Today marks the 64th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. In remembrance of that day, the 20th Hiroshima Commemoration and Peace Service was held at the Izumo Taishakyo Mission.

Attendees rallied for peace among nations, using the attack on Hiroshima and the peaceful attitude in which the people of Hiroshima rebuilt their city as a reminder of what happens when relations go awry.

Those in attendance included Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Sen. Brian Taniguchi, members of Hiroshima’s Little League Baseball Team and chairman of the Hiroshima-Nishi Little League Baseball, Keigo Hakojo. Members of different religious communities were there, as well.

Thomas Choo, of the Order of the Sacred Hearts, gave a brief speech about the importance of peace and servitude among nations, and Rev. Richard Tennes, of Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin, sang “May Peace Prevail.”

Following the song was Bianca Nagata, a student at the Pacific Buddhist Academy, talking about the impact the bombing of Hiroshima had on her, even decades after the attack took place. She also gave words of encouragement for those who seek peace.

Hakojo, whose family was affected by the bombing, also expressed his thoughts and feelings of the events that have taken place since.

Afterward, attendees were asked to stand together and sing “We Are the World” by Michael Jackson. Hannemann stepped to the podium and encouraged everyone to sing and wave their hands in the air for world peace.

The festivities ended with the ringing of the peace bell, a replica of the Hiroshima Peace Bell, given to Hawaii in recognition of the long-standing and strong relationship between Honolulu and Hiroshima.