Maitreya Project: Heart Shrine Relic Tour Comes to VITEC-Maui Community College
Thursday, May 29th, 2008
Over 3,000 Mauians had the rare opportunity to experience The Heart Shrine Relic Tour, February 22nd-24th, 2008. Co-hosted by The Maui Dharma Center and VITEC-Maui Community College, this international exhibit is an extraordinary collection of sacred Buddhist Relics. Sponsored by the Maitreya Project, the exhibit is touring the world upon the the recommendation of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The tour is dedicated to inspiring peace and loving-kindness across all faiths and beliefs.
This ancient collection includes sacred Relics of the historical Shakyamuni Buddha, his Holy Disciples, and other important Buddhist Masters. When the bodies of spiritual masters are cremated, beautiful pearl-like crystals are found amongst their ashes. In Tibetan Buddhism, these Relics are called Ringsel. The Ringsel are special because they hold the essence of the qualities of the spiritual master. These enlightened Masters deliberately chose to leave the Ringsel behind to provide future generations the opportunity to make a personal connection with them. The Ringsel are destined to be permanently enshrined within the heart of a 500 ft. statue of the Maitreya Buddha being built in India. It is due for completion in 2010.
The Opening Ceremony on Friday night was attended by hundreds of people, and was standing room only. The Shrine Room and Altar were gorgeously decorated. Prayers and blessings for world peace were offered by an interfaith group of Lamas, Reverends (Buddhist & Christian), and a Hawaiian Kumu. Tara Dhatu performed a beautiful dance of “The Eight Precious Offerings”.
On Sunday, the Maui community showed up in full force! Visitors patiently waited up to 2 hours for their chance to view the precious Relics. Due to a rainy day power failure, guests were treated to the ambience of the Shrine Room lit only by candlelight for a couple of hours. The Heart Shrine Relic Tour was far more than an exhibit. It was a deep and profound experience that I will always remember. It was an honor to serve as the Event Publicist, and as the Hospitality Room Coordinator. This special Maui event benefited many in our community, and touched many hearts. Mauians expressed their appreciation through generous donations given to the Maitreya Project. For more information on this special project please visit the Maitreya Project.