Macha Bucha Day...Candle light service... Ayuthaya

The crowd gathered in anticipation, each person, both young and old, holding their 3 sacred objects... a lotus bud, 3 lit sticks of incense, and a candle. The incense and candles were lit before the service began, and we had to maintain all the objects throughout the 30 minute service/chanting and as we all walked 3 times in unison around the temple. It was tricky business... between dodging getting burned by dripping hot wax and falling incense ash and trying not to ignite the clothing/hair of all the people packed in around you, it was quite a challenge!! The similarities between Catholic and Episcopal services I have attended and this Buddhist service were many! Incense, candles, chanting in unison, lessons/scripture readings and participation in mass ritual. I found the similarities more striking then the differences!! Though I could not understand a word that was said it was a lovely experience.