Taihaku Roshi's 5-year Memorial Ceremony

This past Sunday, May 24th, 2026 was the 5th year anniversary of the passing of our beloved founding abbot, Taihaku Nishiren Diaosho.  

We honored her this year with a full day combination of meditation retreat (1/2 day Zazenkai), ceremony of chanting and offering incense, a procession up to the cemetery with flower offerings, followed by an abundant potluck.  

The cool rainy day was black-fly-free(!) and was made brighter and warmer by our coming together with deep reverence and affection.

Buddha's Birthday - 2026

 

On an unusually chilly May Sunday (were there a few snowflakes?), we joined together for a warm-hearted celebration of the Buddha's Birth.

An enthusiastic group gathered to celebrate Buddha's Birthday at Shao Shan Temple and nature joined in with the calling of the baby ravens in their nearby nest. 

Participants were invited to join in a noble procession carrying parasols, walking sticks decorated with colored streamers, bubble wands and little bells. The procession was accompanied by bells, drums, and conch. 

There was the telling of the story of Buddha's birth.

Everyone had the opportunity to ladle pure water over a statue of the baby Buddha accompanied by Shakuhachi flute music. 

The ceremony was followed by a delicious abundant potluck, and gifts from Shao Shan for people's home altars!