On May 19, about 10 of us from the MDC visited our sister sangha at Carmel Sambosa for a wonderful celebration of the Buddha Shakyamuni’s birthday. We were treated to settling with the ringing of the ceremonial bell, prayers and participating in the procession of bathing the little Buddha. After this, we were treated to a variety of performances from very accomplished musicians, and then feted with a huge spread of excellent food. We also had an opportunity to see their recently completed meditation yurt and to celebrate the start of the Abbot’s 1,000-day retreat tomorrow.

We extend deep bows of gratitude to the Abbot Dae Man Sunim, to our ever gracious hostess Sebi Lee and to all of their sangha who made this a very special and enjoyable day.