Get ready to don your dancing shoes and celebrate the reopening of the historic Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple on September 9th, 2023. The East Maui community of Hāna is hosting a joyous Bon Dance as part of the festivities, paying homage to the rebirth of the temple while also raising funds for the Japanese temples devastated by the tragic Lahaina blaze. This event aims to bring a ray of light and positivity to the community, serving as a beacon of hope and renewal. Built in 1940 by Japanese Buddhist immigrants, the temple underwent a restoration process thanks to the efforts of concerned citizens. So mark your calendars for a day filled with blessings, delicious food, captivating performances by Maui Taiko, and the final Bon dance of the season. Don’t miss this opportunity to support the temple by becoming a matching funds sponsor or participating in the silent auction and donation boxes. It’s time to embrace the spirit of celebration and come together for a truly memorable event.
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Historic Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Temple reopens Sept. 9 with Bon Dance celebration
The historic Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple in East Maui is set to reopen on September 9, 2023, and the community of Hāna couldn’t be more excited. The reopening will be marked with a festive Bon Dance, which will not only honor the rebirth of the temple but also serve as a fundraiser for the Japanese temples that were tragically destroyed in the recent Lahaina blaze. It is a celebration of culture, resilience, and unity, and the organizers hope that it will bring some much-needed positivity and renewal to the community.
Background
The Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple holds significant historical and cultural value for the Japanese Buddhist immigrants who settled in the area. Constructed in 1940, the temple became a symbol of faith and community for the local Japanese population. However, in recent years, the building had fallen into disrepair, and there were concerns about its preservation. Thankfully, in 2014, a group of dedicated individuals recognized the temple’s importance and took it upon themselves to save the building. Through their efforts, they were able to complete a comprehensive renovation, which included restoring the ornamental elements and reinforcing the structural integrity of the temple.
Efforts to Save the Building
The journey to save the Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple was not an easy one. A small group of concerned citizens came together, driven by their love for the temple and their desire to preserve its historical significance. They worked tirelessly, going above and beyond to raise funds and rally community support. It was their unwavering dedication that made the restoration project possible. The renovation involved extensive work, with new structural elements being put in place and the beautifully carved ornamental details being meticulously restored. Thanks to the efforts of these passionate individuals, the temple has been given a new lease on life.
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Reopening Celebration
The reopening celebration of the Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple is a momentous occasion for the Hāna community and beyond. The event will kick-off with a vibrant Bon Dance, a traditional Japanese festival dance that brings people together in celebration and remembrance. It is a joyous and energetic dance that welcomes individuals of all ages and backgrounds to join in the festivities. The Bon Dance will serve as a symbol of the temple’s renewed spirit and its role as a pillar of community and cultural heritage.
Bon Dance
The Bon Dance is an integral part of Japanese culture, particularly during the summer months. It is a time for communities to come together and honor their ancestors, expressing gratitude for their contributions and remembering their legacy. The dance is accompanied by traditional music and involves various choreographed movements that are easy to follow, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun. Lanterns are often placed around the dance area, creating a magical ambiance as participants move in graceful unison. The Bon Dance at the Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Temple will be a vibrant and inclusive event that captures the spirit of unity and tradition.
Fundraising for Lahaina Blaze
In addition to celebrating the temple’s reopening, the event will also serve as a fundraiser for the Japanese temples that were devastated by the recent Lahaina blaze. The fire, which caused immense damage and loss, deeply affected the Japanese community, as these temples held great cultural and religious significance. The Hāna community recognizes the importance of supporting their fellow Japanese temples during this challenging time and is committed to doing their part. The funds raised through the event will go towards the restoration and rebuilding efforts of the affected temples, providing much-needed support and solidarity.
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Schedule of Events
The reopening celebration of the Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple promises to be a day filled with joy, reflection, and cultural appreciation. The schedule of events for the day is as follows:
Blessing at 4:30 p.m.
The celebration will commence with a special blessing ceremony at 4:30 p.m. It will be a moment of reverence and gratitude, as the temple’s rebirth is honored and acknowledged. The blessing will set the tone for the rest of the evening, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the temple and its place within the community.
Food at 5 p.m.
Following the blessing, attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in delicious food offerings at 5 p.m. Traditional Japanese cuisine will be available, providing a taste of authentic flavors and culinary delights. Sharing a meal together fosters a sense of togetherness and provides an opportunity for attendees to connect and engage in conversation.
Maui Taiko at 6 p.m.
The highlight of the evening will be the captivating performance by Maui Taiko, a renowned taiko drumming group. Taiko drums are an integral part of Japanese culture and have a powerful and mesmerizing presence. The rhythmic beats and synchronized movements of the performers create an immersive and memorable experience. The performance by Maui Taiko will undoubtedly captivate the audience and add an extra layer of excitement to the celebration.
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Sponsorship Opportunities
To make the reopening celebration of the Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple a resounding success, the organizers are seeking sponsors to match the funds raised through silent auctions and donation boxes (osai sen bako). By becoming a matching funds sponsor, individuals and organizations can contribute to the restoration efforts of the temple and the support for the Japanese temples affected by the Lahaina blaze. Those interested in becoming a sponsor can contact the temple via email at hanabuddhisttemple@gmail.com to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.
Matching Funds Sponsors
Matching fund sponsors play a crucial role in amplifying the impact of fundraising efforts. By matching the funds raised, these sponsors instantly double the amount of support provided, creating a ripple effect that benefits the temple and the broader community. Becoming a matching funds sponsor is an opportunity to make a tangible difference and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage. The temple welcomes all interested individuals and organizations to participate in this meaningful endeavor.
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Conclusion
The reopening celebration of the Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and cultural preservation. Through the efforts of dedicated individuals, the historic temple has been restored to its former glory, ready to serve as a beacon of faith and tradition once again. The celebration will not only commemorate the rebirth of the temple but also raise funds for the Japanese temples affected by the devastating Lahaina blaze. It is a time for the Hāna community to come together, dance, reflect, and show support for one another. By attending the reopening celebration and considering sponsorship opportunities, individuals can contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and make a lasting impact on the community. The reopening of the Hāna Gakuen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that celebrates the past, embraces the present, and looks toward a vibrant future.