18th Annual Pilgrimage of Compassion at Lawa‘i International Center

Grandmaster Riley Lee, world-renowned shakuhachi flutist. Contributed photo

It’s time for hearts to unite on the sacred grounds of Lawa‘i International Center. The Center welcomes all to the 18^th annual Pilgrimage of Compassion on Sunday, Aug. 12 from 1 to 4:30 p.m. The program will start at 2:30 p.m. celebrating the timeless spiritual vision of a valley long recognized as a healing sanctuary.

Grandmaster Riley Lee, world-renowned shakuhachi flutist will issue a call to the pilgrims of the world. Carried by the wind through the trees, the soothing sounds of Grandmaster Lee’s shakuhachi are the voice of Lawa‘i International Center. Riley Lee’s Grandmaster designation did not come easily. He attained the rank 35 years ago after rigorous training that included practicing barefoot in the snow, blowing his flute while standing under a waterfall, and playing in blizzards until icicles formed at the tip of his flute. He has performed extensively throughout the United States, Europe and Asia.

Taiko drummers. Contributed photo

The members of Taiko Kaua‘i will add their drumbeats to open the event. There will also be a bonsai exhibit, ikebana and calligraphy demos, bake sale, silent auction, as well as mochi and taro pounding, cultural and culinary demonstrations.

Lawa‘i International Center is a nonprofit, nondenominational community project driven by its volunteers, whose earnest efforts are bringing the valley back to prominence as an international center of compassion, education, and cultural understanding.

Please bring an umbrella and wear comfortable shoes for this hillside walk. And if possible, please car pool and arrive early to facilitate parking. The gates open at 1 p.m. with demonstrations and exhibits open. The program starts at 2:30 p.m.

Lawa‘i International Center is at 3381 Wawae Rd, Kalaheo.

Donations are gratefully accepted. Call 212-1349 or 639-5952, or visit www.lawaicenter.org/, or email LM@hawaii.rr.com for more information.

Hall of Compassion. Contributed photo

Program:

Gates Open 1 p.m.

Mochi Pounding Demos 1:15 to 4:30 p.m.

Bonsai Exhibit 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Lei Making 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Calligraphy Demos 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Coconut Weaving 1:15 to 2:15 p.m.
Fish and Tapa Printing 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Cultural Culinary Demos 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Program & Pilgrimage: Grandmaster Riley Lee, Taiko Kaua‘i