Seijin-shiki Ceremony at Gardena Buddhist Church

This year’s Seijin Shiki (coming-of-age ceremony) participants. (Photo by Gary Miyatake)

GARDENA — The Gardena Buddhist Church, 1517 166th St. in Gardena, will hold its annual Seijin-shiki on Sunday, Jan. 14, from 9:30 a.m.

This coming-of-age ceremony is one that has been observed in Japan from olden times. It is when a person verifies at the shrine or temple that he or she has become a full contributor to society.

The church would like to invite anyone who is in their 20s to take part in this ceremony; after the ceremony the participants will have the opportunity to take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

There is a registration fee. Anyone interested is asked to call (310) 327-9400 as soon as possible. Early registration deadline is Dec. 10; final deadline is Jan. 7.