“Today, Vesak Day (also called Buddha Jayanti, or Buddha Purnima) is celebrated by people of the Buddhist faith in Alberta and around the world, commemorating the birth, enlightenment and death of Lord Buddha. Its origins date back more than 2,600 years.
“Vesak Day provides an opportunity for followers to reflect on Buddha’s teachings of compassion, wisdom and peace, and to strive to cultivate those qualities in themselves. For those who celebrate, it is a time of prayer and meditation, as well as a time to perform acts of charity and kindness.
“Happy Vesak Day to all who celebrate this special day. May you stay on the path of eternal knowledge, happiness and peace.”