Regular events

Sangha night

Putting the Buddha into Buddhism: stories from the Buddha's life

Pingiya's praises of the way to the Beyond
with Mary Anna Smith

In this sutra, Pingiya praises all the qualities of the Buddha to his former teacher Bavari. His teacher asks him, " if this Buddha is so great, why aren't you with him?" to which Pingiya replies:

There is no moment for me, however small that is spent away from Gotama (the Buddha).

The idea of never being away from the Buddha is a curious one. Pingiya was old and feeble, through physical limitations he was not able to be with the Buddha, but by singing his praises he was able to recollect the Buddha in his mind and thus engaged in a powerful practice that is still practiced by Buddhists today.

Mary Anna will discuss her recent experience with engaging in Buddhism without the Buddha. She will discuss what value is added by imaginatively connecting to the Buddha. She will talk about the human need to have something to revere, and how the Buddha can provide inspiration and motivation over time and space

In this series of talks, we will explore stories around the life and the teachings of the Buddha. We will cover

• what is known historically about the Buddha and his life
• what are some of the key stories associated with the Buddha
• how these stories carry messages for how to approach our life today
• who it is we are going for refuge to and why
• how we can use our imagination to connect with the Buddha over time and space

Wednesday nights are a place for people who have attended our foundation courses to come together and celebrate community as well as an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the Buddha's teaching.

Each evening will include a meditation, a short teaching and a chance to reflect with others on the meaning of the teaching for our lives.

If you're unable to get to the centre in person, please email abcsanghanight@gmail.com regarding remote access.

When

Cost