Rev. Tetsuji Ochiai went back to Japan from July 25 to August 15 to attend the 29th International Association for Religious Freedom world congress. The IARF congress met at Encho University in Ikusan-city, Korea, from August 3 to August 7.

This was the third IARF congress in Asia. Over 500 people representing over 70 religious groups attended from all over the world.

Dr. Yukitaka Yamamoto, Mr. Yuji Inokuma, Rev. Hitoshi Iwasaki, Rev. Tetsuji Ochiai, and 24 shrine members participated.

The opening ceremony started at 10:00 am August 3. Every day there were worship services, circle groups, workshops, and study groups.

At the study group, Tsubaki member, Dr. Yutaka Furuta, a nuclear physicist who was president of the Japan chapter of IARF explained the use of present technology. He warned about the poor use of nuclear technology, reminding listeners about Chernobyl. Finally he said , we need the coexistence of religion and science.

At the another study group, Dr. Yukitaka Yamamoto appealed to participants we need to harmonize our humanity and nature.

At a workshop on Shinto, Dr. Sturart D.B. Picken explained importance of Shinto in Japanese society and Rev. Takahiko Miwa explained the difference between Shrine Shinto and State Shinto.

Dr. Yamamoto was elected president of IARF at the final business meeting. At the close of the congress, almost 200 participants went to a prayer service at an observation point looking across the river to North Korea.

1996