Spotlight on Mary Jane Fujimura

Mary Jane Fujimura

“Mary Jane had the opportunity to meet Elvis Presley in Hawaii”

What is your history with Shin Buddhism?

I was born and raised Buddhist on the island of Kauai. I lived with my parents and grandparents, who took me to church and Sunday School—now called Dharma School—at Kapa’a Hongwanji Buddhist Temple every Sunday. I was very involved in the Junior Young Buddhist Association and made many friends from all the islands. I was also in the church’s Girl Scouts. 

What is your history at Orange County Buddhist Church?

I moved to Cypress in 1976. I wanted my children to get the same support I got from Buddhism, so we joined OCBC. I reconnected with a bunch of friends from Hawaii and other temples. My in-laws were among the pioneers at OCBC. 

How have you and your family been involved at OCBC?

My daughter and son were active in Sangha Teens. Today my daughter’s family is really active at the Seattle Betsuin. I was recruited by Reverend Marvin Harada to be a wedding coordinator. I did it for 17 years. Those were the happy days. I loved playing that role because I got to see how OCBC brought people together. Many of them are now the next leaders at OCBC and will raise the next generation of Shin Buddhists. Today, I am on the Board of Directors and a member of the Buddhist Women’s Association.

You are known for meeting Elvis Presley in Hawaii. What is your favorite song by Elvis?

“Love Me Tender” is one of the many beautiful songs.

What is your favorite festival food at OCBC? 

My favorite festival food is the dango and dango hot dog. I also enjoyed the oden.

What is the most important lesson you have learned from Shin Buddhism?

Buddhism has taught me to appreciate the good with the not-so-good. My grandmother told me that what I want or what I like is not how the world is always going to be. My father told me to accept the consequences of my choices and learn from my mistakes. They taught me that even though nothing is perfect, there is always something to cherish in the moment and something to learn from life’s challenges.   

Namo Amida Butsu,
Mary Jane Fujimura