Even before one comes to Crestone, Colorado we hear of the Mystique of the area. As we build the Crestone project this mystique is becoming even clearer. Creating a project the size of the Crestone Center is a major undertaking. Never in the history of Crestone, or the surrounding area, has a spiritual group of any magnitude attempted to build a complex such as we are doing.

From the very beginning we were blessed with having workman who became committed to doing their best work and have formed a personal attachment with the work involved. When on our site they observe all the rules we have established for behaving and show their reverence for this purified area. We believe that the mystique of Crestone has touched them deeply and that, without them even realizing it, they are aware that Meishusama is watching over us.

Presently, we are nearing final completion of the Caretaker House. The Sanctuary is now closed in and the solar heating system is fully functional. In early January Sensei Alan Imai and I travel to Canada to see the completion and full-size assembly of the handcrafted alter. Then, within weeks it will arrive for installation in the sanctuary. The Sanctuary, when completed, will be a place for worship, lectures, performances and the many activities we are planning for the Crestone Center. It will truly be an International Center for peoples from all over the world.

We were also very excited about the installation of the awning cover at the ampitheatre. This very unusual and innovative covering system will provide shade from the sun when it is needed. The theatre will be a pleasant experience for those attending any of the Shumei gatherings or creative performances. The center will also make this outdoor theatre available in the spirit of cooperation among all of the other spiritual groups and community organizations.

The Food Service and Meeting Room is now being framed with the roof sub structure now in place. From its vantage point above the old stone walls it will have a commanding view of the San Luis Valley below. The interior space will provide an eating area for our members and guests as well as a meeting room for lectures, discussions, workshops, spiritual classes, and much more. Those coming to the Crestone Center can not but help to feel the Mystique of the San Luis Valley when being among the center complex.

Even though the weather has changed, it is now very cold with a few snow flurries, work on the Grand Entry continues at a fast pace. Our original intention was to create an entry, with steps and waterfalls, that looked and felt like the construction of the one-hundred year old walls of the old mine site. Again, the workmen have joined in our pursuit of quality and respect for the site and are doing an outstanding job. We have as an example, the work the volunteers from the various centers in Japan did when they were here. We are continuing with the quality of their work. During the course of construction we have had many visitors to the site. It is always exciting to take people on a tour so they can see our progress, explaining about the philosophy of Shinji Shumeikai, and our plans for the center. We still have much work to do. There is completion of all structures and the site work; the landscaping, improving the roads and making new ones. Creating paths throughout the site and of course, making everything ready for our Dedication. The work will continue and we will update everyone with our progress.

I wish to personally thank Meishusama, Kaicho Sensei, the Shumei Family, and the Executive Committee for the opportunity to work on this important project.