From November 4th to 7th, I was invited to speak a total of 10 times over 4 days: as a preacher for the Special Worship Service during the Autumn Religious Week at Doshisha Junior and Senior High Schools, for the Chapel Hour at Doshisha Women’s College, and as a lecturer for the Doshisha Junior and Senior High School Faculty Religious Education Workshop.

The total number of students at Doshisha Junior and Senior High Schools, combined with attendees at other lectures and events, exceeded 5,000. It was my first time speaking to such a large audience in such a short period. Moreover, it was my first visit to all the schools, and I met the teachers in charge for the first time, except for two. Although they are all part of the Doshisha group, each school naturally has its own distinct history and characteristics, making it a highly stimulating week.

What left a lasting impression was Doshisha’s free and bright atmosphere. There were no uniforms at any of the schools, and this spirit was evident in the students’ appearance—their clothing, hairstyles, and belongings. Through the meals shared with the religious department teachers, we quickly became comfortable with each other, as if we had known each other for years, and our conversations flowed freely over a wide range of topics. Though it was still a bit early for the autumn leaves, visiting a different location each day made me feel like I was truly enjoying autumn in Kyoto.