Vesak
What is Vesak?
Vesak is the most important holy day of the Buddhist calendar, commemorating the day of the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and passing away. While the name and date vary somewhat in Buddhist countries according to national customs, it is generally observed on the full moon day in May. In 1999, Vesak received official recognition from the United Nations as a major world religious holiday.
How many Buddhists are there in the United States?
According to a study by the Pew Research Center, Religious Composition by Country, 2010-2050, there are more than 3.5 million Buddhists in the U.S., making it the third largest religion in the country. The majority of American Buddhists are Asian Americans, but there are Buddhists in the United States from every ethnic and cultural background. In addition to those who consider themselves Buddhist, Buddhism has significantly influenced the lives of countless other Americans culturally, intellectually, and spiritually.
(Source: Dharma College)
2021
5/27/2021 – Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday) Celebrated at the White House!
May 26, 2021: Reverend Marvin Harada, Buddhist Churches of America @ White House
First Vesak at the White House! Mayahana, Theravada and Vajrayana representatives were invited to the White House and celebrated Vesak! On behalf of the Mahayana Buddhism, Bishop Harada of Buddhist Churches of America attended this memorable ceremony. I think this is a very memorable event in the American Buddhist history! (Official White House Photo by Cameron Smith, this picture is from the announcement from the Dharma College.)
Link2021 Veska Candle Lighting at BCO
5/23/2021 – Dharma Family Service