Gather in joy; Puna Hongwanji Obon is today, Saturday

The Puna Hongwanji Buddhist temple is hosting its Obon (“Gathering of Joy”) today and Saturday, July 5-6.

It’s a time to meet friends and make new friends.

Both nights a hatsubon (first memorial service in memory of those who passed away during the year) starts at 5:30 p.m. Today, the speaker for the service is the Rev. Satoshi Tomioka of Puna Hongwanji Buddhist Temple. On Saturday, the Rev. Jiko Nakade of Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission will be the featured guest speaker.

After the temple service, a short lantern parade will commence for hatsubon to remember their deceased loved ones. Puna Taiko will play a few numbers.

The bon dance will follow until 10:30 p.m.

On both nights, the concession will open at 6 p.m., with a variety of food available for everyone. Temple members have been busy in the kitchen preparing food and baked goods.

For more information, contact the temple at 966-9981.

Puna Hongwanji is located at 16-492 Old Volcano Road in Keaau.