[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 177 (Friday, October 24, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E996]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING RINBAN GERALD SAKAMOTO

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ZOE LOFGREN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 24, 2025

  Ms. LOFGREN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the public service of 
Rinban Gerald Sakamoto of San Jose, California, who has served the 
Buddhist church and community in San Jose for four decades.
  Mr. Sakamoto began his ministry journey in Hawaii, where he received 
his degree with an emphasis on Buddhism while working alongside 
ministers at the Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin. Mr. Sakamoto then 
later moved to Kyoto where he completed his Tokudo ordination and 
training to become a minister for the Buddhist church.
  Since Mr. Sakamoto's appointment to the San Jose Buddhist Church, he 
has been an active member of his community through youth outreach, 
Scouting programs, and community involvement. For many years, Mr. 
Sakamoto has led the opening and closing prayer at the Bon Odori dances 
that happen annually at the San Jose Odori Festival.
  His teachings have emphasized compassion, interdependence, and the 
relevance of Buddhist values in daily life, using accessible metaphors 
such as the difference between square and round tables to illustrate 
spiritual concepts. Sakamoto's Dharma messages explore themes like 
birth and death, and the importance of relationships with others, with 
our ancestors, and with the world around us. His inclusive and 
thoughtful style bridges tradition and modern life, making Buddhist 
teachings approachable for people of all ages.
  Rinban Gerald Sakamoto has helped bridge generations and make 
Buddhist teachings accessible to all. His thoughtful messages and 
inclusive leadership continue to leave a lasting impact on his temple 
and his community. As he approaches retirement, his legacy of service, 
compassion, and connection will be remembered with deep gratitude.

                          ____________________