Loram Torrano was crowned the Holy Ghost queen. (Courtesy photo)
By Marie Ho
Special to the Herald
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Honokaa, Hawaii island, held its beloved annual Holy Ghost Feast fundraiser on June 8, Pentecost Sunday.
The day began with a vibrant procession across the parish property toward the church. Led by Blessed Sacrament Father Victor “Junvic” Diolata, the procession included the Holy Ghost queen and princess, live music, colorful arches, the Holy Ghost dove, the traditional Holy Ghost frame and a flower-bedecked raised platform carrying a statue of the Blessed Mother.
Several participants wore traditional Portuguese attire and walked alongside the “charola,” a treasured part of the celebration.
(A charola is a bell-shaped offering of gratitude comprising various food items bound with string or twine.)
After the procession arrived at the church, a special Mass was held featuring traditional Portuguese hymns.
Outside, the festivities began with the queen releasing a dove, a symbolic and joyful start to the day.
Attendees enjoyed live music, baked goods, a dunking booth, games for keiki, plants and produce for sale, malasadas, a local food concession booth, thirst quenchers, shave ice and the ever-popular Filipino food booth. Visitors also browsed the thrift and religious articles stores and picked up centennial celebration merchandise.
The highlight of the day was the lively auction, which was filled with cheers, laughter and spirited bidding on handcrafted items, gift certificates and generous donations.
At the center of it all stood the charola, drawing eager bids from supporters.
True to tradition, the charola was purchased and donated back to the church several times before finally being sold. With so many children attending with their families, the joyful day helped ensure this rich cultural tradition will continue for generations to come.