Meet The Team

Shigeo Nagayama

Rev. Nagayama is the head minister for the Newport Beach Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple.

Mr. Yoshihiko Kodama

Mr. Kodama, President of the board serves as the principal lay leader of the temple and works in close partnership with the resident minister and Board of Directors.

Mr. Akira Izushima

Mr. Izushima serves as the Temple Treasurer and maintains accounting record for Temple donations and expenses.

Mr. Wade Gracia

Chairman Wade provides leadership, oversees operations, fosters community engagement, supports the resident minister, and preserves traditions through governance and spiritual guidance. He became a chairman in 2024.

Mr. Yoshiaki Nitao

Mr. Nitao has been a long time member of the temple and serves as a principal leader in Temple direction and goals.

Ms. Michiko Suruki

Ms. Suruki is President of the Japanese Women Association at our temple and serves as chair representative on the board.

Ms. Kyoko Nakawaki

Ms. Nakawaki is Vice President of the Japanese Women Association at our temple and serves as chair representative on the board.

Mr. Aaron Faiola

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Mr. Matthew Mahoney

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