The Shinbashira celebrated his 45th birthday in good health on January 16.

Following the morning service in the Main Sanctuary, the worship in the Foundress' Sanctuary and the Memorial Hall, as well as the practice performance of the Dance with Hand Movements in the Foundress' Hall on that day, the many followers who had filled up the hall joined together in extending birthday greetings to the Shinbashira.

The Shinbashira thanked the followers and went on to tell them: "I am grateful to say that, throughout the past year, I was able to serve in my role in good health. I would like to devote myself to working for the path again this year and, therefore, ask for your kind cooperation in this regard."