SGI Members Around the World Celebrate New Year

In early January, 2009, SGI members in 192 countries and territories gathered in their respective locales to usher in the new year, designated by the SGI as "Year of Youth and Victory." SGI President Daisaku Ikeda led new year prayers service at the Soka Gakkai headquarters in Shinanomachi, Tokyo. In his message celebrating the New Year, Mr. Ikeda expressed his appreciation for the members' efforts in creating peace in society and encouraged them to further advance with a youthful spirit.

[Adapted from articles in the January 4, 5 and 6, 2009 issues of the Seikyo Shimbun, Soka Gakkai, Japan]