Marking that which we hold dear
Buddhist Festivals
We celebrate four principal Buddhist festivals through the year, dedicated to the Buddha, the Dharma (the Buddha’s teaching), the Sangha (the spiritual community) and Parinirvana (the death of the Buddha).
Traditionally Buddhists would gather together for teachings, to meditate and to chant on full moon days. We still do this today, creating a strong sense of collective practice.
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Parinirvana Day: in February, commemorating the Buddha’s final passing away, this offers an opportunity for us to consider death and impermanence in our own lives.
Buddha Day: in May, sometimes known as Wesak. Our most important festival, when we celebrate the Buddha gaining Enlightenment.
Dharma Day: in July. It’s one thing to become awakened oneself, but quite another to communicate to others how to achieve this. The Buddha did it!
Sangha Day: in November, celebrating the spiritual community, all those who practice the Dharma
Next: Padmasambhava Day Festival
- On Sunday 19th September 2.00–9.30pm
- More info
- Just turn up — no booking required
- Future festival dates
Full Moon Pujas
On the months when we have no festival day, we gather for puja (ritual).
If you have completed an introductory Buddhism course you are very welcome to attend and just observe or join in.
Next: Full Moon Puja to Prajnaparamita
- On Tuesday 24th August 5.45–6.45pm
- More info
- Just turn up, no booking required
- Future puja dates
Life Rituals
We conduct the following Buddhist rituals and ceremonies:
- Blessings following marriages and civil partnership ceremonies
- Funeral or crematorium service
- Baby-naming ceremonies
To discuss what is involved and to find out the costs, please contact Andrew on andrew@manchesterbuddhistcentre.org.uk or 0161 834 9232
Year-long Ritual
Two years ago we led a year long ritual where we did rituals to connect the Five Dhyani Buddhas with the seasons of the year. We went out at the traditional time of day and compass direction.
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