“We’re not always talking about religion, but about life. That’s where real ministry happens.”

 

 

Rev. Alan Urasaki’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion and the impact one can have on the lives of others. From his early days as a resident assistant to his role as the first Buddhist chaplain within the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Alan’s path has been shaped by a commitment to service and an unwavering belief in the transformative nature of human connection.

 

Alan majored in communication at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, drawn by an interest in broadcasting. “At first, I thought I’d go into broadcasting, but as I took classes and met more people, my focus shifted. I became more interested in organizational and interpersonal communication—dealing with people, rather than just being in front of a camera.” This newfound passion was further nurtured by his time as a resident assistant (RA) in student housing. “Being an RA helped me realize that I had a knack for helping others. Students would come to me with their issues—whether it was roommate conflicts or personal struggles—and it shaped my understanding of what’s now called the ‘helping profession.’”

 

After graduating, he moved back to Hilo and found himself at a crossroads, unsure of what his next step would be. Eventually, the pull to continue his education led him back to O‘ahu, where he pursued a master’s degree in higher educational administration, with a focus on student affairs.

 

But another significant part of Alan’s life was his deep connection to his Buddhist faith, which had been a constant from high school through graduate school. “I was always involved in youth programs, camps, and conventions through our church, Hilo Hongwanji.” This involvement ultimately led to a pivotal decision. “When I graduated with my master’s, I found myself at another fork in the road. I wasn’t sure if I had what others refer to as a ‘calling,’ but I was drawn to becoming a minister.”

 

In the late 1980s, Alan pursued this path, attending seminary in Berkeley, California, where he received a scholarship from his denomination. After two and a half years of rigorous study, he graduated in 1991 with a master’s degree and soon traveled to Japan to complete his ordination. “After my ordination, I returned to Hawai‘i and started my ministry at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin.”

 

Assigned to hospital visitations, Alan was quickly introduced to chaplaincy through Interfaith Ministries of Hawai‘i, now known as Pacific Health Ministry (PHM). His connection with the chaplains and hospital staff sparked a deeper interest in chaplaincy. “That’s when I realized I needed more training. Kiyo Itokazu, an interfaith chaplain, encouraged me to take Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE).”

 

The CPE program was a transformative experience for Alan. “It was eye-opening because it wasn’t just about learning how to do things—it made you examine your own ideas, biases, and perspectives,” he shares. His participation in interdisciplinary teams at Kuakini Medical Center further solidified his desire to become a chaplain. “The CPE class really helped me grow, and I encourage other ministers to take it. It helps you question yourself and recognize things in yourself that you might not see otherwise.”

 

Before working at the federal prison, Alan served as a minister at ‘Aiea Hongwanji for about six years. When the opportunity arose to serve as a chaplain at the prison, he embraced it, becoming the first Buddhist chaplain within the Federal Bureau of Prisons. While there are all kinds of different Buddhist denominations and traditions, Alan mostly focused on the Japanese denomination. His role involved establishing policy procedures and conducting training sessions on Buddhist beliefs and practices. He also often assisted inmates who had questions about Buddhist traditions. “As a chaplain, I ensure that all inmates, not just Buddhists, have an opportunity to practice their faith within the prison.”

 

Despite the challenges, Alan never encountered issues with the inmates during his 20-year tenure. His approach to ministry involved building connections with people, regardless of their religious beliefs. “We’re not always talking about religion, but about life. That’s where real ministry happens.”

 

Since retiring, Alan has continued his spiritual work, assisting at Shinshu Kyokai Mission in Honolulu. Alan’s compassion and dedication to his faith continue to influence him in retirement and as an advisor to others in the ministry.