Julie Berry, in conjunction with the Society of Friends (Quakers) from Sparta, has been organizing the Lantern-Floating Ceremony in Pinafore Park for more than twenty years. This past Monday (August 6th), she welcomed the people gathered to remember those who lost their lives due to the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan, August 6-9, 1945. She noted her dedication to the yearly ceremony, the importance of preventing another nuclear bombing from ever happening again, and also the joy to be found in the peaceful and beautiful display made by the lanterns on the water.
This year, Three-Penny Piece entertained with music and visitors from Japan joined in the ceremony. Barb Burgess who works with the LABO (Language Laboratory) exchange program spoke about the organization which teaches English to Japanese children through song, skits and games. Each year twelve to fourteen kids come to live with a Canadian family. This year, there are seven children in Ontario with two adult chaperones. Three of the children and the adults were able to come to attend the Pinafore Park ceremony. She also shared some information about Hiroshima City and the devastation caused by the nuclear bombing.
Mika Iechika, one of the LABO chaperones thanked the group gathered for praying for peace, noting that friendships between people around the world is what will bring peace. She also explained the meaning of the crane and paper cranes in Japan.
Mika Iechika, one of the LABO chaperones thanked the group gathered for praying for peace, noting that friendships between people around the world is what will bring peace. She also explained the meaning of the crane and paper cranes in Japan.
Above: Seina Matsuyama, Mika Iechika, Barb Burgess.
Above: Three Penny Piece (bottom left).
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