Puja, Chanting, Dhamma Talks
Buddha Puja
During our Sunday Services, before Meditation, we conduct a brief Buddha Puja, which is a short ceremony where food and drink, flowers, incense, and candlelight offerings are made to the Buddha in the spirit of generosity, letting go, and selflessness. After the objects are placed on the Altar, we engage in a brief period of Pali Chanting, with chant- books which are provided, and then begin formal Meditation.
When practiced mindfully, Buddha Puja can enhance one's connection to Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha, decrease attachment and ego, and imbue the mind with gladness and joy - which we bring to our Meditation Practice.
Thus, rather than being a purely "religious" activity, Puja has a direct connection to our Meditation. As stated by the Buddha, selfless giving "adorns" and beautifies the mind, which assists us in our Meditation and progress on the Path.
Chanting, Dhamma Talk
Chanting
Chanting is a proven method to help quiet the mind, increase mindfulness and concentration, and connect more fully with the Triple Gem. When we engage in group chanting, we share a common aspiration of goodwill and a dedication to the wholesome, as well as remind ourselves of the qualities of the Buddha to which we aspire. This, in turn, inspires us and strengthens our Meditation Practice.
Classes during the week have simply an opening and closing chant, while chanting during Sunday Services are about fifteen minutes in duration, after which formal Meditation occurs.
Dhamma Talks
Dhamma Talks are not only a great way to learn about Buddhism in general, but they often concern a topic relevant to our Meditation Practice. As importantly, a Dhamma Talk can inspire one to practice more diligently and to reflect upon - and attempt to embody - the Dhamma Teachings of Loving-friendlines, Compassion, Unselfish Joy, and Equanimity.
After the Talk, there is an opportunity for questions, and/or a brief Discussion.