VassaThe full moon of Asalha is on Saturday 24th and it marks the beginning of the monastery’s three month winter retreat. We have a very solid group of people committed to being here for this time and to making the extra efforts with practice and study that this time traditonally encourages. The first week will be unscheduled, the second will be a period of group practice. There will be periods of individual retreat so the monastic lineup will shrink and grow over time and there will also be periods of group practice. Our regular program – Sunday evening, meditation workshop, city meditation, etc. will continue. Check the calendar for details. You are most welcome to come and take part in the general energy of quiet and stillness that such a long retreat creates.
AGMThe annual general meeting for Bodhinyanarama was held on the 11th. Attendance was a bit lean but sufficient. The various reports were given by Sangha, Committee and Treasurer and the overall picture outlined by all was very positive. We are in great shape – on all levels. The committee was reelected unopposed and it is heartening that the same group is keen to continue their respective roles. photo The minutes, including reports, will be posted on the website shortly. TBA
Weekend RetreatThis went very well, despite the confusion around covid-required re-scheduling. The increasing interest in retreats is under consideration and there is a good chance that we will do another after vassa. In the mean time… You can meditate any place, any time. Just stop – register awareness in the present moment; with the breath – or whatever keys you in to the only reality we have… NOW.
Anagarika OrdinationMcBain took anagarika precepts on Wednesday. Such a commitment to the homeless life is truly commendable and a worthy use of a human life. His time with us so far has been very comfortable and we hope that his ongoing time with sangha proves to be fruitful. photos
Sangha VisitsAs is our traditional custom we visited both Ajahn Natawat and Bhante Jinalankara to pay our respects and to wish them a pleasant and fruitful vassa. It is nice that we have such good sangha ‘neighbours’ and are able to maintain such harmonious relationships.
Cloister CanopyThe new canopy arrived a few weeks ago and we put it up more or less straight away to see how well it fits and generally get the feel of it. It went up really well and sits very snugly on the parapet. It is generally easier to work with than the old one. There were a couple of weathering details that were not quite right so it was sent back and is undergoing minor modifications. We try to keep the vassa work-free but will put it up when it returns; perhaps even leave it up until kathina to test it through various weathers. All in all – a timely move.
Update Mail ListThe list is growing by the month. Statistics show that only 40 to 50% of updates sent are opened. I am told that this is actually quite high for bulk mailing. Also the free mail service that we use has an upper limit and we are approaching that. The combination of these two factors will see a link appearing in future updates asking you to confirm your continuing wish to receive these.