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| 2 Hours of Spritual Training |
Spiritual Training
Our Wednesday night gatherings used
to focus on Shin training but
integrate the meditative practices of Zen Buddhism, which helps cultivate ethical living, inner wisdom and meditative
awareness, which are the basis of the Noble Eightfold Path.
If you want to practice with us, please attend the Buddhist Practice Groups of Farmington and Rocky
Hill. Refer to our Connecticut Buddhist Links page for links.
Rooted in the Mahayana tradition, we incorporate
both Shin and Zen training to better support spiritual practice in our, often hectic, everyday lives. The goal is to provide
an experience that will aid in opening the mind to the
sacred Oneness, developing deeper compassion and spiritual understanding. Our services skillfully reflect 21st
century American culture, while providing time-honored Buddhist teachings and practices, which help us to discover life’s
purpose and to find joy, gratitude, and peace in a community setting.
What Can You Expect?
We are a circle of equals. We don't have hierarchies
or gurus, though we do have a certified dharma teacher to facilitate the service. As practitioners of the Shin path, we stress
an egalitarian community and attitude. We call each other friends, dress casually,
and are very welcoming. In our gatherings, we practice deep hearing, quiet sitting and voice meditation, prayer and the voicing
of the Nembutsu as an expression of outr trust in and gratitude for the ultimate Oneness of life, symbolized as Amida Buddha.
Instead of sermons, our spiritual community is known
for its insightful and lively dharma discussions. As our founder, the 13th century Japanese reformer, Shinran Shonin,
taught, "We are all fellow travelers on the path," and, as such, anyone may share his/her opinion and experience. Learning
from one another in this fashion creates a strong, nourishing environment. We care for and love one another and live in service
to the world. This is the true meaning of our religion.
Our Wednesday night gathering
is all about learning and practicing the Buddhist teachings in order to awaken ourselves to the dynamic unfolding of Life
itself.
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| For Beginners and Advanced Seekers |
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