Sending Prayers to Sea

Photo by Rick Schonely

Floating lanterns were released onto the ocean at sunset last Saturday in an observance honoring loved ones who have passed away. The third annual Floating Lantern Ceremony, hosted by Molokai’s Hospice Hawaii and Guzeiji Soto Mission, brought hundreds together in grief and gratitude with a theme of “in peace and harmony.”

Participants wrote messages on the paper lanterns, mounted on a wooden base with a waterproof candle. Standing at the water’s edge, they pushed their vessels into the breeze, releasing their prayers for the deceased. Later, the lanterns were retrieved by volunteers from the Wa`akapaemua Canoe Club.

Attendees of the event at the Molokai Community Health Center also enjoyed Taiko drumming and hula, along with food and fellowship.