World News – Approximately 50 thousand people have packed Ala Moana Beach Park for the 2015 Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony.
According to organizers, 6,000 candle-lit lanterns will be set afloat from Magic Island in remembrance of loved ones who have passed.
Themed “Many Rivers, One Ocean,” the annual Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony provides an opportunity for thoughts and prayers from around the globe to create a moment of collective remembrance, harmony and international friendship.
As a result of the recent earthquakes in Nepal, prayers will be offered for the thousands of lives lost in that tragedy and for all afflicted people who struggle every day. Shinnyo-en’s presence in Asia allowed them to quickly come to the aid of the Nepalese moments after the earthquakes, providing an ambulance, donating relief supplies, and coordinating with international and local organizations.
The first Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony was held in 1999 at Ke‘ehi Lagoon on Memorial Day and has grown each year in response to community demand.
From Hawaii News Now
