Japanese Buddhist Fire Ceremony

10/24/10: A group of Tendai Buddhist monks from Japan visited the Museum of Fine Arts to perform a dramatic, traditional outdoor "goma", or fire ceremony. Audience members were invited to participate by writing prayers for sanctification on six-inch strips of wood. As the monks did their sacred chants, a light drizzle started and audience members mobilized MFA umbrellas to protect the monks from the rain.

A unique experience, followed by a visit to the MFA's incredible collection of Asian art and Buddhist images.