One of the most important events in the Buddhist Calendar celebrated all over the world is Vesak. Buddhists all over the world commemorate three events on Vesak day which fall usually on the full moon day in the month of May each year.
For Buddhist all over the world it is a Thrice Blessed Day – The Birth, Enlightenment and the Passing Away of Gautama Buddha – all on the same day.
As a result of this, Vesak is celebrated in many different ways all over the world. But in essence many practices have become universal. It is most important to remember that this sacred day is purely and simply a religious festival and not a festive occasion for feasting. On this day all Buddhists are expected to reaffirm their faith in the Buddha Dhamma and to lead a noble religious life. It is a day for meditation and for radiating loving kindness. Thousands of candles are being lit, flowers are given and meditations are held for world peace.
MJF Kids of all ethnicity and religions – a bunch of fun loving Kids – Sinhalese and Tamils - Christians, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists – all got together to celebrate Vesak with special emphasis on making Vesak Lanterns – illuminating the night with rays of lights and exposing the Birth, Enlightenment and the Passing Away of Gautama Buddha.
The 6th annual Vesak Lantern competition for MJF Kids was held at the MJF Centre in Moratuwa on Vesak day – 5th May, with the participation of nearly 120 Kids representing the MJF kids of Peliyagoda/Maligawatte, Pallansena and Moratuwa. This year’s competition brought about some impressive creations by the Kids using waste and recyclable raw materials.
The Judges – all external from MJF, had a tough time in selecting the best creations and finally the Edithara group from Peliyagoda emerged the champs.
All the kids had a wonderful day out at Moratuwa amidst making their lanterns. The MJFCF Team was at hand to make all the necessary arrangements to make it a memorable day for everyone.
