Saga Dawa Month - Cleaning the Shakyamuni Altar

It is always meritorious to keep a temple clean. During the holy month of Saga Dawa—the most sacred time in the Tibetan calendar, marking the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana—the activity is amplified. We invite you to join us to care for the heart of the Maryland Prayer Room: the Shakyamuni Altar.
The Project:
Our main goal is a thorough, mindful cleaning of the altar and its surroundings. If time allows, we will "oil out" the wood—applying a deep-conditioning treatment to feed the timber and restore the deep, resonant luster it is known for.
What to Know:
🧽 No experience needed: This is a physical expression of service open to everyone.
👕 Dress for work: Oiling can be messy; wear clothes you don’t mind getting a stray drop of oil on.
🕐 Flexible timing: Join us for the full afternoon or just an hour. Every hand helps ensure the temple is radiant for the start of the holy month.
If you’ve never visited the Maryland temple, this is a perfect day to come by, see the Migyur Dorje Stupa, and explore the Peace Park. We’d love to have you.