GBV New Year Blessings 2013

Georgia Buddhist Vihara

Warmly invites you, your families, and friends to spend the New Year    with us with thoughts of loving kindness, and to confer blessings,

For good health and happiness.

The New Year is the time to open the door to new beginnings and new resolves, new hopes with positive thoughts of kindness, forgiveness and compassion.

May all beings be happy, and content - May all be free from suffering, fear, and anxiety

May all your benign wishes come true - May you remain healthy and peaceful

Our Program for the day:

January 1^st 2013

                                        10.30 am                    Gathering 

                                  11.00 am                  Buddha Puja

                                11.30 am                    Dana for the monks    

                                12.30 am           Lunch to all participants

                                01.00 pm                    Pirit Chanting              



Evening Pirit Chanting starts at 7.pm

Unduvap Poya

Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, December 09 , 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

 

 MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.)

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Dr. Deepta Jayaratne

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Cula  Saropama  Sutta: The Noble search (English)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

Il Poya

Il Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, November 25 , 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

 MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.)

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Dr. Jayaratne

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Cula  Saropama  Sutta: The Noble search (English)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

The Significance of IL Poya Day

• It is the last Poya in the rainy season.


• The announcement of the future Buddhahood of Maitriya Bodhisatva.


• The first Buddhist Missionery activity by Sixty Arahaths.


• Jatila Brothers-Uruwela, Nadi, Gaya the Buddhist Order.


• Festival of "Devahaona" or Ascendency to Tavthisa.


• Acceptance of a Robe from the Future Buddha to be Maitriya, who was a disciple of Gautama Buddha,


• Pirinirvana of "Dharmasenapathi" one of the Chief Disiples Sariputta.

Georgia Buddhist Vihara Kathina 2012

Vap Poya

The Vap Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, October 21 , 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

 

Vap (full moon Poya day in October)

The significant events commemorated during this month are: the conclusion of The Buddha's preaching of the Abhidhamma for three months to his mother in the Heavenly realm (devaloka), King Devanampiyatissa of Sri Lanka sending envoys to King Asoka requesting him to send his daughter Arahat Sanghamitta Theri to Sri Lanka to establish the Bhikkhuni Sasana (Order of Nuns)

MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.)

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Dr. Jayaratne

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Maha Saropama  Sutta: The Noble search (English)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

Katina-2012

Annual Kathina Maha Pinkama

Katina refers to the offering of  a special robe (katina civara) carefully prepared by  pious laity and presented by them to monks who have completed the three-month period of retreat called Vas in Sinhala and Vassana in Pali (literally, ‘the period of rain’).  Katina literally means ‘firm’ or ‘solid,’ as the offering of a Katina robe helps one to earn good, solid karma. The Katina Ceremony has a history spanning more than 2500 years.  A special element of the Katina robe offering   is that it is not offered to an individual monk, but to the entire community of Sangha; to all noble disciples of the Buddha --  and not only to enlightened ones, but also to those monks yet to be enlightened.  The Katina robe can be offered only during a specified period at the end of the rains retreat, between the full-moon day of October and the full-moon day of November. It is a monastic tradition long preserved and observed by Buddhists all over the world, and is highly revered as a unique, once-yearly opportunity to acquire merit. Georgia Buddhist Vihara will celebrate Kathina on  3rd and 4th days of November ( below is the full program). This year Kathina Pinkama is sponsored by devout devotee; Mr and Mrs. Ranthith and Roshni Siyasena. You are invited to attend this meritorious Pinkama.

 

SCHEDULE FOR SATURDAY NOVEMBER 3rd

SCHEDULE

Saturday November 3^rd

All night chanting (Pirith Deshanawa)

8.30 pm.- Commencement of chanting with a short admonition/ observance of precepts/ invitation to all deities .

SCHEDULE FOR SUNDAY NOVEMBER 4th

Sunday November 4^th

7.00 am—Buddha Pujawa

7.30 am – Pindapata &

Sangika Heel

Dana  (breakfast)

7.30 am—Breakfast for

devotese

08.00 am – A parade starts at the preaching hall and heading on to the Vihara pathway to main preaching hall with Buddhist flags and Robe. All are invited for this parade.

08.30  - Offering of Kathina Robe by devout Ranjith siyasena and Roshini siyasena and their family.

9.00 am—Dhamma Talk 1.

9.00 am—Dhamma Talk 2.

9.30 am – Termination.
The Georgia Buddhist Vihara cordially invites you to join in our Kathina celebration and all night chanting on November 3-4, 2012.

Kathina marks the end of the annual Vassana period (rains residence) for monastics. The lay community will present the special Kathina robe to the community of monastics along with many necessities such as food, clothing, and medicine.

We are honored to announce that devout Buddhist family, Mr. & Mrs. Ranjith, Roshini siyasena will be offering the Kathina robe and other requisites for the Sangha this year together with their family members and all others.

This year we have a major event, November 3^rd chanting will be started at 8.30 pm. And on the 4^th BREAKFAST (dana) for 10 monks from different traditions.

 

Kathina is a special ceremonial event. Kathina means unbreakable, strong, hard, firmness, or durability. Durability of what? Durability of the results of this great meritorious deed. It is an offering of a special robe to the community of monks and nuns. Today, Kathina has become quite an unparalleled event locally and internationally. It is celebrated at almost all Buddhist temples in the Theravada tradition. People are eager to participate in this special ceremony.

There are many conditions behind this event. That is why it has become an unparalleled event today. The Buddha Gotama himself has recommended this offering to the monks who observed three months (July – oct) rains retreat.

If you would like to bring food for the breakfast,

 

please contact Ranjith & Roshini siyasena

Home- 678 290 9287

Cell   - 770 527 3187

Temple- 770 987 8442

Your contributions are greatly appreciated.

 

With metta

Bante wajirabuddhi

Bante wajirakitti

Bante wajirabodhi

Ranjith and Roshini Siyasena

 

 

 

 

Sammaditthi and Madhupindika Sutras

 Sammaditthi  (Right View) Samma Ditthi Sutra  Summary

 Madhupindika (Honeyball) The discussion summary Buddhist Maha Vihara K.L

Kind chart work was  done by Sister sowfun in  Malaysia

Binara Poya (Full Moon Day)

The Binara Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, September 9th, 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.)

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Dr. Jayaratne

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Maha Hattipadopama  Sutta: The Noble search (English)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

Nikini Poya

The Nikini Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, August 05, 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.)

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Dr. Jayaratne

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Maha Hattipadopama  Sutta: The Noble search (English)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

Nirosha Perera's Journal

Nirosha Perera’s 2 Day Retreat Journal

Most teenagers wouldn't willingly commit to a retreat devoid of all technology—no laptops, television, and cell phones meant there would be no contact with the outside world and many of us teenagers just cannot face that type of reality. I have to admit, I was not ready to face that type of environment either. These conditions (that were to be imposed at the retreat), almost seemed like a punishment for something—waking up at 5 am, sitting motionless for hours at a time, and having to live without our normal daily comforts seemed like the life of a prisoner. And so, I experienced this life for two short days. I soon realized that although it seemed like a “prison” to most people, it was actually a quite liberating experience. By being taken out of conventional life and away from general society, we were able to truly explore our own minds and discover our own potential.

I was only able to attend the retreat for two days due to my school graduation ceremonies taking place during the early days of the retreat, but in those two days, I was exposed to an array of Buddhist teachings that truly impacted me during that short time. For 17 years, I had been chanting various suttras without fully understanding what I was reciting. But in those two days at the retreat, I was able to end the mindless recitations and transform them into meaningful comprehension, as I learned the meanings of many pali chantings that I hadn’t truly appreciated earlier and thus recited them with a newfound confidence.

I also embraced new approaches to Buddhism as we explored Abidhamma with the guidance of Uncle Deeptha. In the Abidhamma classes, I was able to challenge, develop, and embrace, old and new beliefs about Buddhism. We even discussed topics such as abortion and thus I appreciated the depth and gravity of topics that we discussed in the class. So, I would like to thank Uncle Deeptha for providing us with these classes.

Our visit to the Cambodian temple was also an eye opening experience. It was interesting to compare the structures of their temple to ours, and I was surprised to see that many parts of their temple were exceedingly ornate— I had always thought that as Buddhists, we sought to refrain from lavishness so I was a bit confused. But I was interested by what I saw and I’ve been stimulated to further investigate my question.

In retrospect, I have to admit that the retreat was physically and mentally challenging at times. However, it was a challenge that proved advantageous as it enabled me to explore my views of Buddhism and reawakened my pride in the Buddhist lifestyle.

I would like to deeply thank Venerable Wajirabuddhi and Venerable Wajirabodhi for giving us the opportunity to experience this enlightening retreat. I would also like to thank our parents and friends, and Mr.Steven, as they supported the retreat, brought Dane, and helped in any way they could. Last but certainly not least, I would like to thank my Dhamma brothers and sisters for participating in the retreat—I learned many things from all of you and I am proud of all that we have accomplished together.

Esala Poya

The Esala Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, July 08, 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.)

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Dr. Jayaratne

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Chula Hattipadopama  Sutta: The Noble search (English)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

Rain retreat, unrivalled Buddhist event

From http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=features/rain-retreat-unrivalled-buddhist-event

Rain retreat, unrivalled Buddhist event

Premasara Epasinghe

The Nikini Poya is connected with “Vas” - Rains Retreat or Monsoon season Retreat. It is the period of three months, in the monsoon season, during which monks (Bhikkus) and Nuns (Bhikkunis) are expected to reside one place in Indoors and devote themselves with their practice.

The Mahayana Buddhist believe it as the end Rains Retreat coincides with Ullambana/Obon Festival (Festival of the Hungry Ghosts). Vas is observed by the Theravada Buddhist and the monks and nuns concentrate on religious activities.

Vassa in Pali, or Vas in Sinhala is an auspicious day for monks and nuns. It was on this day those who attended the Vas or Rains Retreat, become one year older in the order (Salerdotal Age), the Monsoon season retreat period. A Bhikkhus or Bhikkunis seniority is determined by the number by rains he/she has spent in the order.

During the rainy seasons, Buddhist monks/nuns are not expected to live or reside outdoors, under the trees or in open air. This is a cardinal principle, the Buddhist monks/nuns should follow, during the Rainy season or Vassana Samaya.

This year’s Nikini Poya falls on Tuesday 20 August 2013. According to the principles laid down by the Buddhists, there are two days for observing Vas. They are known as “Peravas” and “Pasuvas”, namely Pre-Retreat and Post-Retreat.

Buddha observed first Vas at Migadaya Deer Park - Isipatanaramaya.

After delivering the great discourse or the wheel of Dhamma - “Dhammachakapavattana Sutta,” to the five disciples - Vappa, Bhaddhiya, Mahanama, Assaji and Kondanna, the blessed one, observed the first recorded Vas-Rain-Retreat and stayed at Migadaya, Deer Park, Isipatanaramaya.

It was at Isipatana, Migadaya, Buddha delivered the first sermon Dhammachakkapavattana Sutta, on Full Moon Day of Esala (July) two months after his awakening. Saranath mean sanctuary for Deer (In Pali Migadaya). Even today one can see some deer in this premises. This wonderful site is located 12km from the city of Varanasi or Baranasa.

Isipatana was a place for holy men. The holy men, practising in the snow clod beautiful Himalayan Range, ascended and descended to Migadaya regularly during rainy seasons. The decaying ruins of the Mulagandhakuti Vihara mark the place where Buddha spent his first rainy season, in seclusion.

The practise was there in Pre-Buddhist Era

The practise of staying indoors during the rainy season was followed even during the Pre-Buddhist Era. There were number of religious sectors - ascetics, who lived a peaceful lives in meditating and various other religious acts.

Buddha appreciated constructive criticism.

The Thiratakas - and those who followed Jainism, Nigantanathaputras followers - the naked ascetics, who were extremists protested against Buddhists monks, stating that the Rainy seasons, they roam about and they damage and kill the lives of insects by tampering them. The Buddha appreciated the constructive criticism, level against the order, and advised them to be indoors and follow Pera Vas and Pasu Vas. This clearly shows Buddhism is a Democratic Religion and that its a thinking religion.

It was revealed that on a Nikini Pura Pasalosvaka Poya Day, King Bimbisara, King of Magadha at the time of Buddha, built the city of Rajagraha (Bihar) India. He presented the Bamboo grove to Buddha for the use of the sangha. He was murdered by his son - Ajatasatra - Ajasath.

End of Vas Katinacheevara offering

Till the end of November, the Vas Period, Buddhist monks and nuns live in their Aramayas or Temples. During the end of Vas - the laymen offer Vassika Satakaya called Katina Cheevaraya. The offering of a Katina Cheevara is supposed to be one of the greatest meritorious acts.

During Vassana Retreat, certain rules were laid down to the Buddhist monks and nuns. If they are invited, only seven monks, as a group is allowed to leave their abode. They must return within a week to the place of the residence, where they observed “Vas”. This is known as “Sattakaraniya”. They are free and allowed to visit a Bhikkhu, a Buddhist nun, student monk (Sikshamanya) novice monk, novice bhikku8uni, father and mother.

When a monk falls sick, he needs help and guidance, and if the parents and relations fall sick, the Bhikkhus and Bhikkuni who have observed “Vas” are allowed to visit them. But, they have to report back to their place of indoor residence with in seven days.

Mihintalawa or Missaka Pabbata was the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The great Arahat Mahinda and Arahat Aritta observed “Vas” on Nikini Poya Day and they resided in the rock caves of Mihintale during the three months of Vas.

This practise observance of Vas, continues upto date. Sri Lankan Buddhist lay-devotees, kindly look after their residential monks during the Nikini season by providing them with alms and other necessary facilities. The Buddhist monks and nuns are involved in Indoor Religious activities such as reciting pirith and deliver sermons to their kind devotees.

First convocation

Another very notable feature that happened on the Nikini Poya Day was first ever Dhammasangayanawa - The first Buddhist council of the monks or convention under the patronage of Mahakassapa Thera where Ananda Thero too was present and participated.

Immediately within three months of the passing away of the blessed one Gautama Buddha, there was dissension among the sangha or Buddhist monks.

To arrest this situation certain disciplinary codes were laid down in this convention. It was held at Sattapanni Rock Cave in Rajagaha.

Iedisha Jayaratne's Journal

I felt like a whole new person

By Iedisha Jayaratne

When Ammi first told me about the retreat I was excited and told her to immediately sign me up. After finding out about the schedule I was a little put off, but the excitement was still there. And when we finally went to the temple around 7:30, I got really nervous, but after saying the ten precepts and observing sil, my emotions calmed down. On the first day after starting with the meditation I finally just decided not to think hard about the what ifs to calm my body and mind. At first meditating was hard because my mind was filled with unwholesome thoughts and sitting there for thirty minutes felt like an eternity. And as the day went on it became much easier for me. The visit to the Vietnamese temple helped me to learn more about the different ways that Buddhism is viewed in other countries and the traditions associated with it. The second day started with the normal schedule; waking up at five, being at the shrine room by five-thirty and so on. But because none of us were really used to the time management we were all over the place and some of us were late in getting to the shrine room on time. But Venerable Wajirabuddhi patiently waited for us and started meditation after all we all got there. At first since I was still not fully awake it was a little hard to concentrate but after putting more effort my concentration became better. As the day went on my body and mind seemed to be calmer and much more relaxed than it was the first day and unwholesome thoughts slowly faded away from my mind. And then thaththi taught us Abhidhamma lessons which taught me more about the psychological aspects in Buddhism. On the last day, we did better on the time management and I am proud to say that I finally actually sat in a lotus position without movement and good concentration for more than thirty minutes. I was able to stay that way because Venerable Wajirabuddhi taught us how to concentrate on the pain of our sitting position, thus removing the pain. I was somewhat sad that it was ending quite quickly, but I learned a lot through this experience and I like how we did everything according to a schedule while being away from technology and family. It helped me feel more responsible and in charge. I felt like a whole new person. Going on this retreat, no matter how short it is, made me realize more about life and how to relate it to Buddhism. I would like to thank Venerable Wajirabuddhi, Venerable Wajirabodhi, Shrima aunty, Mr. Stevens, my family, the other parents and my friends for making this retreat possible and for the help and guidance they provided during the retreat.

Five powers

Amma was my external energy constantly motivating me.

Day 1

Considering this is my second time doing the Dhasa-sil, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. There were flaws from my last Dhasa-sil, I now had a chance to fix. I was especially looking forward to this. I was looking forward to a stronger discipline of myself. To be honest, I was hoping to become more mindful and sustain mindfulness throughout this spiritual experience.

Nothing out of the ordinary occurred during the beginning of the day, until Vipassana meditation. Bhante advised I try using three pillows, while I meditate. This unbelievably took out the stress from my joints, and I was able to maintain the posture for a while. I’m not sure if this was a placebo effect or the pillows did actually help me. Meditation is quite remarkable indeed. To truly meditate is an extremely difficult task in my opinion. It helped me raise my awareness of simply how unmindful I was. I struggled to concentrate on breathing for even a minute. Different thoughts constantly barraged me. This showed me how thoughts were not mine. Nonetheless, this was a step forward in the right direction.

During Sutta discussion today we learned about the powers, “The five powers of one in higher training” as quoted by the Buddha. These powers are faith, shame, energy, wisdom, and moral dread. While I was unaware if I lacked the others, I knew I lacked energy. I have faith in Buddhism, but I don’t  think I would being doing this retreat if my mom didn’t push me to overcome my torpor.  In a way, Amma was my external energy constantly motivating me.

We visited the Vietnamese temple today. What a unique experience it was. I already visited it once, but today I got the chance to see a charity in honor of Dr. Ambedkar. He was an Indian spiritual leader who helped many Indians in the lower caste. Overcoming numerous social and financial obstacles, Ambedkar became one of the first outcastes to obtain a college education inIndia. He helped over throw the caste system by telling many outcaste “untouchables” they aren’t judged by their heredity and skin color but through their actions. This was a revolution for many and I can quite understand why they looked up to him. It was honestly a different experience. The afternoon puja went on smoothly, but honestly I missed the days we used to do puja in the downstairs, it brought back old memories of times I did Katina puja with my family. I do realize the fact that I won’t achieve any sleep tonight, but regardless I am certainly going to make an effort. Good night.

Day 2

I woke up at around 4… I tried to fall asleep but my mind simply refused to comply. Morning meditation. Bhante was right; the mind is simply serene in the morning. I can’t explain the sense of calmness in the shrine room, while we meditated. Words couldn’t describe it. Don’t get me wrong, this is not sleepiness. I was fully awake the whole time. During the morning it was just easier to meditate since my body was fully refreshed. It was even easier to concentrate on Vipassana meditation during this period, since the mind was I guess you could say “clean”, since it was the morning. Regardless of this fact, I still struggled to maintain concentration.  Still it was a step forward in the right direction, and that was realizing the impermanent and spontaneous nature of my thoughts. It was learning to control them. Two things I noted, Bhante has changed from the last Dhasa-sil; he removed lying meditation in the morning since most would have the tendency to fall into a deep slumber in that position, and the meditation periods itself were shorter and far more instructive.

I usually write my journals based on highlights, epiphanies, and things worth remarking. So during our work period today, I had an event worth remarking on. Steven, Nisala, and I were given the task of cleaning out the downstairs bookshelf and organizing it with new Dhamma books. The books had various sorts of languages from Cambodian to Thai to Hindu. These books were in cardboard boxes lying outside. I noticed small peculiar holes in some of these boxes but I disregarded that and carried them with the help of Mr.Steven and Nisala. While I was cleaning the windows, I came downstairs to see the progress of the shelves. What I saw was revolting. Mr.Steven and Nisala unearthed a roach nest in one of the boxes under the books. The irony of the situation was as quoted by Steven “The roaches were trying to gain enlightenment”. It is certainly interesting that these roaches were born under the scriptures of the Dhamma.  It reflects the fact how close many can be to Dhamma and not know it.

After work period we had sutta discussion and then finally an Abidhamma session. Abidhamma in my opinion turned my world upside down. A lot that I used to believe was really not valid in Abidhamma. For an instance you gained more bad kamma for committing a heinous action without the awareness that it’s wrong rather than knowing it is. This session definitely triggered my interest in the Abidhamma. We followed with Atavisi Puja and then sleep.

Day 3

I woke up at around 5 a.m in the morning. I actually had a somewhat sort of decent sleep, thanks to the sleep deprivation I experienced last night. The sleep did not bother me since this was my last day. I felt a personal satisfaction within me because I did not waste this opportunity. The priests, my parents, and family friends have constantly told me how lucky I am. I understand why now. This is a very rare experience that lets me truly get closer to Dhamma and understand the significance of it. Plus the fact that I am doing it at a youthful age makes me extremely lucky.

We went smoothly through the meditation session, morning and evening puja. We had no work day today but instead we visited the Cambodian temple. The Cambodian temple was very luxuriously designed. They were very reminiscent of East Asian Mahayana Buddhism but I wasn’t exactly sure whether they were Mahayana or not. This temple certainly changed since the last time I came here.

After the temple visit we did an Abhidamma session with Uncle Deeptha. I want to thank Uncle Deeptha for this session since Abhidhamma really helps prove the validity of Buddhism. I really recommend all of you to learn it. Uncle Deeptha using the science of Abhidhamma delved into the phenomena of rupa and nama, the form and mind. He slightly explained how our mind was constantly changing. What was a huge shock to many of us I believe was that the mind dwells in the cavity of the heart. It was a heart attack for us.

Finally we concluded with the last Atvasi Puja I will do for a while. Sadly. Nonetheless I accomplished a lot these past two years in Buddhism and look forward to furthering my knowledge. Thank you all for making this happen.

With Metta,

Ranuka Manamendra

Shanali Manamendra

It opened my eyes a bit on seeing the true reality

By Shanali Manamendra

Day 1

My experience while taking Sil was very interesting. On the first day, I didn't want to do Sil, because I thought it would be boring. Soon as I took the ten precepts, it changed. During Bhavana, it was really hard to concentrate on breathing. Also I had difficulties on sitting in one position. I kept moving posture which was very uncomfortable. After Bhavana, Venerable Wajirabuddi asked two people to prepare the Puja, which was Iedisha and I. We took the tray of food, put a cloth over it, went to the shrine room and started chanting. Then during breakfast the sil members and I had to focus on eating and tasting the food, which means eating mindfully.

We also did loving friendliness meditation. I thought about all the people, creatures, problems, and troubles they are going through. I felt deep sympathy and compassion about everybody. During walking meditation, I had to walk slowly and focus on the walking mechanism. Sometimes it was hard to balance since the movement was so slow.

Around 6:00 P.M we went to a Vietnamese temple. I really enjoyed the trip to the Vietnamese temple. There were beautiful stones and structures inside the Vietnamese temple. Later on the Sil members and I had to prepare for Puja. It was nice preparing for the Puja. I felt peaceful . I liked working hard instead of being lazy. Then we started paying respect and chanting for the 28 Buddhas. Our bedtime was at 9:00 P.M. We had to sleep early because we have to wake up at 5:00 in the morning.

Day 2

At 5:30 A.M, we did Bhavana. Again I had difficulties focusing on one object, and my whole body was in pain. We did walking meditation. It helped me focus on walking slowly. Then Ven. Vajirabuddi Thero taught us Dhamma. He even taught us a Suttra that has five powers and one of them that I remember is shame. If you have shame that means you care about your actions. If you don't have shame it means you don't care or fear the consequences.

We didn't get a chance to go visit a temple. Instead Uncle Deeptha came and taught us Abhidhamma. I got to learn what happens in the past, present, and the next life. I even learned that the mind is in the heart and not in the brain. In Abhidhamma, I learned some things I didn't know about Buddhism. After Abhidhamma, we did puja and  went to bed. We were happy and exhausted. Even though it was hard sleeping on the floor, we fell a sleep fast. My experience on this day was quite successful because I learned many things I didn't know.

Day 3

This was our last day. This time I've gotten my mind to concentrate on breathing and sitting in one position. When pain came, I concentrated on pain. I thought it was quite successful.

During our last day we got a chance to go to aCambodianTemplewith Ven. Vajiraboddi Thero. In the Cambodian temple there were beautiful sculptures and it felt spiritual. It fascinated me. After visiting theCambodianTemple, we came to theTempleand did Abhidhamma with Uncle Deeptha. He told us about Buddhism and the philosophy of it which was interesting. Then we prepared the Puja. I finally finished Dhasasil by taking the five precepts.

Taking Sil for three days was actually beneficial.  It helped me quite a lot. It opened my eyes a bit on seeing the true reality. Learning dhamma helped me fix some of my mistakes. I wish I can take Dhasasil again next year. I want to thank Ven. Wajirabuddi , Ven. Wajiraboddi and Uncle Deeptha for giving us this wonderful opportunity to learn Buddhism.

Sharry Jayaratne's Journel

 I had resigned myself to the inevitable and was ready to face the retreat.

When Ammi told me that I had to attend the Retreat last year, I was not very happy and was unsure of what to expect. Given my restless nature during regular sil, I could not fathom how I would survive three days of non-stop sil. As the day for the retreat came closer, I had resigned myself to the inevitable and was ready to face the retreat.

The first morning started out as usual with us observing the precepts (10 this time instead of the 8). Then we started the meditation, where we were told to keep a clear mind filled with wholesome thoughts. This was the trial I was afraid of; given my multitasking nature my mind tends to run 100 different directions. Thus to focus on one thing was most difficult for me, but during the day this became more and more easy as we started learning a sutta from the Anguttara nikaya. We learned about the five powers which immensely helped me to concentrate and put an effort to acquire more wholesome thoughts.  I was also relieved by the lack of attachments (technology, parents and household responsibilities), which aided in my concentration. By the end of the first day, my mind was relaxed and uncluttered, allowing me to sleep on the floor without being uncomfortable.

Photo Gallery

The second day, waking up and washing was not as rushed as I thought it would be. But then I ran in to trouble with the meditation because of my inability to maintain one posture for long. That hour was distracting and disappointing, making me fear the rest of the oncoming meditation sessions. During the second session, the Venarable taught us how to focus on the pain thus allowing us to remain in one posture during meditation. This helped immensely with the pain and my focus during meditation. During work time and journal writing time, I enjoyed the Buddhist discussions I had with my peers as this allowed me to keep my mind on wholesome thoughts. The last lesson of the day was the main highlight. Abhidhamma teachings helped me to view Buddhism in a different way, after learning Buddhism for 18 years; I finally got a basic understanding of the major philosophies engrained in this doctrine.

The third day followed the same schedule, but I felt as most of my skills improved. I could concentrate better during meditation and understood the basic Abhidamma concepts. At the end of the day, I felt conflicted about going back to my regular lifestyle, where there were so many temptations. I vowed to myself that I would be more involved and try to observe sil as often as I can, to control my mind thus allowing me to control my actions and become a more wholesome person closer to achieving nibbhana.

I would like to thank Venerable Vajirabuddhi and Venerable Vajirabodhi for organizing and giving us the opportunity to participate in this retreat. I would also like to thank thaththi for the Abhidhamma lessons and Steven for being there and providing guidance to us as necessary. I want to thank the parents for encouraging us to attend this retreat, for providing the dana and staying there for our safety during the nights. Finally I would like to thank my peers for participating in this retreat with me while encouraging me to participate in intellectual discussions.

Lakshika Panditaratne's Retreat Experiences.

An Experience I Will Never Forget

by Lakshika Panditaratne

Day 1

The first day of the retreat was definitely the most confusing due to the fact that I had no idea of the events that would take place during the amazing experience. However, I was eager to begin. The schedule was a little off, because we started the day a couple of hours later than we should have. We began the day by observing the ten precepts, which most people do not get the chance to do. Because I had trouble getting my mind to focus, the meditation was the most challenging part of the day. Instead of cooperating, my mind kept getting easily distracted by the littlest of noises. Until this day I had no idea how hard it is to concentrate on a given object. During the Dhamma talk we discussed a Sutra called "The Trainee's powers". This Sutra explained the five powers of a noble disciple. The five powers include faith, shame, moral dread, energy, and wisdom. In Pali they are called Saddha(faith), Hiri (shame), Ottappa (moral dread), Viriya (energy), and Panna (wisdom). Later, we visited the Vietnamese temple. It had a very roomy shrine room with a huge bell in the back. Behind the shrine room was a separate room where pictures and ashes of the dead were kept. Outside of the temple there was a pen of peacocks and a gigantic statue of a Laughing Buddha. Once we returned back to the temple we concluded the day with the Atavisi Puja.

Photo gallery

Day 2

We woke up at 5:00 a.m. today, which was a little bit difficult for me. Although the morning meditation was a little better than the first day, I felt as if my mind was not fully focusing. I learned that concentrating on a part of your body that is in pain will cause the pain to vanish. I was surprised to find out that it actually does work. I also found out that there are six different ways to focus bodily contemplation; breathing, postures, clear comprehension, repulsiveness, elements and charnel ground.   The four postures are sitting, standing, walking, and lying down meditation. We also learnt feeling, mental objects and Dhamma sections known as four foundations of mindfulness.  For the work period we cleaned all the windows, which was a very quick and easy task. The highlight of the day was the Abhidhamma session taught by Uncle Deeptha. Although Abhidhamma is a hard concept to grasp, as Uncle Deeptha said, it was definitely interesting. During this session I learned that the Buddha's teaching is a deep form of science that is yet to be discovered by scientists. I also acquired that the word " Abhidhamma" means deepest phenomena. Once again, we ended the day with the Atavisi Puja and a little journal writing.



Day 3

Just like before we woke up at 5 a.m. This time it wasn't as hard as it was before. The morning meditation was my favorite meditation that I have ever done. Even with the sounds of birds chirping and other little distractions in the shrine room I was able to concentrate on the breath the whole time. Today we demonstrated lying down meditation for the first time. This form of meditation is done by simply lying on the right side with the right arm cradling the head and the left arm along the side. Because we skipped the work period, it gave us a chance to visit the Cambodian temple. Venerable Wajirabodhi Thero told us that the Cambodian Buddha statue is similar to the Thai Buddha statue. The shrine room of the temple consisted of vibrant colors, statues of goddesses, and of coarse a Buddha statue. The exterior shrine room, which was very detailed, was surrounded by Simas. This boundary is placed around the temple, it stands as a limitation. During a special occasion people are not allowed beyond it. Through out the Abhidhamma session I learned that ignorance is the beginning of Sansara, it is also the cause of suffering. I was also taught that the mind is located in the heart and that the mind is even faster than the speed of light. Once the Abhidhamma session was over we all worked together to prepare for the Atavisi Puja. Afterwards, we concluded the retreat with a group photo.



This experience changed my perspective on Buddhism; I am now more committed to following the teachings of the Buddha. So, I would like to thank my parents for encouraging me to participate in this program. I would also like to thank Venerable Wajirabuddhi, Venerable Wajirabodhi, Mr. Steve, uncle Deeptha, aunty Shrima and all the other parents and friends who made effort to make this program success. Thanks to you all, the program was an experience I will never forget!

Poson Poya 2012

The Poson Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, June 10, 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.) Note: Dr. Ananda Pathiraja also will bring Dana for the Sangha

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Dr. Jayaratne

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Ariya Pariyesana  Sutta: The Noble search (English)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

Nisala Jayagoda's Retreat Experiences

My experience at the Temple during the 3 day retreat

By Nisala Jayagoda

When I first came to the retreat, I had no idea what to expect. I wasn’t sure if I could stay 3 days without technology, not sit in knee-height chairs, wake up at 5 a.m.! At the beginning it seemed like a normal Sila day, but when we started to meditate, I felt it was different. It was different because I did not have the thoughts of the normal hustle and bustle of my daily life clouding my mind. Later we went to the Vietnamese temple, which I though was one of the highlights of the day. In the shrine room, there were huge drums and huge bells which they stuck against before each Buddha Puja. Later in the day we did the Atavisi Puja, which I have not done in a very long time.

The next day we had to wake up at 5 a.m. in the morning, which surprisingly, was very easy. In the morning we had meditation, which was even easier than the day before because my mind was completely calmed and most of my muscles were still resting and were not painful. During the Sutra discussion I learned that the Buddha had explained many scientific rules and theories well before modern science. We finally had an Abhidhamma session and it went really deep into the workings of the mind. It brought my attention to question the reality of all material things in this world. Abhidhamma is also one of Buddhas precious teachings, which agrees with all modern sciences.

The last day was the most interesting day. We woke up at 5 a.m. again, and got ourselves ready for the morning meditation. Since this was the last day of the program, we had to compress the entire schedule into 13 hours. We had the normal meditation time, but crunched everything else. We skipped the work period, which disappointed me a bit, since that was my way to release my pent-up energy. But that sacrifice allowed us to pay a visit to the Cambodian temple. The Cambodian temple resembled our Sri Lankan temple very much, with the exception of an outdoor shrine room. When we came back, we had a 3 hour Abhidhamma session, which I enjoyed thoroughly. We concluded the day with Atavsi Puja. At the end we took part in a group photo. When I came home, the first thing I did was sit on a couch to take a well deserved nap. But I still feel that I needed the simplicity of the retreat, in order to calm my racing mind about the things that I will do over the summer. I would definitely recommend anyone to go to this retreat.

Photo Gallery

Side note: I would personally like to thank Venerable Vajirabuddhi, Venerable Vajiraboddhi, for devoting their valuable time and effort to make this program a success. I would also like to thank all the parents and Mr. Steven, who volunteered to support this event in many ways.

With Mettha,
Nisala Jayagoda
Georgia Buddhist Vihara

5/26/2012

Vesak Full Moon Poya Day 2012

Georgia Buddhist Vihara wishes you a happy and a peaceful Vesak!

Our annual Vesak program celebrates three events of the utmost significance in the life of prince Siddhartha who became the Buddha – His Birth, his attainment of Enlightenment, and his passing away. Georgia Buddhist Vihara warmly invites you to be a part of the triple commemoration. Vesak full moon day has been for centuries regarded as the Buddha Day. For it was on a Vesak full moon day, that the Shakyan prince Siddhartha Gautama was born, in Lumbini Park, on the frontier of Napal, attained Enlightenment, under the Bodhi tree in Gaya, and finally passed away. Buddhists all over the world celebrate with devotion the Triple Anniversary of Vesak. To a true follower of the Buddha, there is no greater day than Vesak Poya day which also symbolizes peace, love, compassion and piety.

With this in view the Vihara has organized various activities to celebrate this occasion focusing on Dana, Seela and Bhavana (Generosity, Morality, and Meditation).

Program for Sunday, May 06 ,2012

Program

7.30 am   Observance of the Eight Precepts,for both adult and young

Buddha Pooja and Heel Dana

8.30  Break for Tea/Coffee

9.00  Bhavana

10.00  Bhavana (for children and Young)

11.00  Buddha Pooja

11.20  Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. If you wish to bring anything for the Dana you may sign up here 

12.00  Lunch

1.00  Abhidhamma lessons by Dr. Deepta Jayaratne

2.30  Break

2.45  Dhamma Talk in Sinhala by Ven. Dhammaloka/Dhamma Talk in English By Ven. Wajirabodhi

3.45  Group Discussion (Sutra)

5.00 Atavisi Buddha Pujawa, Termination of Sil for adults, Gilanpasa Pooja, and Pirith chanting.

Bak Poya

The Bak Full Moon Poya Day Program and  Dhamma class will be held on on Sunday, April 22, 2012, from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.  We invite you all to join the program.

MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:30am Observance of the eight Precepts, Buddha Puja and Heel Dana.

8:30am – 9:00am Tea & coffee break

9:00am – 11:00am Vipassana Meditation.

11:00am Buddha Puja

11:20am – 12:00 Noon Dana offering to the monks and those who observe eight precepts. For more information please feel free to contact the Vihara at 770-987-8442.)

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:00Noon – 1:00pm Luncheon

1:00 – 2:30pm Discussion will be base on Abhidhamma by Mr. Prasanna Bopitiya

1:30-4:00pm  Dhamma Class

2:30 – 2:45pm Break.

3.00-5.00pm  Sutra Discussion; Nivapa Sutta: Relay Chariots  (English, Sinhala)

5:30 pm  Termination of the Sil Gilanpasa Pujava

Meditation Retreat

The next vipassana (mindfulness) meditation retreat and noble day of silence on Saturday, April 28, 2012 from 7am to 6pm.  This one-day meditation retreat will held at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara  (3153 Miller Road, Lithonia, GA 30038).  For this retreat, all meditation instructions, discussions, and Dhamma talks will be conducted in English. This retreat is open to everyone....those who are new to meditation as well as those who are experienced meditators.

Below is a tentative schedule of the day's events:

MORNING PROGRAM

7:30am – 8:00am: Observance of Refuge and the Eight Precepts, Buddha Puja ("offerings"), and traditional Buddhist chanting in Pali (with English translations).

8:00am – 8:30am: Breakfast (self-service)

8:30am – 10:00am: Meditation instructions and vipassana meditation

 10:00am – 10:30am: Break (coffee/tea) and personal reflection/reading

10:30am – 11:00am: Metta ("Loving-Friendliness") meditation 

11:00am - 11:30am: Buddha Puja

11:30am – 12:30pm:  Lunch (self-service)  

AFTERNOON PROGRAM

12:30pm – 1:30pm: Walking meditation

1:30pm – 2:00pm: Break (coffee/tea) & personal reflection/reading

2:00pm - 3:00pm: Vipassana meditation

3:00pm – 5:00pm: Sutta Discussion: We will continue our investigation of the Buddha's teachings as recorded in the Majjhima Nikaya (Middle Length Teachings) by discussing the Vitakkasanthana Sutta: The Removal of Distracting Thoughts (MN #20) - In this teaching, the Buddha describes how to combat the arising of unwholesome thoughts (i.e., greed, sensuous desire, hatred, and ignorance) with wholesome thoughts. (You will find a PDF version of this sutta by visiting this link - Please print a copy of the sutta and bring it to Saturday's discussion.)

 5:00pm - 6:00pm  Observance of the Five Precepts and Termination of the Eight Precepts, Buddha Puja, and concluding chanting.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

PLEASE NOTE:

Participants will need to bring (1) a light breakfast food (e.g., fruits, bagels, etc.) and (2) a lunch dish (preferably vegetarian) to share with the resident monks and the retreat participants as a form of dana (offering).  It is also customary to bring flowers, candles, or incense to place on the shrine as an offering. It is customary to wear white clothing when observing the Eight Precepts, though this is not a requirement for attendance.

During this special time, please consider making a monetary donation to the vihara as a form of dana so that we can continue to support the monks and to keep the vihara open so that all people are able to practice and learn about the Dhamma (the Buddha's teachings).

I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, April 28 at the vihara.  To confirm that you are planning on attending the retreat or if you have questions about our program, please feel free to contact me either by email (justinhowell2112@gmail.com) or by phone at 404/375.0264. 

 I hope that you will be able to join us for this day of quiet contemplation.  If you are unable to make this retreat, please know that we will be having regular, day-long vipassana retreats once a month throughout the year. Additionally, you may join us for meditation and discussion on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00pm.  

 May you, your friends, and family members be well, happy, and peaceful……

 Justin

========================================
Justin Howell
Cell phone:             404.375.0264      

"Live as if you were to die tomorrow.  Learn as if you were to live forever."  -M. Gandhi

"You can't lead the people if you don't LOVE the people. You can't save the people if you won't SERVE the people."  - Cornel West

Sri Lankan New Year 2012

Sri Lankan New Year celebration will be held on the   Saturday, April 14, 2012 at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara, 3153 Miller Rd, Lithonia,  GA 30038.

10.15 am Lighting the oil lamp.
10.30 am Significance of the New Year
11.00am Buddha Puja
11.30 am Dana for the Maha Sangha
12. Noon Pirith chanting an offering of the sheaf of betel leaves to
the monks and parents.

12.40pm Luncheon for the guests
1.45 pm Cultural Events begins.

Note: Parents should bring present for around $5 (wrapped and labeled with child’s name) for each of your children so that all the children will get a useful present.

Youth Retreat 2012

Georgia Buddhist Vihara’s Youth Retreat   2012

(May 26,27,28   2012)

Retreat Application Form for Youth Summer Retreat

You must print and complete the following forms to apply for the summer retreat program. Please note that space is limited for 10 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis. This retreat is for males and females who are between 15 and 25 years of age. At this time, there are no facilities that support a co-ed retreat. The Georgia Buddhist Vihara hopes to be able to support a co-ed retreat in the near future.

 

All forms must be completed in full and must be submitted on or before May 1, 2012. You may deliver the forms in person to the Georgia Buddhist Vihara, you may mail the completed forms to the Vihara (3153 Miller Road, Lithonia, GA 30038), or you may scan and email completed forms to Justin Howell (justinhowell2112@gmail.com). An email confirmation will be sent once your application has been received.

 

Participant’s Name: ______________________________________________

 

Participant’s Age: _______________________

 

Parent’s/Guardian’s Name: __________________________________________________

 

Address: ________________________________________________________

 

Parent’s/Guardian’s Email Address: ___________________________________________

 

Home Phone: __________________________ Cell Phone: ___________________________

 

Business Phone: ____________________________________

 

Emergency Contact: __________________________ Phone: __________________________________

 

By signing below you are giving permission to participate in all activities related to the weekly retreat at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara. By signing below, you (as the participant) understand all requirements to participate in the retreat. By signing below, you are giving permission for the retreat participant to be transported in temple and/or personal vehicles of those who are acting as retreat coordinators while attending a retreat at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara.

 

_________________________ ______________________

Signature of Participant Date

 

_________________________ ______________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian Date

(if participant is under 18 years old)

Medical Information

Does the participant have any medical or health issues that we should be aware of? If so, please describe: ____________________________________________________________________________________

 

____________________________________________________________________________________

 

Allergies: ___________________________________________________________________________

 

Chronic disability or illness (past or present): _______________________________________________

 

Name of Family Doctor: ________________________ Phone: ________________________________

Insurance Plan Name: _______________________ Group Number: ___________________________

Member Number: _______________________________

Dietary Restrictions

Describe: _____________________________________________________________________________

 

Medications

I would like for the participant to be given the following medications:

 

Name of medicine: ____________________ What is the medicine used for: __________________

 

Quantity of be given: __________________ Times to be given: _____________________

 

All medicines should be clearly labeled with the participant’s name, name of medication, what it is to be used for, quantity to be given and time to be given. The Georgia Buddhist Vihara does not assume responsibility for administration of medicine beyond oral medications. In case of emergency, I hereby give permission to the physician named above, or, in his or her absence, to any other physician, to provide treatment.

 

_________________________ ______________________

Signature of Participant Date

 

_________________________ ______________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian Date

(if participant is under 18 years old)

---------------------------------------------------------------

 

Georgia Buddhist Youth  Retreat    

(May 26,27 & 28)

Daily Schedule

• 5:00–5:30am – Wake Up, Coffee/Tea.


• 5:30–6:30 – Group Meditation


• 6:30–7:00 – Buddha Puja


• 7:00–8:00 – Breakfast (self-service)


• 8:00–9:00 – Vipassana Meditation


• 9:00–9:30 – Break, Coffee/Tea


• 9:30–10:00 – Meditation Instruction


• 10:00–10:30 – Walking Meditation


• 10:30–11:00 – Metta Meditation


• 11:00–11:30 – Buddha Puja


• 11:30–12:30pm – Lunch


• 12:30–1:30 – Work Period


• 1:30–3:30 – Sutta Discussion


• 3:30–4:00 – Break, Coffee/Tea


• 4:00–4:30 – Personal Reading and Reflection


• 4:30-    5:30-      Abhidhamma session by Dr. Deeptha Jayaratne


• 5:30–6:00 – Prepare for Trip


• 6:00–7:30 – Temple Visits


• 7:30–8:30 – Atavisi Buddha Pujawa, Group Chanting (selected Sutra with English meanings) Metta Meditation


• 8:30–9:00 – Journal Writing; Prepare for Bed


• 9:00–Lights Out

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General Guidelines for Retreat Participants

What Not to Bring

• Do not bring illicit drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products.


• Do not bring personal computers, personal gaming systems, cell phones, mp3 players, electronic musical devices, radios, musical instruments, newspapers, magazines and secular books to the center. Buddhist reading materials will be provided.


• Do not bring clothing with distracting lettering.


• Do not wear perfumes or deodorants with strong scents.


• Do not bring pets.

What to Bring

• Flashlight


• Sleeping Bag, Pillow, Towel (shower facilities are available)


• Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, razors)


• Bring a cup (for tea/coffee and water), a plate, and a spoon and fork for eating.


• Ear plugs if you are a light sleeper


• Personal meditation cushion if you prefer (We have plenty of zafus, zabutans, and benches for everyone)


• Modest clothing. (Even in the warmest of weather, tank tops and short shorts are not acceptable.) Do not bring t-shirts with commercial or political messages. You are requested to wear white clothing, if possible.


• Work gloves, cleaning gloves, breathing mask (if working outside causes breathing problems) for the work period.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Family Sponsorship Form 

• Each sponsoring family will need to arrive at the vihara by 6am on their designated day in order to prepare the morning meal for the monks and retreat participants.


• Sponsoring families will also be responsible for preparing the lunch meal.


• Sponsoring families will be responsible for preparing evening nutrition and leaving it for the participants to consume later in the evening.


• It is preferred that sponsors adhere to the following guidelines for providing meals during the retreat period:
  
  
  
  • All meals should be vegetarian.
  
  
  • Food for the morning meal should be light and consist of cereal, oatmeal, muffins, bagels, fruit, yogurt, or pancakes.
  
  
  • Food for the lunch meal should be more substantial since this will be the primary meal until the next morning meal.
  
  
  • Evening nutrition could consist of homemade juices, milkshakes, soup, etc. Please be mindful that retreat participants have taken the 10 precepts which stipulate that no solid, substantial food should be taken after noon.
  
  
  
  

 

 

Saturday, May 26

Danas & Evening  Gilanpasa & Ata-visi Pujjawas will be taken care of by Mrs. Priyanga, Mrs. Sumudu & Mrs. Taniya & one or 2 Mothers will be there for the nights with the Girls   

Sunday, May 27

Dr Unil  Peraa family  will provide the Daval Dana for Sunday & Flowers & Gilanpasa for the eve Ata-visi Pujawa on Sunday Morning.

Monday, May 28

Danas & Gilanpasa & Ata-visi Puja wasthu  will be provided by Mrs. Roshini, Mrs. Upeksha & Mrs.Kumudini