A Beautiful Gathering
Ajahn Sudanto made a Springtime visit to Abhayagiri for a week during April. The occasion was a gathering of many Abhayagiri monks, from far and near – 23 monks in total (plus 5 anagārikas)! Many of them have spent time with our community here in White Salmon: Ajahn Karunadhammo, Ajahn Nyaniko, Ajahn Cunda, Ajahn Ṭhitapañño, Ajahn Kovilo, Ajahn Nisabho, Ajahn Khantiko, Tan Suddhiko, Tan Tissaro, Tan Rakkhito, Tan Jino, Tan Obāsī, and Tan Hemako. It was a joyful time of connection, made a little extra sweet by the gentle spring weather and landscape.
May Happenings
Ajahn Sudanto leaves for the Birken retreats on May 1, returning the evening of May 25th. During this time there will be no monks at the Hermitage.
- There is no May garden party.
- Alms round begins again on May 26th.
- Yoga Samadhi events will be on break, and will resume on Tuesday May 27.
Yoga Samadhi: The Next Book Discussion Begins on May 27th
Beginning on May 27th, Ajahn Sudanto will lead the community meditation Dhamma discussions using the book Breathing Like a Buddha, by Ajahn Sucitto. This is an excellent guide to breath meditation by an extraordinary monastic teacher. Both beginners and experienced meditators will benefit greatly from Ajahn Sucitto’s clear, systematic, and practical approach to this essential meditation practice.
As usual, Ajahn Sudanto will share reflections on the reading, and there will be time for questions and discussion. We’re looking forward to diving into this outstanding book. It is downloadable in various formats from the Abhayagiri website, here. Ajahn Sudanto has 50 printed copies, available for free at Yoga Samadhi and the Hermitage.
The time for the community meditation remains 6:30 – 7:30pm.
Garden Parties Resume in June
Mark your calendars: garden parties will be on June 7, July 5, August 2, September 6, and October 4. With no garden party in May, there will be plenty to do at our next one in June, more details to follow late May.