OBON FESTIVAL

2020 OBON FESTIVAL

Dear families and friends of West Covina Buddhist Temple,

I hope this message finds you and your loved ones safe and doing well!  This is the time of the year when we celebrate the lives of our loved ones who have passed.  During Obon festivities we hang lights and lanterns, prepare food and demonstrations, visit with friends and families, and most importantly, participate in Manto-e ceremony and Bon Odori.  In the past, we have congregated at the East San Gabriel Japanese Community Center and the West Covina Buddhist Temple to honor those that have passed on.  We have come together to prepare for this wonderful annual event.  With the help of the Sangha and friends, we transform the Center parking lot and grounds into a place to acknowledge the people we miss so much.  Unfortunately, I regret to inform the Sangha, families, and friends, that due to our current situation of social distancing, this year’s Obon Festival has been cancelled.  However, let us continue to be thankful for the love and memories that our family members have given us and light incense and gassho for them.  I look forward to seeing all of you when we, once again, are allowed to gather and celebrate together!  Please be safe and take care of yourselves and your family and friends.

Gassho,
Bruce Whang