The Lahaina Hongwanji Mission congregation will dedicate its newly built columbarium on Friday night.

LAHAINA – Lahaina Hongwanji Mission will celebrate its Obon Festival on Friday, June 22, and Saturday, June 23, on the temple grounds located at 551 Wainee St.

The public is invited to join temple members in this celebration. Food, games and crafts will be on sale and available to the public.

The annual Obon Festival is a time when families and friends come together to pay their respects to loved ones who have passed away.

A ceremonial mochi pounding will be featured on Friday night as the congregation dedicates its newly built columbarium. Mochi Tsuki will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by a brief dedication service of the nokotsudo. The public is welcome to view the ceremony.

Friday night’s theme is “O Kage Sama De,” which, simply translated, means the showing of respect to the deceased and living elders in appreciation for their commitment and work in guiding the younger generation. Obon dancing will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m.

A special Hatsubon service will be held on Saturday in the main temple at 6 p.m. The Hatsubon service is a memorial service for family members and friends of church members who passed away during the year since the last Obon. Rev. Ai Hironaka will preside over this service.

Food and craft sales will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Food items on sale will include teriyaki and chicken katsu mini-bento, chow fun, andagi, cold somen noodles, sushi and shave ice. Soda and water will also be on sale.

The Buddhist Women’s Association will display and sell crafts, featuring quilts and other items made during the year. Games for the keiki will be available. All food items and games can be purchased using scrip. Cash sales will only apply to craft items.

For additional information, contact Lahaina Hongwanji Mission President Richard “Noosh” Nishihara at 870-6478 or any church member.