Obon Matsuri Parade

One day, the elders were dendoing (missionary contacting) in our local park. They saw and heard a large group of guys chanting and marching around.  They went over to investigate, and found they were practicing for the upcoming Obon Matsuri Parade- a big deal in town.  They were practicing carrying the Mikoshi.  They invited the elders to join them, which they did.  They then asked them if they would like to do it in the real parade.  The elders were over the moon about it.  They were so excited.  They checked with members (to make sure the religious significance was okay.  The members said they thought it's roots were in what we call the Ark of the Covenant, which we found to be very interesting!  How does this non-Christian nation know about that?- and yet it is part of their ancient  tradition.)  They checked with the mission president, too, just to be sure and he gave them permission (as long as they wore their name tags and drank plenty of water!  It is hot!)  So, they attended practices and then participated on the day of the parade.  The entire parade was a fascinating cultural experience.  But the last entry- the Mikoshi bearers, were definitely the highlight of the whole thing.  We were the photographers/ videographers)

It's easy to pick out Elder Dance.  Elder Price is tall, so he was in the back, so he's not as easy to see.  Look for a red head.

There were many other parts of the parade as well, all representing ancient Japanese tradition and culture. 

The Geisha girls were beautiful and guarded.

A fierce guard.

 zx

 It was such a cultural experience.  We were so touched that so many of the young were willing and honored to be part of this and to represent their ancient roots.  The costumes were not comfortable on such a hot day and it was a long walk.  Notice the ancient-style shoes these boys had to wear.  My feet hurt just looking at them.

And again, the grand finale was the mikoshi.  Our elders made many friends that day.   It was great missionary work.

Good job, guys!