West London Buddhist Centre

Turning towards death means living this life now – with kindness, integrity, joy and a deepening sense of gratitude for this precious human birth. Turning towards life means acknowledging the death of those dear to us – and rejoicing in them and our connection to them.

Join us for one of the most important Buddhist festivals of the year
when we mark the Buddha’s death
– a transition that comes to us all and all that is dear to us.

We will be reflecting on the story of the Buddha’s own death (known as his parinirvana), how he approached it and how these are relevant for how we live our lives. We will also take the time to remember those who have died. You are invited to send us the names of any being you know who has died in the past year, together with a photo, if you’d like, and we will remember them together as a Sangha in a meditative context, reading out their names. If you’re coming in-person, feel free to bring a photo (A4 or smaller) for placing on the shrine. And bring some food for the tea break!

Note: entrance only by 2pm or 4.15-4.30pm

Programme
1.30pm doors open
2.00pm welcome and metta bhavana meditation
2.30pm a short retelling of the parinirvana of the Buddha and reflections on death Maitripushpa
3.15pm reflective practice of nine contemplations on death by Atisha led by Maitripushpa
4.00/15ish 30-minute tea break
4.30/45ish Sevenfold puja dedicated to those whose names have been offered
led by Amalavajra
6.00pm close

Note: please do not wear any coconut-based products as one of our sangha is highly allergic to them

By donation (recommended £15-£50).