Special Events

Wednesday evening , April 25th:
Exploring the Refuges and Precepts:
An Evening of Inquiry and Renewal

In this time when many forces pull us away from the cultivation of the inner life, exploring the traditional places practitioners have aligned their intentions since antiquity can be a powerful tool to enliven our inner sense of well being, and skill in action. The three refuges (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) and the five precepts (or ethical guidelines) will be explained and explored through a dharma talk and discussion. This special two hour evening event will begin with a period of silent meditation and end with a recitation of the refuges and precepts in a simple ceremonial form that you are free to participate in or observe.

These are the five precepts for your reflection:

1. To refrain from killing living creatures and to practice compassionate action.
2. To refrain from taking that which is not given and to practice generosity.
3. To refrain from using sexual energies unwisely or uncaringly and to practice responsibility in all my relationships.
4. To refrain from harmful speech and to practice kind speech.
5. To refrain from the misuse of alcohol and drugs and to practice caring for my body and mind.