Today, September 21st, St. Anthony School celebrated Peace Day by taking part in “Ring Your Bell for Peace Day.” The organizers of this event, Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, invited young people from around the world to partake in this celebration.

Joining with churches, schools and individuals from across the state, country and other nations, 7th Grader, Samantha Diaz and 8th Grader, Tori Peterson, watched the virtual opening ceremony on zoom. The ceremony began at 12:00PM with Bishop Eric Matsumoto of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, who led a minute of silence, honoring all those who have sacrificed for the achievement of peace. At 12:01PM Samantha and Tori began to ring the St Anthony Church bell for 5 continuous minutes. The sound of the bells ringing was a reminder for all who heard them to work towards peace.

The students were able to participate in a world peace initiative centered on youth as leaders of peace in our world. The rest of the school were able to join in from their classrooms as the church bell’s tone peeled loudly across the campus and beyond!

It was a great idea and the organizers hope to continue it each year. May we be inspired by the efforts of the Buddhist Temples of Honpa Hongwanji Mission and Bishop Larry Silva to live with kindness, respect, peace and Aloha.