When the Buddha became Enlightened, he escaped the round of birth, death and rebirth. By entirely transcending egotistical consciousness, he transcended death.
On this festival day, we celebrate the Parinirvana of the Buddha and explore the Buddhist vision of transcendental consciousness. The day will include meditation, reflection and ritual, as well as an opportunity to commemorate friends and family who have died in the last year. (If there is someone whose name you would like to be read out during the ritual, you can submit a form in advance here.)
Come to as much of the day as you can.
Event Schedule
8.30am | Sadhana Practice (Order Members only)
10.00am | Meditation and Remembrance Ceremony for those who have died in the past year
A meditation and ritual to remember our friends and relatives who have died in the past year. If there is someone whose name you would like to be read out during the ritual, you can either submit a form in advance here, or put the written name into a bowl on the day. You are also welcome to bring a framed photograph that will be put out on the shrine - please leave this in the collection box on reception in the week leading up to the ceremony.
Doors will reopen from 11–11.30am
1pm | Shared Lunch - please bring vegan food and snacks to share
3pm | Musical Offerings on Transience
4pm | Tea in the Mural Room
4.30pm | Dharma Talk: Near-Death Experiences
Sanghajit is a father of three and was ordained in 2016. Originally from the east coast of Australia, he trained as a nurse 25 years ago and brings over a decade of experience in palliative and end-of-life care to this talk.
In person and on Youtube (click here to watch>>)
5.45pm | Dinner in the Mandala Café (by donation)
Cooked and served by a volunteer team
7.15pm | Festival Day Puja with Mitra Ceremonies
When someone becomes a Mitra at the London Buddhist Centre, they are publicly declaring, in a ritual context, that they are a Buddhist. It's a very moving and significant event for both those becoming Mitras and also for those witnessing. Join in this uplifting ceremony led by LBC Chair Suryagupta.
Bring cards and gifts for new Mitras if you wish.
End by 9.30pm
