August 7, 2012 > A call to remembrance, gratitude, and joy A call to remembrance, gratitude, and joy The Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church invites the community to join with them in celebrating the annual Buddhist Festival of Obon. An important practice in the Buddhist tradition, Obon is a time for people to come together and honor the memory of their ancestors and recently passed loved ones. Obon gives participants the opportunity to show respect and gratitude for those who have come before and what they have contributed to our lives. The celebration calls for humbleness, reflection, praise, and joy as attendees remember the past and embrace the present, aiming to treat others with kindness and gentleness, and to live lives of peace. Beginning Saturday, August 11, festivities will include Buddhist dancing, Japanese music and food, as well as a Taiko Drum performance. On the following Sunday at 10 a.m. an Obon Service will be held in honor of loved ones, with a special service called Hatsubon (First Obon Service) for those who have lost someone within the past year. Rev. John Iwohara from Vista Buddhist Temple in Vista, California, is this year's guest speaker. The Obon Festival is open to everyone, regardless of culture or religion. It is an opportunity for unity and the recognition of the brother and sisterhood of all, fostering gratitude, and joy for the blessings in our lives. Obon Festival Saturday, August 11 Food Sales: 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. Bon Dance: 7 p.m. Obon Service Sunday, August 12 10 a.m. Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church 32975 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City (510) 471-2581 www.sacbc.org