Hanamatsuri (花祭): April 6, 2025 at 10:15 am (Combined Service)
This service celebrates the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, who would become the Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha. ‘Hanamatsuri’ means ‘flower festival’, which is a reference to the flowering Lumbini Garden where the Buddha was born. At this time, we put a flower decorated shrine in front of the altar space which houses a small statue of the baby Buddha standing in a bowl of sweet tea. Instead of offering incense at this time, we use a ladle to pour the sweet tea over the baby Buddha. This represents the gentle rain that fell on the Buddha after his birth.
Join us to celebrate the birth of the founder of Buddhism, Sakyamuni Buddha, with one, combined family and adult service beginning at 10:15am, followed by a community potluck and performances by the Dharma School classes and other Sangha members.
Hatsumairi: April 20, 2025 at 9:30 am (Family Service)
Hatsumairi is a ceremony in which ones child is formally presented to the Buddha and to the Sangha for the first time. Contact the Temple Office if you wish your child to participate in the Hatsumairi service.
Eshinni & Kakushinni Service: April 27, 2025 at 10:15 am (Adult Service)
This service celebrates Shinran Shonin’s wife, Eshinni, and daughter, Kakushinni, who are the foundation of the Jodo Shinshu organization that perpetuates Shinran Shonin’s teaching.