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Faith's Beacon: A Journey of Healing and Devotion

After retiring from the Honolulu Police Department, Glenn Sr. found a new calling as the head minister of the North Honolulu Church, a role he assumed from his own father, who was the first head minister. Embracing this role with a deep sense of duty, he dedicated himself to guiding the congregation through the teachings of Oyasama, the Foundress of the Tenrikyo religion. His days were filled with prayer, counseling, and serving others, bringing him immense joy and fulfillment. Tending to the church and its members became his primary mission. Additionally, he embarked on a career in real estate, balancing his professional and spiritual responsibilities with unwavering commitment. The responsibility to lead and nurture his congregation was a mission he accepted with his whole heart.

Only a few years passed, and the church thrived under his leadership. However, an unexpected and harrowing challenge arose when he began to feel unwell. The illness persisted, leading to a series of medical consultations. Finally, the devastating diagnosis came: he was in stage 4 cancer and had only six months to live. The doctor’s words were heavy with urgency, urging him to get his affairs in order.

Glenn Jr., who was already visiting from the mainland due to his father’s illness, received the news with a heavy heart. He had always dreamed of becoming a corporate lawyer in a bustling city like New York or San Francisco. Yet, without hesitation, he made the difficult decision to abandon those dreams. He returned to the mainland only to pack his belongings, choosing instead to come back home to support his family and prepare to take over his father’s responsibilities at the church.

Glenn Sr. knew that his son, only then in his twenties, needed more time before assuming the heavy responsibilities of being a head minisher. One night, as he lay suffering in his bed, he made a solemn vow to Oyasama, promising that if granted more time, he would dedicate himself to shepherding the congregation with even greater devotion. This deep, unwavering faith and the teachings of Oyasama, which emphasize joyous living through sincerity and selfless action, became the bedrock of his resilience.

Against all odds, his condition began to improve. The congregation, the doctors, and even his family were astonished by his recovery. What had seemed impossible was happening—his health was returning. This miraculous turnaround was seen as a direct result of his sincere prayers and his vow to Oyasama.

Glenn Sr. continued to lead the church with renewed vigor, attributing his recovery to the divine intervention of Oyasama and his promise to dedicate himself fully to his spiritual duties. His survival became a beacon of hope and faith for the entire congregation, reinforcing their belief in the miraculous power of sincere devotion and prayer.

For Glenn Jr., through this experience, he discovered the true meaning of faith, resilience, and the power of community. His father’s miraculous recovery highlighted the profound impact of their faith and the teachings of Oyasama.