Magha Puja
We celebrated this event last Sunday week and many things conspired to make it a happy and inspiring time. As always, the main ingredient was the people; plenty of them and all in good spirits. The weather was (yet another) superb summer’s day. We were also happy to welcome the new Thai ambassador to Bodhinyanarama. He has only been in New Zealand a short time and we were pleased that he took the time to visit the monastery and join with our celebrations. view photos
May May be Busy
May May be Busy
On the 3rd we will install the sitting Buddha rupa. Please add your blessings when you come to the monastery.
We will celebrate Vesak on Sunday the 24th The birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.
The Queen’s birthday retreat will start on Friday the 29th “An exploration of non-perception.”
Dana
We will celebrate Vesak on Sunday the 24th The birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha.
The Queen’s birthday retreat will start on Friday the 29th “An exploration of non-perception.”
Dana
It is always inspiring to see how this place inspires. We found Kevin in the phone book while looking to get the stupa repaired. Likewise Stu to get some digging work done. Both non-Buddhist, regular Kiwi blokes and both moved enough to offer work for free. We got quotes to repair the monastery entrance and car park and were just about to accept one when Alf turned up and offered to do it for material cost only. We all know that goodness begets goodness and generosity brings generosity but it is inspiring to actually see it happen.
Tudong
Tudong
On Friday 13th 75% of the sangha will head off with a couple of laymen friends to traverse the Whanganui River – from Taumaranui to Whanganui; about 250km. We will be in open canoes and spend nearly two weeks on the water – we hope it is mostly ‘on’ not ‘in.’ This wandering-in-nature is a traditional monastic practice and just carrying enough food and camping gear in three canoes for five people for twelve days creates comfort limits. A simple, unpredictable environment is very conducive to calm and meditative clarity.