Regular classes and one-off events exploring Buddhist practice
THURSDAY DAYTIME CLASS
Stories from the Buddhist Tradition
The Thursday class on 19th December is cancelled as Shakyapada is unwell
There is no class over the holidays so the next class will be on 2nd January
There will be a short break around 12 noon each week
Each week we will start with a guided meditation and, after a tea break, we will hear a story from the Buddha's time and then explore the lessons and teachings contained in that story to see how they can help us in our lives in the 21st Century
This is a drop-in class so come when you can - no need to book. All over 18 Welcome - Experience of Buddhism or meditation is not necessary. There is no charge but we would appreciate a donation on the day.
PRACTICE NIGHT
Exploring the Mandala of the Five Buddhas
Wednesday Evenings from 20th November to 18th December - 7.00pm to 9.15pm (with a break around 8.00pm)
The Buddhist tradition has an abundance of mythical or archetypal Buddhas - each one symbolising a particular quality or qualities of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni. The Five Buddha Mandala is a particular grouping of these Archetypal Buddhas which, together, can be thought of as the Dharmadatu - or Ultimate Reality, the Enlightened Mind or our true potential as human beings. During these five weeks we will be exploring what they mean and how they came about, and how, one by one, they can guide us towards spiritual growth and understanding.
All over 18 welcome whether new to Buddhism or more experienced. There is no need to book, just turn up. There is no charge but, as we have no other income we would appreciate a donation each week (we suggest £10 but please donate whatever feels okay)
SPECIAL EVENT:
Meditation and Mince Pies
Friday 27th December 3.00pm to 4.30pm
An opportunity to leave the Holiday Festivities for a while and find a little quiet in meditation with other members of the sangha. We will sit from 3.00pm until 3.40 after which there will be an opportunity to have refreshments and mince pies, and a chat with others until 4.30. Or you can just choose to sit on in the Shrine Room.
Open to all over 18 but please note that this meditation will not be guided.
PRACTICE NIGHT:
Turn of the Year Puja
Wednesday 1 January 2025 7pm – 9:15pm
As the old year fades,
As the light returns,
May I be renewed as the earth is renewed,
May my being blossom as the earth begins to blossom.
On this, the first day of the New Year we gather together to let go of what has gone before and open our hearts and minds to what is to come with a sense of acceptance and gratitude for what we have and thankfulness for our lives.
This evening is open to all and as usual there is no specific charge but we would ask that you make a donation to help keep the centre open. We suggest around £10 or whatever you can afford.
PRACTICE NIGHT:
Don't Panic - Everything Changes!
Wednesday 8 January 2025 7pm – 9:15pm
Sometimes we can feel overwhelmed by a world that is so full of change and insecurity. Political upheaval, climate change, wars, injustice and the suffering of others can all take their toll on us. Tonight Mark will explore how our practice can help us to deal with worry, anxiety and fear.
All over 18 welcome whether new to Buddhism or more experienced. There is no need to book, just turn up.
PRACTICE NIGHT:
Mitra Ceremony
Wednesday 15 January 2025 7pm – 9:15pm
Becoming a mitra (which means "friend") is a significant step someone's spiritual life. It is a declaration that they consider themselves to be a Buddhist within the context of the Triratna Buddhist Community. It is also a commitment to deepening their practice. This is an important occasion both for the new mitras and those who witness them as they make their commitment to their practice.
This evening two of our community - Astrid and Peter - are making a formal commitment to their practice in the midst of an evening of joy, love and celebration. Open to all over 18.