The service includes offering sweet tea to the infant statue of the Buddha enshrined in a flower shrine called hanamido.

LAHAINA – Shakyamuni Buddha’s birth, known as Hanamatsuri or Flower Festival, will be celebrated by the West Maui Buddhist community on Sunday, April 7, at 9:30 a.m. at Lahaina Hongwanji Mission at 551 Wainee St.

According to Mahayana Buddhist tradition, the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, was born on April 8 more than 2,500 years ago in Lumbini Flower Garden in present day Nepal.

His teachings are a guide to realizing a universal spirit of wisdom and compassion as a foundation for humanity.

The celebration will consist of a service that includes offering sweet tea to the infant statue of the Buddha enshrined in a flower shrine called hanamido, offerings of incense and flowers, and a birthday cake ceremony.

Rev. Ai Hironaka of Lahaina Hongwanji Mission will be the featured speaker. Fellowship activities will follow the service.

The observance is co-sponsored by Lahaina Hongwanji Mission, Lahaina Shingon Mission and Lahaina Jodo Mission.

All are welcome to join this celebration. For more information, call 661-0640.