Konko Talk

Koichi Konko

Konko Talk is a program where people in the Konko Faith talk about various topics. The thoughts and opinions we share on this program may differ from yours, but we hope that you will enjoy and learn something new. Perhaps we’ll learn something new that may affect our thoughts, behaviors and actions for the better. Our different backgrounds, religions, thoughts, and culture provide a diversity that strengthens our community, just like biodiversity is essential for a healthy planet Earth.

  1. 100 Years of Faith: The Story and Future of Konko Missions in Hawaiʻi

    1d ago

    100 Years of Faith: The Story and Future of Konko Missions in Hawaiʻi

    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 HawaiʻiThe establishment of Mamichi-kai and the first churchesWorld War II internment of Konko ministersRev. Haruko Takahashi’s faith and perseverancePreserving Japanese culture within Konko FaithSharing Konko teachings with future generationsThe significance of the KMH 100th AnniversaryKonko-sama’s upcoming visit to HawaiʻiThe unique value of Toritsugi MediationMahalo for listening to Konko Talk. Please subscribe, share with your family and friends, and join us in celebrating the Konko Missions in Hawaiʻi Centennial. 🌺🙏 konkotalk@gmail.com

    41 min
  2. “A Listener’s Faith Journey: 
Rin’s Path of Growth in Konko Faith”

    Apr 4

    “A Listener’s Faith Journey: Rin’s Path of Growth in Konko Faith”

    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 faithThe role of Toritsugi mediation in everyday lifePracticing faith beyond knowledgeOvercoming struggles through prayer and gratitudeThe importance of community and spiritual supportWhether 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: konkotalk@gmail.com 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: ⁠konkowahiawa207@gmail.com ⁠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/

    50 min
  3. Konko Talk #26 Exploring Aiyokakeyo in Konko Talk The Essence of Mutual Fulfillment

    Jan 9

    Konko Talk #26 Exploring Aiyokakeyo in Konko Talk The Essence of Mutual Fulfillment

    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: ⁠konkowahiawa207@gmail.com ⁠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/

    42 min
  4. Konko Talk #25 Hiroshima, Faith, and Peace: A Conversation with Rev. Arei Shirakami*

    09/21/2025

    Konko Talk #25 Hiroshima, Faith, and Peace: A Conversation with Rev. Arei Shirakami*

    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: ⁠konkowahiawa207@gmail.com⁠Homepagehttps://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/

    54 min
  5. Konko Talk #24 – Pray Anywhere, Anytime, and for Anything"

    08/13/2025

    Konko Talk #24 – Pray Anywhere, Anytime, and for Anything"

    Contact via email at konkotalk@gmail.com00:00 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: ⁠konkowahiawa207@gmail.com⁠Homepagehttps://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/

    47 min
  6. Konko Talk #23 – A New Chapter in Hilo: Rev. Yoki’s Journey of Faith and Calling

    05/28/2025

    Konko Talk #23 – A New Chapter in Hilo: Rev. Yoki’s Journey of Faith and Calling

    Contact via email at konkotalk@gmail.com 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: ⁠konkowahiawa207@gmail.com⁠ 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/

    36 min
  7. Konko Talk #22 "Practicing Faith in Daily Life: Insights from Konko Talk #22"

    03/11/2025

    Konko Talk #22 "Practicing Faith in Daily Life: Insights from Konko Talk #22"

    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 konkotalk@gmail.com 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: ⁠konkowahiawa207@gmail.com⁠ 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/

    48 min

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About

Konko Talk is a program where people in the Konko Faith talk about various topics. The thoughts and opinions we share on this program may differ from yours, but we hope that you will enjoy and learn something new. Perhaps we’ll learn something new that may affect our thoughts, behaviors and actions for the better. Our different backgrounds, religions, thoughts, and culture provide a diversity that strengthens our community, just like biodiversity is essential for a healthy planet Earth.