Vesak: rebrandedAs most of you have probably concluded we are NOT having a Vesak celebration on the 31st May. Unfortunately the government radically changed the assembly rules for level 2 so it is not feasible to think in terms of meeting together until we get to level 1. So… the current plan is to look toward a celebration event to mark the beginning of the monastic rains retreat. This is known by many as ‘Khao Pansa.’ The full moon of Asalha is on the 5th of July, a Sunday. So, *hopefully* we can schedule a gathering on this day.
Masks, Fire & FreedomThe period of lockdown has been a significant one in the planet’s history. We all assume that it will end – never to return – and that we will be free of those limitations. Some of you may remember in the ’60s and ’70s a powerful symbol of (female) liberation was the burning of the bra. We suggest that on the 5th of July you join us for our “Entering Vassa” celebration, that you bring your old masks and that we have a symbolic mask burning. American Independence day is on the 4th. Vesakha Puja celebrates the liberation of the Buddha. Let’s celebrate!
Monastery Open-nessWe are limited to no more than ten people meeting in a group and are welcoming you to join us for the anumodana when you bring dana. You are also welcome to join us for morning and evening pujas; there were not so many coming before so numbers won’t be a problem. We have kept the hall, the stupa and forest tracks open to all throughout and many have expressed their appreciation of being able to come and meditate and make offerings. The outside standing Buddha is very convenient in this way. We are starting to accept guest applications and generally trying to be as open as we can. Thank you so much for all your interest and active support during the time of lockdown. We so look forward to being able to meet with you all directly. Anumodana.
Luang Por SumdehoDuring his lockdown Ajahn Sumdeho recorded some dhamma talks. You may wish to view those. Praise And Blame, Wisdom And Foolishness — Feeling Rebellious and Preparing For Death — Not Thinking About Thinking— Welcoming Fear, Grief & Anger, And Not Taking Them Personally
Annual General MeetingThis is usually held around late June. Our being able to meet is still not certain and this is just to be clear about intention; we are required by our constitution to have a yearly meeting of our members and to elect a new committee. More on this closer to the time
MembershipWTBA 2019/20 membership ended on March 31st. With lockdown conditions this notice is a bit after the event but – it is never too late. Membership is a visible sign of your continuing support of the monastery. It also allows you to vote at the annual general meeting – date to be advised. You can download the membership form and send it to the ‘Secretary, 17 Rakau Grove, Lower Hutt 5019’ or, email to: office@bodhinyanarama.net.nz
Chatty BitsWith so few activities there is not a lot of news regarding the resident or wider community. Ajahn’s kuti renovation continues well with a bit of landscaping being done. Bruce can now go shopping for materials so his building work is well on track. Ajahn Sambodhi has been making some lovely bamboo bowl stands. Ajahn Naen and venerable Kusalacitto have finished their self-retreat and now Ajahn Kusalo and anagarika Jet are on retreat. Lindsay continues to manage the kitchen with great aplomb but will be happy when Aunty Suan gets back (when???). Beat has been doing many things in many places. He is an electrician so can do the wiring in Ajahn’s kuti! Pujas have continued unbroken and the resident community have appreciated these times. Our collective commitment to meditation and the monastic life remains as strong as ever. We are so lucky to have such a wonderful group in our little bubble. We sincerely hope that you have used the time well and benefited from the relative quiet. And things change. We hope for the best and try to be at peace with it all.