Blissful Meditation Retreats & Special Events
Shelter from the Storm
Teachings on Buddhist Refuge and Refuge Ceremony
Saturday June 4, 2011
Difficulties and worry appear in all our lives. Sometimes it's just an uneasy feeling; sometimes it's a terror that makes us helpless. As long as we suffer we are not free. Where do we turn for reliable and permanent relief and help? By going for Refuge in the Three Jewels, Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, we establish the basis of a life that is free from all fear. We start to solve our problems by relying on Buddha as our Spiritual Teacher, his teachings - the Dharma, and our community of fellow practitioners - the Sangha.
For those who desire to become a Buddhist, the Refuge Ceremony is an opportunity to enter the Buddhist Path. For those who seek only inspirational blessings, the Refuge Ceremony brings great blessings upon your own spiritual search. You decide for yourself, within, at what level you are participating in this beautiful, ancient ceremony.
The day is divided into two parts. First, our Resident Teacher Kadam Ricc Bishop will give a teaching on Refuge, which will clearly explain what it means to take Refuge and its benefits followed by a short break, and Questions and Answer time. Then Kadam Ricc will grant the blessings of Refuge in the actual Refuge Ceremony. Afterward we will serve everyone a delicious vegetarian lunch!
It will, of course, be up to you whether you use this ceremony to formally become a Buddhist, or simply as a powerful blessing on your own Spiritual Path. After all, we can never have too many blessings!
Schedule
09:30am Coffee and Registration,
10:00am - 11:30am ~ The Meaning of Buddhist Refuge
11:45am - 12:15pm ~ Questions & Answers
12:30pm - 01:30pm ~ The Refuge Vow Ceremony
01:30pm - 03:00pm ~ A delicious Vegetarain Lunch to celebrate!
Requested donation: $25 ($15 Students/Limited Income and Center Sponsors) Your donation includes the delicious lunch. Please RSVP in advance so that we can plan everything.
Click here to RSVP please