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ProgramSangha night is held every Wednesday evening except for Thanksgiving and December 25 and January 1. Doors open at 6:45pm for a 7:00 meditation and a program in the second half of the evening. We end at 9:15pm The class content gives a basic grounding in the teachings of Buddhism with an emphasis on their practical application. These teachings are on one hand basic but on the other, profound. We never really reach the end of them. On evenings when a course is not scheduled, we plan a diverse range of programming such as meditation instruction and practice, and lectures and workshops on topics of interest (e.g., social activism, Buddhism and art, exploration of ritual). This program is posted on the web page and the Center bulletin that comes out every month. Click here to add yourself to our mailing or e-Mailing list. The class is led primarily by local and visiting members of the Western Buddhist Order who have dedicated themselves to living a Buddhist way of life. You will see Order members wearing white "kesas" around their necks that are traditional to Buddhism. Members of the Sangha contribute to Sangha Night by participating directly in the program and also by their presence and engagement.
Monthly Ritual Practice Once a month, in the 2,500 year old tradition of the historical Sangha, the program consists of a full moon "puja" (ritual/devotional practice). These evenings are listed in the Center Bulletin. Puja engages our emotions in an imaginary spiritual journey starting from where we are and taking us all the way to enlightenment. This practice consists of seven poetic verses done in call and response. There is also some chanting. The puja takes about 45 minutes and you can participate as you feel comfortable. Feel free to observe. Order members are happy to answer any questions you may have about the puja.
Festivals Buddhist festivals are celebrated around the world. They are opportunities for the Sangha to assemble in large numbers which has a special quality to it. Because of this connection to Sangha, we celebrate festivals at Sangha Night. We observe five festivals throughout the year and each has a special significance. For example, Paranirvana Day is a sort of Buddhist Day of the Dead focusing on impermanence. Festivals are listed in the Center Bulletin. The class format varies on festival evenings.
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