Memorial Day celebrations are unique in Honolulu. Besides the remembrances at Punchbowl Military Cemetery with the leis draped on each grave, the military jet fly over salute, the day ends with an ancient Japanese lantern floating ceremony.
The lanterns are set afloat with prayers representing our affection for the deceased. There are about 40,000 thousands people gather at Ala Moana Beach Park for yesterday's evening Lantern Floating Ceremony. The ceremony remembers those who gave their lives in conflict, allows for reflection on the memories of loved ones and dedicates prayers for a peaceful and harmonious future. Just as the waters of the Pacific merge with each ocean, the wish for peace and happiness extends from Hawaii across the globe. That's why the theme for this year's ceremony is "Many Rivers, One Ocean."
A limited number of lanterns (2200) are available to the public. Sr Gioan Linh managed to pick up a lantern to share with Sr Susan John.
The program includes a Shinnyo taiko's performance which offered as a prayer for peace, Melinda Caroll, a singer-songwriter from Maui, performs country western music, the Oli and Hula,etc...
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