HALEIWA SHINGON MISSION
JULY 2024
On July 12th and 13th, Team 359 volunteered at the Hale’iwa Shingon Mission for a Obon (Bon Dance) that was held for the first time in five years, since 2019!
TAKING FOOD ORDERS
The students played a vital role in the bustling food booths, managing multiple tasks such as preparing food, taking orders, and handling money. They brought them to life with their joyful energy and dedication! Some of the delicious foods offered were saimin, cone sushi, teri burgers, and much more. Afterwards, you could get a delicious frozen treat, shave ice, with several toppings.
HONORING SPIRITS
Since the pandemic, Haleiwa Shingon Mission was unable to host a Bon Dance. However, Team 359's efforts and dedication allowed everyone to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and share in the rich cultural experience that the Bon Dance provides. Bringing back this event is another step into transitioning to our post-pandemic era as our lives return to normal. The summer Obon season perpetuates the Buddhist tradition of honoring the spirit of those passed on celebrated with special services and festivals. Families can honor their lost ones and celebrate life. Bon dances that have become a cultural touchstone for all in Hawaii, with many looking forward to them each year. The community is truly grateful for Team 359's hard work and commitment to preserving and promoting the cherished traditions that make our community unique.
SETTING UP CONCESSION
When the students arrived, they were each given an important job to help make the festival a success. They worked together to set up chairs, put up signs, manage parking, and handle the concession stand. Everyone's role was crucial, and this teamwork helped create a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone attending the event. This collaboration taught the students the value of working together and how each person's contribution matters in achieving a common goal. The event wouldn’t have survived without their help!
PREPARING FOOD
It’s the perfect refreshing dessert to enjoy! As attendees savored their meals, they were entertained by the captivating performances of the dancers and the thunderous beats of the taiko drummers, creating a delightful and engaging atmosphere. Everyone was welcome to join in the dancing, laughter, and celebration. It was a gratifying reminder that when we come together as a community, we can create happy memories and a warm, embracing environment for all to enjoy!
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
The summer Obon season perpetuates the Buddhist tradition of honoring spirits of those who have passed from the previous year by celebrating with special services and festivals. It was brought there by the plantation workers from Japan and began festivals often take place during June to August. Attendants dance line up in a circle around a high wooden scaffold made especially for the festival called a yagura. The festival includes food booths, taiko drummers and other colorful sights and sounds, bon dances that have become a cultural touchstone for all in Hawaii.
Check Out The Jodo Mission Bon Dance!
