(With the Going for Refuge and Prostration Practice for Order Members at 9.30am)
Dharma Day traditionally falls on the second full moon after May, two months after the Buddha’s enlightenment. It marks the occasion on which the newly enlightened Buddha communicated his experience to other human beings. This set in motion the Wheel of the Dharma – the teaching of the Buddha. This first turning of the wheel, has been kept turning down through the ages to us.
Our day begins with an opportunity for Order Members and GfR Mitras to practise the Going for Refuge and Prostration Practice.
Then the whole Sangha is invited to gather together, meditate, listen to a Dharma talk from Suryadaya with time for reflection and conversation.
The midday festive meal is a much loved and well-practised experience of Dana. An empty table is transformed into a delicious feast with each of one of us bringing a contribution of vegetarian and vegan food to share.
Festival days are an opportunity for us to gather together and practise. There are many ways to give with Dana – generosity. We can give of our time and energy, bringing offerings of food to the table, helping out serving tea or arranging the shrine room. We can give through money in the Dana bowl and through bringing flowers to offer to the three jewels, the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha.
In the afternoon we will meditate and engage in a Sevenfold Puja, practising and celebrating together. You might want to bring a flower with you as a special offering on this special day.
The Day’s Programme:
9.30am Going for Refuge and Prostration Practice for Order Members and GFR Mitras who know the practice
10.30am Doors open
11am Top Shrine room with meditation, a talk on key aspects of the Dharma, and some time for discussion and reflection
1pm Shared Lunch – you’re invited to bring vegetarian / vegan food to share (labelled please)
2pm Clearing away in the reception area
2.15pm Top Shrine Room with meditation and Sevenfold Puja
4pm Clearing away in the Top Shrine Room and making the Centre ready for next time
4.30pm Depart
No need to book, all welcome, by donation
