(BIVN) – Lanterns were released into Pauoa Bay at sunset on Sunday, as the 9th annual North Hawai‘i Hospice Floating Lantern Ceremony was held at the Fairmont Orchid.

Hundreds of residents and visitors took part in the free event, which commemorated loved ones who’ve passed on. According to a media release:

Lantern floating is an Asian spiritual tradition that symbolizes the wish for all beings to live in peaceful coexistence. As the lanterns are released onto the ocean, they take with them our healing prayers to honor and remember those who have passed. Lanterns are collected at the end of the release, the lantern bases are saved and the lantern papers are collected, dried and burned in a respectful manner.

“We’re so grateful to partner with Fairmont Orchid to offer the community such a moving ceremony to honor loved ones who’ve passed on,” says Katherine Werner Brooks, MHA, RN and Executive Director of North Hawai‘i Hospice. “While the journey of grief can be isolating for so many, this ceremony allows people to come together in shared community to remember those they’ve loved and lost. The strength and support they receive from this evening is profound.”

“We’re honored to host this special day of remembrance every year,” shares Fairmont Orchid General Manager, Kelley Cosgrove. “It’s our hope that this ceremony further unifies our community and shows love and respect to those who’ve passed.”