The PL Declaration: "Life is Art. Man realizes life's true beauty, charm and meaning only when he lives an artistic life. Then, what is an artistic life? It is to freely express one's individuality in his particular field of work. However, one's true individuality cannot be expressed to the highest degree unless one is completely free of egoistic interest and selfish gains. One must live in a state of objectivity, expressing one's individuality in the interest and welfare of all mankind. We, members of PL, hereby declare to live an artistic life, detaching ourselves from egocentricity and expressing our individuality in complete freedom and spontaneousness. We, members of PL, also declare that it is our duty to propagate and implant the teachings of PL to the world and we shall contribute to the world community of men. Since the sole authority for all Divine Rites, teachings, activities, devotions and functions of PL is invested by God to the Patriarch, PL holds all of the Patriarch's writings, books, articles, sermons, lectures and sayings as authoritative. PRACTICES AND BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS: PL teachings require members to abide by and uphold "the Law of Land," and to live in strict accordance with PL teachings. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: Oshieoya (the Patriarch) is the sole and supreme authority in PL. Ministers achieving a certain enlightenment and state of mind are selected, designated Yuso (disciples) and granted the title "Oya." The succession of the Patriarch is assured and continuous. The successor is chosen from among the Yusos and elevated and trained. ROLE OF MINISTERS: PL ministers administrate churches, educate members in faithful living, minister to their spiritual needs, and function as leaders of the congregations. Their main duty is to convey the teachings of PL to members and non members alike. PL ministers are obligated to perform Divine Rites, Services, Ceremonies, all ritual and devotions wherever they are stationed. They are invested with authority for their particular mission by the Patriarch. Once ordained, they are solely responsible to the Patriarch. WORSHIP: While group worship is required, a member unable to attend services may conduct an abbreviated authorized version of the service alone, with his family, or with other members if he has a portable or family shrine. Members conduct morning and evening services in their homes. Participation in the monthly Thanksgiving Ceremony (21st of the month) and the ceremonies for the four annual festivals (Founders Day Kyoso Sai, August l; Oshieoya's Tanjo Sai Birthday December 2; New Year's Day January l; and PL Establishment Day PL Sai, September 29) is required. Attendance at other Services is recommended, but not required. Any minister, Hokyoshi (minister assistant), or qualified member may conduct worship services. Minimum equipment for worship: (1) Portable Shrine (Omitama),4" high,2" diameter, in a leather case: (2) PL Prayer Book (Kyoten); (3) Book of Divine Instructions (Mioshie); (4) Envelope for Offerings (Hosho). DIETARY LAWS OR RESTRICTIONS: Generally none, except when prescribed by a physician. The church's teachings advise practice of "Healthful Living" and moderation. Many members, therefore, abstain from the use of tobacco and alcohol, or some may be vegetarians. FUNERAL AND BURIAL REQUIREMENTS: A matter of individual choice. If the deceased has made his wishes known, his family would make those decisions after consulting a minister. A minister must conduct the special ceremony held within 24 hours after death (before the funeral), the burial or cremation service, the funeral service, and assist the family with the disposition of the remains. Autopsies may be performed when needed; however, permission from the family should be obtained, if Possible. MEDICAL TREATMENT: Generally no restrictions, when performed by competent authorities. OTHER: Service to one's country and to humanity as a whole is a cornerstone of PL Faith. The Church encourages members to be of service wherever or whenever needed. Due, however, to the basic pacifistic nature of the teachings and PL's vigorous efforts to bring about World Peace, if a PL member does seek exemption or non combatant status, the Church and its teachings will support his claims and rights. Members are required to wear an amulet (blessed by the Patriarch for bodily protection), usually a ring or pendant, at all times. PL badges are worn on an outer garment over the left side of the chest as a visible expression of faith. and most members wear them at all times. GENERAL SOURCE BOOKS: History and Doctrine. N.p.:Perfect Liberty Overseas Mission,[1982]. 112pp. The Story of the PL Founders: The Dawn of the Church of Perfect Liberty. Glendale, CA: Church of Perfect Liberty, 1985. 46pp. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Perfect Liberty Kyodan 700 S. Adams St. Glendale, CA 91205 (818) 956-7516 |
| Zen Buddhist priest. After the death of Kanada in 1919, Miki planted a shrub, called himorogi, and "worshipped" it for five years as Kanada had instructed him. In 1924, Miki received the new revelation which Kanada has promised, and founded Hito no Michi Kyodan (The Way of Man). Hi to no Michi, which emphasized the reality of both art and nature, met with considerable success in Japan. In 1927, however, it was prohibited by the Japanese military government. Miki was arrested and died in 1938. Miki's son, Tokuchika, became the leader of Hito no Michi until 1943, when the Japanese Supreme Court upheld the prohibition and Hito no Michi was disbanded. In 1946, Tokuchika and other leaders of Hito no Michi formed the Perfect Liberty Kyodan (Church of Perfect Liberty). In 1957, several lay missionaries began work in the U.S., and the first PL minister arrived in 1960. BASIC BELIEFS: (Perfect Liberty's perspective can be summarized thusly: |
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| Black Rose Spiritual Center, Inc : Belief Systems |
| Perfect Liberty Kyodan |
| ADDRESS: 700 S. Adams St. Glendale, CA 91205 OTHER NAMES BY WHICH KNOWN: Church of Perfect Liberty. LEADERSHIP: Tokuchika Miki, the Oshieoya (Father of the Teachings). MEMBERSHIP: Not reported. HISTORICAL ORIGIN: In 1912, Tokumitsu Kanada, a Shinto priest and ascetic, founded the Tokumitsu Kyo. One of Kanada's disciples was Miki Tokuharu, a former |
| (1) Life is Art. (2) Man's life is a succession of self expressions. (3) Man is a manifestation of God. (4) Man suffers if he fails to express himself. (5) Man loses his true self when swayed by feelings and emotions. (6) Man's true self is revealed when his ego is effaced. (7) All things exists in mutual relationship to one another. (8) Live radiantly as the sun. (9) All men are equal. (10) Strive for creating mutual happiness. (11) Have true faith in God. (12) There is a way (function) peculiar to every "name" (existence). (13) There is a way for men, and there is another for women. (14) All is for world peace. (15) All is a mirror. (16) All things progress and develop. (17) Comprehend what is most essential. (18) At every moment man stands at the crossroads of good and evil. (19) Act when your intuition dictates. (20) Live in perfect union of mind and matter. (21) Live in Perfect Liberty. The PL Creed: (1) I live for the joy of an artistic life. (2) I pray for the happiness of others. (3) I live with true effort and sincerity. (4) I maintain the highest dignity and honor. (5) I strive for the great Peace of the world |
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