Established 1936 – John A. Collins, President

EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON, GRAND RAPIDS DOWNTOWN

Big E's Sports Grille

710 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2025 – 7:15 AM

Nihon was sometimes translated as “Land of the Rising Sun” from the early 8th century. The kamikaze (divine wind) saved Japan from two Mongol invasions in the 13th century.

Periods of Japanese history parallel the movement of the capital and the rise and fall of shogunate and the samurai class. Control by regional lords remind one of the feudal system in Europe, reduced by the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate that brought lasting peace to the country as Japan isolated itself from the rest of the world. Cities like Edo (present-day Tokyo) grew and popular culture flourished.

Then Commodore Matthew Perry arrived in 1853, forcing Japan to open to foreign influence, followed by the Meiji Restoration with the emperor restored to power.

Brian Hauenstein will present an image of 21st century Japan that will entice you to visit that wonderful country.

Invocation: Eric Nelson
Introduction: Paul Chardoul

Japan

1. “When you look at Japanese traditional architecture, you have to look at Japanese culture and its relationship with nature. You can actually live in a harmonious, close contact with nature - this very unique to Japan."
   ~ Tadao Ando
2. "I believe it is important that we Japanese write a constitution for ourselves that would reflect the shape of the country we consider desirable in the 21st century."
   ~ Shinzo Abe
   
3. (Nanakorobi yaoki) means "Fall down seven times, stand up eight." This simple yet powerful Japanese proverb perfectly captures the spirit of resilience and perseverance which is the essence of Japanese culture.