Ullambana Ceremony: Remembering Our Ancestors, Caring for All Beings

A Buddhist ceremony of remembrance, chanting, lanterns, meditation, offerings, and shared compassion for all beings.
About this Event

Join us for Ullambana Ceremony: Remembering Our Ancestors, Caring for All Beings, a Buddhist gathering devoted to honoring our ancestors and remembering those who came before us.

Rooted in the Buddhist Ullambana tradition, this ceremony offers a sacred space to express gratitude for the lives, sacrifices, wisdom, and love we have received from our parents, grandparents, family members, teachers, and spiritual ancestors. Through chanting, offerings, meditation, shared remembrance, and the dedication of merit, we will remember departed loved ones and renew our responsibility to carry their goodness forward. We will also extend our prayers and compassion to forgotten ancestors, those who died alone or without family, and all beings who are suffering.

CEREMONY PROGRAM

• Traditional alms offering and offering to the Buddha

• Buddhist Chanting

• Floating Lanterns

• Meditation

• Shared remembrance

• Dedication of merit

• 15-minute classical violin performance (selections to be announced)

• Chinese tea, light refreshments, and calligraphy

REMEMBRANCE AND BLESSING

You are welcome to bring a photo or small keepsake of a departed loved one for a blessing by the monastic community. During the shared remembrance, participants may also show the items they have brought.

IMPORTANT VENUE INFORMATION

• Check-in begins at 6:15 PM.

• There is no air conditioning or fans. Please plan accordingly.

• Indoor temperatures may be high. Please dress lightly and stay hydrated.

• A valid photo ID is required for entry.

People of all religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds are warmly welcome to participate or observe in silence.