The celebration of Vesak was an occasion that appeared to also celebrate unity in diversity at International Buddhist College. The celebration began with showing the works and wonders in documentary or films of Master Yogi Milarepa (Vajrayana), Master Cheng Yen (Mahayana bhikshuni) of Tzuchi Organisation, and Maechee Sansanee Sthirasuta (Theravada nun) during the day. The evening celebration began with paying homage to the Triple Gem. It was followed by multitraditional chanting, starting with Pali chanting, then Chinese Mahayana and Korean Mahayana chanting, and completed with Singhalese Buddhist hymns in the main shrine hall. The peak event of bathing Buddha then began with continuous chanting of ‘Our root teacher, Shakyamuni Buddha’. With the bathing event completed, the celebration adjourned outdoor at the rock garden by the IBC lake. Under the bright moonlight, staff and students paid homage to the Triple Gem, followed by 30 minutes of meditation. Merits were then transferred. All then asked for forgiveness from the most senior IBC Sangha member before sending off the huge lanterns up the sky with the accompaniment of short rocket bursts. It had been a wonderful celebration.

sharing a few thoughts after preparing the ground for wesak celebration this evening - 2005

refuge in Buddha - 2005

seated in preparation for bathing the Buddha and circumambulation - 2005

back in 2005 - under the beautiful night sky; peace & joy