction to Konkokyohttps://youtu.be/xytgSgfnwms音楽： フリーBGM・音楽素材MusMushttps://musmus.main.jp/

Contact via email at [email protected]:00 Introduction to Konko Talk00:52 The Theme of Praying Anywhere, Anytime for Anything02:04 The Importance of Prayer in Daily Life08:10 Understanding Prayer Requests and Acceptance11:33 Finding Blessings in Challenges15:46 Developing a Consistent Prayer Routine20:07 Praying for Others and the Community22:11 The Power of Prayer24:39 Humanity in Prayer29:03 The Nature of Sincerity in Prayer35:44 The Four Pillars of Faith38:01 Prayer as a Living Practice43:13 The Importance of Sincerity in PrayerSummary:In this episode of Konko Talk, Rev. Koichi, Rev. Edna, and Ms. Aimee discuss the boundless nature of prayer in the Konkokyo faith. They explore how prayer is not limited to a specific place, time, or situation, but can be offered anywhere and for anything—whether in moments of joy, gratitude, or hardship. Through personal stories and teachings of the Founder, they illustrate how prayer connects believers to Tenchi Kane No Kami (the Divine Parent of the Universe) in daily life. The hosts also reflect on their own prayer practices, emphasizing sincerity, gratitude, and openness to receiving divine blessings in any circumstance.Konko Talkhttps://anchor.fm/koichi-konkoSpotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/42I6y7UNEeIL9Q908XpMciGoogle Podcastshttps://www.google.com/podcastsfeed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80Njg5NWRmMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==Breakerhttps://www.breaker.audio/konko-talkPocket Casthttps://pca.st/z6s2a3apRadio Publichttps://radiopublic.com/konko-talk-G145rMhttps://anchor.fm/koichi-konko/episodes/Konko-Talk-11-Food-e1j8cdcKonko Mission of Honolulu1728 Liliha Street, Honolulu, HI 96817Open Everyday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Morning Prayer Session at 5:30 a.m. (Japanese)Morning Prayer Session at 7:30 a.m. (English)Evening Prayer Session at 7:30 p.m. (Japanese) Sunday Service at 9:00 a.m. (English)Homepagehttp://konkomissionshawaii.org/honolulu.htmFacebook https://www.facebook.com/Ikigami.Konko.DaijinYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLHLi5IOOq3w7QLcyhCTezgKonko Mission of Wahiawa207 Muliwai Avenue, Wahiawa, HI 96786Phone: (808) 621-6667 (Urgent prayer requests also accepted)Prayer Requests via text: Rev. Edna Matsuoka (808) 223-3448E-mail: ⁠[email protected]⁠Homepagehttps://www.konkowahiawa.org/homeWe are open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pmYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ5p5fDuZyH25i_Prth1K8A/featuredFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/konkomissionofwahiawaInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/konkowahiawa/ Konkokyo Videos: Introduction to Konkokyohttps://youtu.be/xytgSgfnwms音楽： フリーBGM・音楽素材MusMushttps://musmus.main.jp/

Contact via email at [email protected]

Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt episode of Konko Talk, we welcome Rev. Yoki Sekiguchi, the newly appointed Head Minister of the Konko Mission of Hilo. Rev. Yoki shares his inspiring and humble journey—from arriving in Hawaii as a young man without a driver’s license, to discovering Konko Faith through the guidance of Rev. Kunito, to his unexpected path to ministry and leadership in Hilo.

The hosts—Koichi, Edna, and Aimee—dive into conversations about reconnecting with family, overcoming hardship, the power of Toritsugi Mediation, and practicing gratitude in daily life. Rev. Yoki reflects on how his faith deepened, how blessings flowed even in times of uncertainty, and how his brother’s transformation also came through spiritual awakening.

Together, they discuss the meaning of serving Kami-sama, how humility shapes leadership, and the unique legacy of Hilo Church. Rev. Yoki’s sincerity and vulnerability shine through in every moment of this episode, reminding us that through faith, even the most unexpected roads can lead to profound purpose.

Konko Talk

https://anchor.fm/koichi-konko

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/42I6y7UNEeIL9Q908XpMci

Google Podcasts

https://www.google.com/podcastsfeed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80Njg5NWRmMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==

Breaker

https://www.breaker.audio/konko-talk

Pocket Cast

https://pca.st/z6s2a3ap

Radio Public

https://radiopublic.com/konko-talk-G145rM

https://anchor.fm/koichi-konko/episodes/Konko-Talk-11-Food-e1j8cdc

Konko Mission of Honolulu

1728 Liliha Street, Honolulu, HI 96817

Open Everyday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Morning Prayer Session at 5:30 a.m. (Japanese)

Morning Prayer Session at 7:30 a.m. (English)

Evening Prayer Session at 7:30 p.m. (Japanese)

Sunday Service at 9:00 a.m. (English)

Homepage

http://konkomissionshawaii.org/honolulu.htm

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/Ikigami.Konko.Daijin

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLHLi5IOOq3w7QLcyhCTezg

Konko Mission of Wahiawa

207 Muliwai Avenue, Wahiawa, HI 96786

Phone: (808) 621-6667 (Urgent prayer requests also accepted)

Prayer Requests via text: Rev. Edna Matsuoka (808) 223-3448

E-mail: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Homepage

https://www.konkowahiawa.org/home

We are open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

⁠YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ5p5fDuZyH25i_Prth1K8A/featured

⁠⁠Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/konkomissionofwahiawa

⁠⁠Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/konkowahiawa/

Konkokyo Videos:

Introduction to Konkokyo

https://youtu.be/xytgSgfnwms

音楽： フリーBGM・音楽素材MusMushttps://musmus.main.jp/

Summary: Episode 22 of "Konko Talk" delves into the significance and applications of practicing faith in everyday situations. Hosts Koichi, Amy, and Edna explore how faith is not just about religious observance but extends to professional and personal growth. They share personal anecdotes demonstrating how faith has helped them manage challenging interactions at work, emphasizing the importance of continuous spiritual and professional development. The discussion also covers the concepts of success versus fulfillment in practicing faith, highlighting how faith can lead to a deeper sense of personal achievement beyond conventional successes. Through their engaging and heartfelt conversation, the hosts illuminate how faith can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and how it intertwines with daily actions and decisions, fostering a resilient and compassionate approach to life's hurdles.

Contact via email at [email protected]

Konko Talk

https://anchor.fm/koichi-konko

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/42I6y7UNEeIL9Q908XpMci

Google Podcasts

https://www.google.com/podcastsfeed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80Njg5NWRmMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw==

Breaker

https://www.breaker.audio/konko-talk

Pocket Cast

https://pca.st/z6s2a3ap

Radio Public

https://radiopublic.com/konko-talk-G145rM

https://anchor.fm/koichi-konko/episodes/Konko-Talk-11-Food-e1j8cdc

Konko Mission of Honolulu

1728 Liliha Street, Honolulu, HI 96817

Open Everyday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Morning Prayer Session at 5:30 a.m. (Japanese)

Morning Prayer Session at 7:30 a.m. (English)

Evening Prayer Session at 7:30 p.m. (Japanese)

Sunday Service at 9:00 a.m. (English)

Homepage

http://konkomissionshawaii.org/honolulu.htm

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/Ikigami.Konko.Daijin

YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLHLi5IOOq3w7QLcyhCTezg

Konko Mission of Wahiawa

207 Muliwai Avenue, Wahiawa, HI 96786

Phone: (808) 621-6667 (Urgent prayer requests also accepted)

Prayer Requests via text: Rev. Edna Matsuoka (808) 223-3448

E-mail: ⁠[email protected]⁠

Homepage

https://www.konkowahiawa.org/home

We are open daily from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm

⁠YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ5p5fDuZyH25i_Prth1K8A/featured

⁠⁠Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/konkomissionofwahiawa

⁠⁠Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/konkowahiawa/

Konkokyo Videos:

Introduction to Konkokyo

https://youtu.be/xytgSgfnwms

音楽： フリーBGM・音楽素材MusMushttps://musmus.main.jp/

This episode of "Konko Talk" commemorates the Fifth Konko-Sama, Rev. Heiki Konko, who passed away on July 21, 2024. The program features insights from Rev. Hideko Konko, a cousin of the late spiritual leader and a pioneering female minister at Konkokyo's central worship hall. The hosts discuss Rev. Heiki Konko's life, emphasizing his 30 years of service as Konko-Sama and his educational background, including his time at Waseda University where he studied Western philosophy and participated in the English Club. Special anecdotes highlight his fluency in English, his engaging personality, and his deep involvement in the arts and global culture. This reflective session offers a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of a revered figure in the Konkokyo community.