Hiroshima to Hope

[Guest guest]

Hiroshima to Hope

2002 FAMILY PROGRAM

August 6, 2002

 

6:30-8:00 PM Gathering south of Bathhouse Theter at Green Lake, lantern preparation,

picnicking. Tables for making Lanterns close at 8 PM

7:30-7:50 Pre-show Music--Silk Strings

7:55-8:20 Taiko Drums

8:20 Blessing

8:25-8:45 Opening remarks by Emcee, Frank Jones

8:30-8:45 Music--Children of Japan-Seattle Suzuki Institute International

8:45-8:55 Keynote Remarks by Dr. Ratnes A. Nagda, Assistant Professor at U of W

8:55-9:05 Chorus--three songs

9:05-9:12 Introduction to the Lantern Floating Ceremony by Rev. Tamura, Seattle Nichiren Buddist Church

9:12-9:30 Toro Nagashi Lantern Floating Ceremony and Lantern Floating Procession

10:00 PM Pizza and Beer

 

Location is about 100 feet south of the Bathhouse Theater on the west side of Green Lake.

If you want to float a lantern you should get there earlier because lines start to from as soon as lantern preparation starts.

Words of the songs will be in the program. We will encourage all present to join in at least one song.

 

For many attendee this is a very emotional event. If you haven't been, there is an interesting mix of picnicking and almost church-like behavior. There are tables where people will assist in forming a very simple lantern. You will be provided with all materials including candle. The screen will have calligraphy in the form of a prayer for peace. Many people then personalize their floating lantern. They add names, create additional structures, affix peace cranes, etc. After the music and chanting, the lanterns are lit and taken to a small dock and placed on the water. The wind spreads the lanterns across that area of the lake.

 

People sit on the grass. Many will have food and make an evening of the event