We experienced a sort of reverse pilgrimage when the Maitreya Project's Relics Tour visited Humboldt County last weekend. An ecumenical opening ceremony enjoined speakers from various traditions to share the spirit of loving kindness that is promoted by Maitreya Buddhism, and view relics of 40 masters from several Buddhist traditions.
The Maitreya Project seeks to erect a statue of Maitreya Buddha, the Buddha of Loving Kindness who is yet to come, on the site of Gautama Buddha's death. These relics will be installed in the statue when it is complete.
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| Altar to Matireya Buddha |
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| Tour organizers reverently and meticulously arrange the relics in cases. |
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| Arcata mayor Michael Winkler welcomes the Relics Tour and attendees after the relics were arranged. Representa from a variety traditions including Hindu, Sufi, Christian, Jewish, Native American and Buddhist offered thoughts, prayers, songs and a Balinese dance. |
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| A small statue representing the just-born Buddha is washed before viewing the relics |
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| Holy water in the bowl beneath the statue is ladled over the statue in a ritual bath commemorating the birth of the Buddha. Buddha's birthday, Bushoe, is traditionally celebrated in April. |
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| Maitreya Buddha, altar detail |
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| Lights were dimmed as the general audience viewed the relics |
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| Altar detail |
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| A case containing some of the relics |
Read more about the Maitreya Project and the relics tour at http://www.maitreyaproject.org.
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