Saka Dawa Celebration with the Buddha's Life Stories

# Celebrate Saka Dawa: A Special Gathering on June 11, 2025

## Honoring the Holiest Month in Tibetan Buddhism

June 11, 2025, 12:00–2:00 PM PDT

Zoom Link – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88538519556

Open to All

Saka Dawa is the holiest month in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar. It commemorates significant events in the life of the Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana. This year, the full moon falls on June 11, marking a particularly powerful day for accumulating merit. It’s a time for deepening devotion and engaging in virtuous activities.

We believe in the power of shared stories and voices. Rather than inviting a guest speaker, we will honor this sacred occasion through our own voices. During the event, several students will each share a Jataka tale. These stories, which come from the Buddha’s past lives, reflect timeless qualities. They embody compassion, wisdom, and selfless action.

## Connecting With Our Fore-Teacher's Footsteps

This special gathering offers us a unique opportunity. It allows us to connect with the footsteps of our fore-teacher and express our compassionate understanding of bodhicitta. Each Jataka tale serves as a reminder of the virtuous qualities we aspire to embody in our daily lives.

As we come together, let's take time to recall the life stories of the Buddha. These narratives inspire us to renew our aspirations. We can reflect on how we can embody awakened activity in the world around us.

### The Importance of Community in Our Practice

Community plays a vital role in spiritual practice. In Tibetan Buddhism, it's essential to cultivate a sense of belonging. We grow together through shared experiences and practices. This gathering allows us to connect with one another and reinforce our sense of community.

Participating in events like these helps strengthen our bonds. When we share Jataka tales, we also share a piece of our hearts. Each story is an invitation to embrace compassion and understanding. Together, we create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive spiritually.

### Engaging in Virtuous Activity

As we celebrate Saka Dawa, let’s remember the importance of virtuous actions. Engaging in good deeds is a fundamental part of our practice. During the gathering, participants will be encouraged to reflect on their experiences, insights, and how we can contribute positively to our communities.

Acts of kindness, whether large or small, accumulate merit. This merit helps us develop compassion and wisdom. Examples of virtuous activities include volunteering, offering support to friends, or simply taking mindful actions in daily life.

### A Call to Action

We warmly invite you to join us in this meaningful celebration. If you are not yet a member, consider joining us here. Your participation enriches our gathering and enhances our collective energy.

Let us come together with open hearts and minds. Together, we can honor the Buddha’s life while renewing our commitment to leading a life filled with compassion and understanding.

We look forward to celebrating Saka Dawa together. Your voice and presence matter. Let’s make this gathering a memorable occasion for all.