Vesak 2016

THE ORGANISING COMMITTEE FOR THE AUSTRALIAN OBSERVANCE OF THE UNITED NATIONS DAY OF VESAK 2016 (B.E 2559) Requests the pleasure of the company of all our honoured guests to attend The Australian Observance of the United Nations Day of Vesak 2016 (B.E 2559)  at Sydney Town Hall on Sunday, 15 May 2016 1.30-5.00pm
The program for the day is varied and will offer an opportunity for  everyone to celebrate the life of Buddha as well as make heartfelt  prayers for peace.

The program highlights includes:

• Inspirational insights on the theme, Prayer for Peace, from representatives of all three Buddhist schools – Hinayana, Mahayana  and Vajrayana
• Guided meditation
• Common Buddhist Chanting
• Entertainment from a variety of Buddhist performers celebrating Buddha’s life through song and dance
• Exhibition of Buddhist relics and artwork
• Candle lighting

BACKGROUND

In 1999, following a joint proposal of the representatives from 34  countries, the United Nations (UN) recognised Vesak (Vesakha Bucha) as an international day, and recommended appropriate arrangements for the international observance of Vesak in May to commemorate  the birth, enlightenment and passing (Nirvana) of the Buddha.

In Australia, Buddhism is regarded as the fastest growing and second largest religion after Christianity with significant contributions to the  peace, harmony, social cohesion and well-being of the Australian people.

In compliance with the UN resolution for the UN Day of Vesak, and in accordance with the aspirations of the Buddhist community in Australia, the Organising Committee for the Australian Observance of the UN Day of Vesak is tasked to celebrate this holy and auspicious event.

The celebration will welcome honourable Sangha members and  Buddhist followers from all Buddhist traditions as well as the  interested people in Australia. This annual festival will showcase united Buddhist communities coming together in commemoration of Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and passing. This event also brings to the wider Australian public an awareness of Buddha’s profound and meaningful teachings in hope of bringing peace and happiness into people’s daily life.

The theme of this year’s celebration is Prayer for Peace. At a time in our world when there is so much turmoil and fear, this event offers an opportunity to come together and – in the spirit of Buddha’s  compassionate intention – pray for the happiness, safety and peace
of all beings.