Community Gatherings

The Bodhisara Community Gathering has been reborn. Click here for the schedule.

We have changed the focus and the format of the meetings. Greater priority is now given to adults and young people learning and having fun together, spending one hour together and 30 minutes apart to allow the adults to meditate and kids to have free play. You do not have to have kids to come, (one of the main movers behind this program is Lori Tanner, who has no children but likes to be with them) but the emphasis is upon learning in the presence of all ages. Programs will include chanting, meditation (brief and guided for young people), singing and other projects including drama, art, sharing of our views on spiritual and moral topics, community service, and more. We will begin working on March 7 on a dramatization of the Buddha's life to present at Vesak.

We will share responsibility for the program and its content. We hope adults will look at this as an opportunity to provide for the spiritual education of the next generation and to develop awareness, understanding and compassion within a multigenerational group. Feedback we have received from parents indicates that children benefit from these programs because they feel respected by and important to adults who listen to them and because they can hear adults express their points of view (not just their parents') and struggle with questions vital to being a human being.

Adults benefit because they hear the Dharma spoken simply and they can enjoy the energy and enthusiasm of young people on the same path. They have the opportunity to model kindness, respect, and generosity in a community (while also having sun!), allowing both parties to learn from the encounter. Parents have also found kids hold them accountable for what they learn.

You do not need to register and there is no charge for these programs, though you are invited to contribute to Bodhisara to supports its activities and there will be a contribution basket at the meetings. If you have questions or would like to let us know you plan to attend, you may call me at 259-2145.

Directions from Amherst:

Mt Toby Friends Meetinghouse is in Leverett on Route 63. Coming north out of Amherst on Route 63, I estimate (never clocked it) it is 3-4 miles from the Leverett Town line, and on the left 1/4 mile after passing the right turn for Depot Road. It is a one-story while building set off from the road but visible from the road. There is a small (not very visible) sign at the entrance. If you need me to talk you through directions from other locations, just call.

The Bodhisara Community Gatherings offers a rare opportunity to practice and learn the teaching where families are welcome, and it is a distinct part of our mission to make the teaching available to the next generation. Historically, much energy has been put into our program for children. And this has paid off.

Hope to see you!