The Wailuku Hongwanji Mission’s “Hatsubon” service will only be held on Saturday, August 3, starting at 6:30 p.m. The following members will be memorialized at the service:
FRIDAY, AUGUST 02, 2024
Mildred Miyamoto – August 23, 2023
Yeiko “Tony” Arakaki – August 31, 2023
Gladys Asako Watanabe – September 10, 2023
SATURDAY, AUGUST 03, 2024
Katsue Shishido – July 12, 2023
Todd Eiji Yamafuji – August 14, 2023
Anita Toshiko Yamafuji – September 18, 2023
Ralph Takao Marushige – January 11, 2024
Shiori Yamashiro – January 20, 2024
Eleanor Yonamine – February 17, 2024
Stephen Tsuzaki – February 26, 2024
Sharon Takie Kawachi – March, 24, 2024
Yukie Ng – April 8, 2024
Richard Makino – June 13, 2024
Tomiko Yamagata – June 26, 2024
“Hatsubon” means first Obon. It is the first anniversary since the last Obon. This service provides family and friends to come together and reflect on how their loved one’s existence continues to embrace us through their thoughts, words, and deeds.
For the Hatsubon family and friends, or for that matter all of us, because death has touched each one of us, the realization of impermanence of the physical body leads us to a better understanding that your loved one’s life is continuing to guide and influence you.
As you reflect on the pain of the loss of our loved ones, we come to the realization that we should live each day and savor every moment for we do not know what tomorrow or the next moment will hold. The pain of your loss will always remain in your heart but also the good times and fond memories of your loved one will continue to be a part of you.
As we partake of the Obon festivities, we should also reflect upon the Truth of our existence, the Truth that our loved ones are continuing to influence and take effect upon our present lives. Obon is a time to express our gratitude for being given those conditions to live this life. And this is why, in our tradition of Jodo Shinshu, we call Obon, Kangi-e, or “Joyful Gathering” for it is an act of Namu Amida Butsu. Obon dance beings at 7:45 p.m