On January 26, the Shinbashira led 87,000 followers in the Spring Grand Service at the Main Sanctuary of Church Headquarters, commemorating the day Oyasama withdrew from physical life 116 years ago. Oyasama shortened Her physical life by 25 years in opening the "portals of the Shrine" on January 26, 1887, to step out to "level the ground" throughout the world. "Because of My love for you, My children," Oyasama said, "the Parent shortened Her life by twenty-five years to step out and save the world from now. Observe well." As indicated by these words, Her intention in withdrawing from physical life stemmed from Her parental love, which desires to hasten the spiritual growth of Her children, all humankind.

The followers who had assembled for the Service--including many from overseas--joined together in singing the songs that accompanied the Service while once again taking to heart Oyasama's intention in doing everything She could to urge the followers to perform the Service, even going to the extent of confronting them with a serious disorder of Her own body. The congregation made a firm commitment to carry out this year's pre-anniversary activities as befits the first year of the "three years, one thousand days" season leading up to the 120th Anniversary of Oyasama.