Vassa RetreatA combination of people’s continuing concerns with covid and the resident community’s ‘pulling back’ sees this year’s vassa as being very quiet. We are a week off half way now and several of the sangha have had, or are having their personal self-retreat. This is such a special time for us and we very much appreciate your support in making it possible. Anumodana.
There hasn’t been that much happening so there is not that much news; more a review of events passed.
AGMThis was back on July 3rd and it was a very quiet affair. Bottom line – the committee was reelected unopposed, with the addition of Jo Fergusson as secretary (Kim is still on the committee but his work is too busy to carry the sec. role).
The WTBA constitution was briefly discussed and the election of committee is very likely an item that needs considerable review. We are discussing the different formats used in other branch monasteries and will share any ongoing conclusions.
Bhikkhu OrdinationAlso back in July, the 10th, Samanera Anenjo became Bhikkhu Anenjo. The ceremony itself was very well attended, well ‘orchestrated’ and joyful. It was also very useful for venerable Anenjo to spend some time in a different monastery to help him get a better, broader perspective on monastic life. He continues to be very happy here at Bodhinyanarama.
Ajahn KhantikoAs predicted he arrived the day before vassa and his easy character has seen him fit into our community without any problem. He is on his self-retreat at the moment so further visa investigation will wait until he finishes that. At the moment it looks like he will have to return to Australia and apply for his visa from there. Ajahn Dhammasiha, in Brisbane, has been particularly generous in hosting ven. Khantiko, both on his way here and allowing his possible return to get his NZ visa. He also currently has ven. Passada staying there – also waiting for his NZ visa. Monastic musical chairs? Just the way it is right now.
Day of MindfulnessThe third Saturday of every month; 9am to 4pm. The next will be this Saturday, 20th. Come for all or part of this – join for the meal at 10:30. A really good opportunity to give extended time to your meditation. There will be instruction and discussion. Let by Ajahn Kusalacitto.
Cloister Tent – recycleAnd now we have a lovely new white one. Super. But… we have yet to find a home for the old one. It is surely a bit ‘tired’ but there is life left still. Camping, Scouts, parties, etc.? It is big, about 12m square. Free to a good home.
More Recycle; BYOThe world is changing – and how can we positively participate in the process? We have asked you not to bring bottled water… and you listened. Thank you. Now we are suggesting another idea to help cut down on waste – both physical resources and time.
BYO = bring your own.
Most of our gatherings are around the daily meal offering. Most people bring their own dish (of food) – how about BYO dish to eat from? and BYO utensils, and BYO cup – and… most important BYO you 🙂
As well as the physical ‘stuff’ we save on cleaning up, washing up, drying up.
And there is the covid-contact side of things; reducing contagion.
Let’s give it a try – see how it goes.
Ajahn TiradhammoAs many of you may know Vimutti monastery in Auckland is in a transition phase. As a way of supporting this Ajahn Tiradhammo will be coming to New Zealand at the end of October for about 4 weeks. This is still quite a while off but we thought to let you know. He will be based in Auckland but we hope there is time enough during his visit to come south to Bodhinyanarama. More on this later.