The vassa, or rains retreat, is an annual three-month period of monastic retreat which has been observed since the time of the Buddha. Traditionally, monks and nuns remain in one place during this time, taking the opportunity to deepen and strengthen their practice.
We are honoured to have 6 monks in residence with us until November 23rd, 3 of whom (Ajahn Sosawan, Ajahn Dhammadharo and Venerable Yort) we are welcoming back from last year. Work is already underway on a new kuti and everybody is basking again in the presence of the monastic sangha. Each day, Luang Por Sangah is available to meet people after the meal and also usually offers teachings after the evening puja.
There will be several additions to our program for the duration of the vassa, which are as follows:
The new daily schedule will now be:
05:00 Morning puja
07:00 Meditation
10:30 Meal
19:00 Evening puja
Our regular Wednesday evenings will continue, with Luang Por Sangah kindly offering a dhamma talk each week. The evening begins as usual at 8pm.
Monthly events (beginners’ workshop, mindfulness for children and community work day), as well as our Thursday evenings, will all continue as normal, with information available on the website.
In addition, the senior monks will be teaching a weekend retreat in the middle of October.
The monks will be going on alms round 5 days a week, Monday, Thursday and Friday in Limerick, Tuesday and Wednesday in Ennis. They will be at the pavilion in People’s Park in Limerick at 9am, and at Wood Quay next to the river in Ennis at the same time.
This represents a unique opportunity for people to sample Buddhist monastery life here in Ireland. If you have any queries please email us at the usual address. We hope that you’ll be able to visit us during this auspicious time.