On September 21, 2020, the 4th ringing ceremony of Peace Bell was held in the Osaka EXPO Memorial Park under the clear sky.
Although there was concern about coronavirus infection, this ceremony was carried out with the understanding of Osaka Prefecture government on the International Day of Peace.
Initially we wanted to make this ceremony small because of coronavirus, but ended up with about 30 attendees, more people than we initially anticipated.
In addition, there was a surpre; encounter with Hashigo Nakamura, a Narikomaya kabuki actor,who performed a special kabuki play “Heiwaninareya Inoruwakonokane.” ( “Aspire to Peace with this Bell.”)
Finally he shouted “Do not grudge against others, but do love,” which sounded as if Chiyoji Nakagawa was shouting, and I felt tears flew.
He also joined the ringing ceremony held simultaneously throughout Japan,and the Bell in Osaka EXPO Park, a sister bell of the UN Peace Bell, was rung towards the world.
We did all measures to fight against coronavirus; checking body tempreture, disinfect hands, installing smart phone application COCOA, registering to the corona tracking system of Osaka prefecture, and interview.
These cumbersom measures were kindly accepted by attendees, and the solemn and touching bell ringing ceremony was successfuly concluded.
I cordially thank you all concerned parties.
