Vesak, often referred to as Buddha Day, occurs on the first full moon of May. This holiday celebrates the life (the birth, awakening and death) of the historical Buddha (Shakyamuni Buddha). Please join us on Thursday May 24, 6 PM to celebrate this important event.

The evening will begin at 6 PM with a potluck dinner. Bring a vegetarian dish or treat to share. Water and tea will be provided. Please join us even if you cannot bring food as there is always enough to share. Following the meal there will be a short sitting period followed by a discussion of the Buddha’s awakening.

The evening also offers the opportunity for individuals to take refuge and precepts. Taking refuge and precepts is a public ceremony that allows one to express their willingness and intent to work with the teachings and practices of the Buddha. Taking refuge means seeking comfort and inspiration in the “Three Jewels” of the Buddha (the physical embodiment and example of the teachings), the Dharma (the teachings on awakening and liberation), and the Sangha (the community of practitioners). The Five Precepts are areas of one’s life, behavior, and habits that have the potential to generate suffering or awakening with which one commits to work. These include working on refraining from killing and supporting life, respecting the property of others and refraining from stealing, being truthful and refraining from lying, regarding all beings with respect and dignity and refraining from objectifying others (especially through sensual misconduct), and working to maintain a clear mind and refrain from harming ourselves and others with intoxicants. Those who take precepts will receive a commemorative certificate. If you have questions about taking refuge and precepts, please contact Rev. Ryongwan Karuna (nirvanasamurai@aol.com) or talk with him at an upcoming weekly sitting. Those who have taken the precepts before but who would like to do so again please let him know so that he can prepare certificates.

A common Vesak practice is to offer flowers, which are placed near the statue of the Buddha. Please feel free to bring flowers if you choose.

We look forward to celebrating with you!