Special Observances

by Rev. Jo-Ren MacDonald

3dharmawhl

Namo Amida Butsu
Namo Amida Butsu
Namo Amida Butsu

JANUARY

New Year’s Day Service celebrates the first day of each year. The focus is deep gratitude for the Infinite Wisdom and Compassion that embraces us constantly.

Ho-On-Ko Service is an observance of the death of our founder, Shinran Shonin.

FEBRUARY

Nehan-ye or Nirvana Day Service is held to observe the passing away of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, more than 2,500 years ago.

 MARCH

Spring O-Higan Service is a primarily Japanese observance of the Equinox. It is a national holiday in Japan and is a time to pay respect to our ancestors and study the Dharma.

 APRIL

Hanamatsuri Service literally means Flower Festival or Buddha Day and is commemorated as the birth of the Buddha. A festive service is held.

MAY

Gotan-E Service is the celebration of the birth of Shinran Shonin.

Special ObservancesJUNE

unscheduled

JULY

O-Bon Service itself is not celebratory but reflective of all those who have passed away and a time for us to remember the hardships and sacrifices made on our behalf by our own relatives.

O-Bon Odori Festival is a time of celebration of our loved ones who have passed away and is a time of traditional Japanese dancing and taiko drumming. All are welcome to join and learn. Food and fun are part of this experience.

AUGUST

unscheduled

SEPTEMBER

BCA Founding Day Service is designated September 1st to commemorate the founding of the present-day Buddhist Churches of America.

Fall O-Higan Service is observed at autumn equinox time.

OCTOBER

unscheduled

NOVEMBER

unscheduled

DECEMBER

Bodhi Day Service celebrates the Enlightenment of the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni.

We hope you have an opportunity to enjoy these special observances and experience the Buddha Dharma with us at “A Family Place”!