Following Tuesday evening's meditation session, the ceremony begins with a noisy invitation to the Hungry Ghosts to accept our offerings provided by Sangha members and join us in remembering those who have died during the year as well as Ancestors we want to include in this ceremony.
To prepare for the Ceremony, Sangha members write names of departed Ancestors, family, friends, and pets on name cards that are then placed on the altar during the ceremony. There are special chants that will be posted on line and provided in the Zendo.
Satisfying the Hungry Ghosts is everyone's responsibility as the hungry ghosts represent the craving and grasping within ourselves. A symbolic gesture is to bring food, flowers, and light for the Hungry Ghosts. After the ceremony, the Sangha partakes of the offering leftovers.