Thailand
Ajahn Kusalo is back just over a week now. The first few days were in Bangkok with dentist, a bit of shopping for the monastery and a visit to a couple of statuary foundries [see below]. Then a few days at Ratanawan monastery visiting Ajahn Nynanadhammo and spending some time with Luang Por Sumedho. Then up to Ubon to stay at Wat Pah Nanachat and join with the ceremonies for Luang Por Chah’s memorial. A very inspiring and fruitful time. view photos
Kutis
Kutis
Work on finishing the two new lay kutis will hopefully see them complete in a few weeks. The current focus is on the walking meditation paths. Currently there is only one supply point for all kuti electrics (at the old triplex) and the plan is to set up a second, independent transformer to service the kutis in the lay area. There is a web page following the progress of the kutis
Dana Roster
Dana Roster
With Aunty Suan away for a few months the kitchen is now mainly under Anagarika Alex’s guidance. Between him and Linda we hope that coordination with those offering dana continues to flow well. Communication is the key. One of them will most likely contact you to check that all is on track – or you can phone or email. Thank you for your ongoing generosity and support.
Entrance Repair
Entrance Repair
The lower car park was sealed over 20 years ago. The actual entrance has long been a challenge for some cars. We are getting quotes to repair the entrance and reseal the car park. The gates have been raised to allow smoother access. The work will extend the life of the seal (another 20 years) and match the new work on the upper car park. There is also a small area (just beyond the large rock) that will be landscaped to provide three more parking spots.
Entrance Buddha
Entrance Buddha
There has been an ongoing thought to make a stronger ‘monastery statement’ at the entrance. Something that makes it clear that you are entering a Buddhist Monastery – an inspirational reminder both to regular devotees and casual non-Buddhist visitors, many of who relate to the place more as a public park than a monastery. Design and layout for a sign has been through many incarnations and may still appear at the top end of the upper carpark. A large(ish) Buddha image is the current line of thought. There are many things to consider here and plenty of time will be allowed for discussion. more detail
HTML email UPgrade
HTML email UPgrade
The last update attempted (and failed) to provide live html content. Hopefully this one delivers the goods.