SAMADHI JOURNAL OF THE LONDON BUDDHIST VIHARA THE FIRST AND THE FOREMOST BUDDHIST VIHARA OF THE WESTERN WORLD ESTABLISHED IN 1926 BY THE

ISSUE No. 50, 51 & 52 MAY 2017-MAY 2018 B.E. 2561-62 ISSN 1368-1516 DIALOGUE IN

Ven. B. Seelawimala Nayaka Thera Head of the London Buddhist Vihara

ialogue is a very important done by scholars such as Thomas between two or more people, every- Dmeans of sharing knowledge William Rhys Davids, the founder one is supposed to listen to everyone and widening our understanding of of the , were called else. In other words, everyone has various views, opinions, theories “Dialogues of the Buddha”. This is an opportunity to have their say, as and teachings. Fundamentally, dia- significant because it stresses the im- everyone else listens. Those who logue lies at the heart of overcoming portance of dialogue in the Buddha's fail to listen block themselves from the darkness of ignorance. In today’s approach to spreading his teaching. learning. In the Buddha’s terms, one diverse society, which is sometimes who listens can spiritually elevate challenged by extremism, dialogue A hallmark of the Buddha's teach- themself. Otherwise one would re- is widely used to foster interfaith re- ing method, perhaps unique amongst main a ‘puthujjana’ or an average lationships and to build and sustain religious leaders, was that he was person. Some people believe that harmony, solidarity and peaceful not dogmatic. It was not his habit they do not need to listen to anyone co-existence. Just as it may be used to force an answer on his followers, else since they are able to acquire by people from different faiths, dia- insisting that he was right and the knowledge from books or other dif- logue may also be used for greater other person must be wrong. Instead, ferent sources. They contend that understanding and to heal differenc- he preferred to engage in dialogue through their own isolated analy- es by people within the same religion or discussion in order to win his au- sis a search for truth may be found. as well. dience over to a particular point of Knowledge may indeed be acquired view. The Buddha would use logic in this way, but engaging, listening The Buddha said in the Mangala and reasoning to justify what he had and interacting with others helps one Sutta "Kālena dhamma sakachcha" to say, so that people could see for overcome one’s own egocentricity that any opportune moment to hold a themselves the good sense of his which may otherwise be harmful to dialogue on the Dhamma is a bless- argument. The Buddha frequently oneself. Egocentricity breeds mere ing. engaged in dialogue, involving an knowledge. Knowledge in general exchange of ideas or opinions. His is bias, whereas wisdom means un- Dialogues are very common in the goal was to reach an amicable agree- biased knowledge. In listening, one Buddha’s teaching or in the Tripi- ment or settlement based on a mutual has one’s heart fully open to anoth- taka. Most modern translations of exchange of ideas, based on humility er’s words so that one’s egocentricity the Tripitaka into English are titled, and equanimity. may be calmed. Therefore, listening- “Discourses of the Buddha”, “Mid- based dialogue is the true dialogue. dle Length Discourses”, etc, the em- Hence in Buddhism a true dialogue It helps us transform ourselves into phasis being on the word discourse. is one which is founded on the what is called ‘spiritually noble’. In However, it is worth remembering principle of listening. In spiritual that many of the older translations, practice, when a dialogue occurs Continued on page 2

 Meeting the Divine Messengers INSIDE  Back to Basics  Courses for 2018 THIS ISSUE  A Noble Friend to Many  A-Z of Buddhism  Programmes and activities

1 1 ISSUE No. 48 & 49 SAMADHI MAY 2017-MAY 2018

Chief Executive: Ven. B. Seelawimala Nayaka Thera Editor: Ven. Tawalama Bandula

Continued from page 1 Lastly, there are questions that may Malunkyaputta a beautiful analogy. Buddha’s words, ‘assutavā puthuj- be put aside. It is sometimes asked He said it is ‘like a man who has jano, sutavā ariyasāvako’ - one who why the Buddha would not give a been hit in the arm by a poisoned ar- listens becomes ariyasāvaka or no- definite answer to some questions. row and he is brought to a surgeon, ble. Otherwise, one remains average but he refuses to have the arrow re- or puthujjana. There is a discourse called Upali moved until he knows whether the Sutta which is a very good example man who wounded him was a noble It is not easy to hold a discussion of a dialogue that uses the method warrior a brahmin, a merchant or a without a good understanding of of questioning and answering. The worker and so on and so forth’. The the subject. “How can wisdom be Buddha was living in Nalanda where point made by the Buddha was that understood? - Does a person have Nighanthanatha Putta too lived near- while the wounded man is asking all a good understanding or not?” The by. Then a Jain monk called Dhiga- these questions, he will be killed by Buddha’s advice was that dialogue tappassi, a disciple of Nighanthana- the poison. The most necessary and is the way to understand wisdom. tha putta visited the Buddha and had important thing is to remove the ar- sākacchāyam bhikkhawe paññā ve- an deep dialogue on the subject of row. Likewise, it is sometimes better ditabbo - dialogue is the way to ap- Kamma. The learned monk accord- to keep away from asking unneces- proach the wisdom of others. ing to Jainism had pointed out the sary questions and instead to focus word Danda which is equivalent to one’s life on overcoming suffering. Another technique to enhance un- Kamma in Buddhism. They asked derstanding and continue dialogue is many questions from each other and When we learn the Kalama Sutta through the process known as Ques- shared their points of view regarding - "the Buddha's Charter of Free In- tion and Answer. The Buddha had the concept of Kamma, discussing quiry," or Vimansaka sutta - the Bud- four ways of answering questions. the similarities and differences of dha gives the inquirer the freedom There were questions that may be their teachings. for questioning or inquiring. But that answered straightforwardly, with a freedom should focus on liberating yes or a no. For example, are all con- On some occasions the Buddha did our mind from Dukkha, or suffering, ditioned things impermanent? not answer the others questions; the as the main purpose of teaching. There are questions that may be Buddha kept the noble silence. Once answered with a qualified answer, the Buddha gave a reason for keep- Today there is a great enthusiasm perhaps needing some analysis. For ing this silence. in the interfaith movement for dia- example, how was it possible for logue. Discussions are also an essen- Angulimala to change from being a There was a dialogue between the tial part of the religious programmes murderer to being an Arahant? Buddha and Malunkyaputta. One of many faiths. It is indeed amazing day Malunkyaputta went to the that the methods used by the Buddha Then there are questions that may be Buddha to put ten questions to him. many centuries ago have survived answered with a counter-question. Among the ten questions were: and continue to be widely used even For example, the question: “Why is Is the universe eternal? today for sharing his wisdom and it wrong to steal from other people?” Is it not eternal? spreading his Dhamma to new and This can be answered by another Is the universe finite? and so on... old followers throughout the world. question: “Would you like other peo- ple to steal from you?” In fact, the Buddha went on to give

ture. Of being hindered by ignorance and fettered “If, Ananda, there were no Kamma ripening in an REBIRTH by craving their consciousness takes a hold in the immaterial sphere, would there appear any imma- lower sphere. Thus, there is, in the future, a re- terial becoming?” nce the venerable Ananda came to see the becoming, a rebirth. Blessed One and spoke to him thus: O “Surely not, O Lord.” “If, Ananda, there were no Kamma ripening in a “One speaks of ‘Becoming’, Lord. How is there fine material sphere, would there appear any fine- “Therefore, Ananda, Kamma is the field, con- Becoming? material becoming?” sciousness is the seed, and craving is the mois- ture. Of being hindered by ignorance and fettered “If Ananda, there were no Kamma (action) ripening “Surely not, O Lord.” by craving their consciousness takes a hold in a in the sphere of sense existence, would there ap- lofty spherehe. Thus, there is, in the future, a re- pear any sensual becoming? “Therefore, Ananda, Kamma is the field, con- becoming, a rebirth. Thus, Ananda, is there a sciousness is the seed, and craving is the mois- Becoming.” “Surely not, O Lord” ture. Of being hindered by ignorance and fettered by craving their consciousness takes a hold in an “Therefore, Ananda, Kamma is the field, con- intermediate sphere. Thus, there is, in the future, a sciousness is the seed, and craving is the mois- re-becoming, a rebirth.

2

MEETING THE DIVINE MESSENGERS

Bhikkhu Bodhi

he traditional legend of the thrusting themselves on our attention. Thereby they become windows TBuddha’s quest for enlightenment If the Dhamma is to be more than opening upon the first noble truth, tells us that throughout his youth and the bland, humdrum background of the noble truth of suffering, which the early manhood Prince Siddhattha, a comfortable life, if it is to become Buddha says comprises not only birth, the Bodhisatta, lived in complete the inspiring, sometimes harsh voice ageing, illness and death, not only ignorance of the most elementary that steers us on to the great path sorrow, grief, pain and misery, but facts of human life. His father, of awakening, we ourselves must all the “five aggregates of clinging” anxious to protect his sensitive son emulate the Bodhisatta in his process that make up our being-in-the-world. from exposure to suffering, kept him of maturation. We must join him on an unwitting captive of nescience. that journey outside the palace walls- When we meet the divine messengers Incarcerated in the splendour of his the walls of our own self-assuring at this level, they become catalysts palace, amply supplied with sensual preconceptions-and see for ourselves that can induce in us a profound pleasures and surrounded by merry the divine messengers we so often internal transformation. We realise friends, the prince did not entertain miss because our eyes are fixed on that because we are frail and even the faintest suspicion that life “more important things,” i.e. on our inescapably mortal we must make could offer anything other than an mundane preoccupations and goals. drastic changes in our existential endless succession of amusements priorities and personal values. Instead and festivities. It was only on that The Buddha says that there are few of letting our lives be consumed by fateful day in his twenty-ninth year, who are stirred by things that are truly transient trivia, by things that are when curiosity led him out beyond stirring, compared to those people, here today and gone tomorrow, we the palace walls, that he encountered far more numerous, who are not so must give weight to “what really the four “divine messengers” that stirred. The spurs to awakening press counts,” to aims and actions that were to change his destiny. The in on us from all sides, yet too often, will exert a lasting influence upon first three were an old man, a sick instead of acknowledging them, we our long-range destinies—upon man, and a corpse, which taught respond simply by putting on another our final destiny in this life, and him the shocking truths of old age, layer of clothes to protect ourselves upon our ultimate direction in the illness and death; the fourth was a from their sting. This statement is cycle of repeated birth and death. wandering ascetic, who revealed to not disproved even by the recent him the existence of a path whereby deluge of discussion and literature on Before such a revaluation takes place, all suffering can be fully transcended. ageing, life-threatening illnesses, and we generally live in a condition alternative approaches to death and that the Buddha describes by This charming story, which has dying. For open and honest awareness the term pamāda, negligence or nurtured the faith of Buddhists is still not sufficient for the divine heedlessness. Imagining ourselves through the centuries, enshrines at its messengers to get their message immortal, and the world our personal heart a profound psychological truth. across. In order for them to convey playground, we devote our energies In the language of myth it speaks to their message, the message that can to the accumulation of wealth, the us not merely of events that may have goad us on to the path to liberation, enjoyment of sensual pleasures, taken place centuries ago, but of a something more is needed. We must the achievement of status and the process of awakening through which confront ageing, illness, and death, not quest for fame and renown. The each of us must pass if the Dhamma simply as inescapable realities with remedy for heedlessness is the very is to come to life within ourselves. which we must somehow cope at the same quality that was aroused in Beneath the symbolic veneer of the practical level, but as envoys from the the Bodhisatta when he met the ancient legend we can see that Prince beyond, from the far shore, disclosing divine messengers in the streets of Siddhattha’s youthful sojourn in the new dimensions of meaning. Kapilavatthu. This quality, called in palace was not so different from the Pali saṃvega, is a sense of urgency, way in which most of us today pass This disclosure takes place at two an inner commotion or shock which our entire lives; often, sadly, until levels. First, to become divine does not allow us to rest content with it is too late to strike out in a new messengers, the facts of ageing, our habitual adjustment to the world. direction. Our homes may not be royal illness, and death must jolt us into an Instead it drives us on, out of our cosy palaces, and the wealth at our disposal awareness of the fragile, precarious palaces and into unfamiliar jungles, to may not approach anywhere near that nature of our normal day-to-day lives. work out with diligence an authentic of a North Indian rajah, but we share They must impress upon our minds the solution to our existential plight. with the young Prince Siddhattha a radical deficiency that runs through all blissful (and often wilful) oblivion our worldly concerns, extending to It is at this point that the second to stark realities that are constantly conditioned existence in its totality. Continued on page 4

2 3 Continued from page 3 house is ablaze. The final message unexpected metamorphosis. By our function of the divine messengers is other: an ebullient cry that there eyes, by subtle degrees, they change comes to prominence. For ageing, is a place of safety, an open field into another face—the face of the sickness, and death are not only beyond the flames, and a clear exit Buddha, with its serene smile of emblems of the unsatisfactory nature sign pointing the way of escape. triumph over the army of Māra, over of mundane existence but pointers the demons of Desire and Death. The to a deeper reality that lies beyond. If in this process of awakening we divine messengers point to what lies In the traditional legend the old must meet old age, sickness, and beyond the transient, to a dimension man, the sick man, and the corpse death face to face, that is because the of reality where there is no more are gods in disguise; they have been place of safety can be reached only ageing, no more sickness and no sent down to earth from the highest by honest confrontation with the more death. This is the goal and final heaven to awaken the Bodhisatta to stark truths about human existence. destination of the Buddhist path— his momentous mission, and once We cannot reach safety by pretending Nibbāna, the Un-ageing, the Un- they have delivered their message that the flames that engulf our home ailing, the Deathless. It is to direct us they resume their celestial forms. are nothing but bouquets of flowers: there that the divine messengers have The final word of the Dhamma is not we must see them as they are, as real appeared in our midst, and the good surrender, not an injunction to resign flames. When, however, we do look news of deliverance is their message. at the divine messengers squarely, ourselves stoically to old age, sickness PBS NL032, News letter 1st malling 1996 and death. This is the preliminary without embarrassment or fear, we message, the announcement that our will find that their faces undergo an

Most Venerable Professor Bellanwila Wimalratana Thero

Islamic Mawlawis and Hindu Kurukkals who ship, and as a consequence would meet felt it necessary to bring their own devotees quite often at the London Buddhist Vihara. and pay their last respects as well to the body When I was appointed as the Head of Lon- of Ven Wimalaratana Thera. This was a re- don Buddhist Vihara, the late Prof. WIma- flection of the deep appreciation and esteem laratana AnThera organised the first recep- that was held for Ven Wimalaratana Thera’s tion ceremony in my honour at the Bellanwila services towards fostering and developing Sri Rajamaha Viharaya. He was not only a loyal Lanka’s interfaith community and network. and devoted good friend, he also became a The cremation took place at the grounds of thoughtful and trusted spiritual mentor to me. Sri Jayawardenapura University which was n the morning of 3rd February I was awak- large enough to accommodate the huge Ven. Wimalaratana Thera was deputy incum- Iened by the extremely sad news of the gathering of the mourners, including the big- bent of Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya and tragic demise of Most Venerable Bellanwila gest assemblage of Buddhist monks that I President of the Bellanwila community foun- Wimalaratana Anunayaka Thera of Bel- had ever witnessed. The funeral service or- dation. He was Anunayaka Thera of Kotte Sri lanwila Rajamaha Viharaya. As we were ganisation committee had allocated space Kalyani Maha Sangha Sabha. He was a lec- longstanding friends, I immediately decided for two thousand five hundred monks, but turer and later a professor of Buddhist Stud- to depart to where I could pay my even this number of seats was not sufficient. ies at Sri Jayawardenapura University and by last respects and personally participate at his Bhante WImalaratana’s brother Most Ven Dr the time of his passing, he had already been funeral service. After arriving in , Bellanwila Dhammaratana Thera welcomed appointed Chancellor of the same university. the sense of mourning was apparent and the the congregation, which included Sri Lanka’s He also served as a visiting professor in Bud- whole area around Bellanwila, Boralesga- President, Mr Maithripala Sirisena and for- dhism at the University of London’s School of muwa, Dehiwela, Pilayandala, Jayawarde- mer President Mr Rajapaksa, who Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). napura and Pepiliyana was surrounded with both addressed the gathering. The funeral an overwhelming mass of yellow flags and ceremony was also addressed by Cardinal He was a great personality who could talk on banners as a mark of respect to the vener- Malcolm Ranjith. any national issue without fear and audienc- able thero. es would listen to his comments with great I still find it difficult to believe that Bhante respect as he was renowned for his impartial- Many hundreds of Monks were in attendance Wimalaratana has passed away. Professor ity. He was truly a great scholar of from every corner of the country to pay their Wimalaratana Anunayaka Thero had been a Buddhist teachings and the author of count- last respects to him. Everyone seemed to very long standing friend of the London Bud- less learned books. His departure from us be in a deep state of shock. Thousands of dhist Vihara. His close relationship with our is a great loss to interfaith relations, to the mourners had waited in long queues and had Viharaya had been initiated during the period whole Buddhist world in general and also to traveled long distances since early morning of the tenure of the previous Head Monk, Ven all Sri Lankans. to attend the funeral gathering on 8th Febru- Dr Vajiragnana Nayaka Thero, as they had ary. already been particularly close friends. Dur- May Most Ven. Prof. Bellanwila ing this period, Ven Dr Walpola Rahula, Ven Wimalratana Anunayaka Thero attain It is worth mentioning that it was not only Dr Mapalagama Wipulasara, Ven. WImalara- the supreme bliss of Nibbana. Buddhists, but also many religious leaders tana Thera together with Ven Dr Vajiranana, from other faiths such as Christian Bishops, had all developed a deep alliance and kin- Ven. B. Seelawimala Nayaka Thero

4

Continued from page 04

BACK TO BASICS Purification by Knowledge and Vision of the Path-progress Last issues we discussed the Seven (Patipada-nanadassana-visuddhi) Stages of Purifications. In this issue we give a brief introduction to the 4. Knowledge of Contemplation of reaches the threshold of Nibbana. sixth stage, the Purification by Danger (adinavanupassana-nana) His equanimity becomes stronger Knowldege and Vision of the Path- and more stable and in due course Progress. 5.Knowledge of Contemplation of he attains conformity knowledge, Disenchantment (nibbidhanupas- so called because it conforms to the After attaining the fifth stage, the sana-nana) eight kinds of preceding knowledge meditator continues his mindful- and on the other hand to the Noble ness of mental and physical phe- 6. Knowledge of Desire for Deliver- Path and the fulfilment of the thirty- nomena to attain the sixth stage. ance (muncitukamyata-nana) seven factors of enlightenment. (The This consists of eight kinds of thirty seven requisites of enlighten- knowledge which, when fully ma- 7. Knowledge of Contemplation of ment comprise: the four foundations tured, will lead to Knowledge in Reflection(patisankhanupassana- of mindfulness, the four right ende- Conformity with Truth, the ninth. nana) vours, the four bases of spiritual These are: power, the five spiritual faculties, 1. Knowledge of Contemplation of 8. Knowledge of Equanimity about the five spiritual powers, the seven Arising and Passing Away (udayb- Formations (Sankharupekkha-nana) enlightenment factors, and the eight bayabypassana-nana) noble path factors.) It is also the cul- Knowledge in Conformity with Truth mination of insight leading to the No- 2.Knowledge of Contemplation of or Conformity Knowledge (anuloma- ble Path. But technically speaking it Dissolution (bhanganupassana- nana) is also included in the purifica- the very last moment in the process. nana) tion as a ninth stage of knowledge. (For details see Ven. Matara Sri Nanaram a, The Seven Stages of Purifica- 3. Knowledge of Apparance as Ter- At the ninth stage the meditator tion and the insight Knowledges) ror (bhayatupatthana-nana)

NEW RESIDENT MONK CLASSES FOR THE

We are most happy to welcome Ven. Hokandara Pannavamsa, a new resi- YEAR 2018 dent monk to assist at the Vihara. He took up his position on 30th Decem- BUDDHISM ber 2017. He has been chosen by the Anagarika Dharmapala Trust in Sri FOR Lanka. BEGINNERS

Ven. Pannavamsa is a monk of Sri-Lankan origin, trained in the scholastic 8 meetings starting: and meditation traditions of Myanmar under great teachers of the Myan- Monday 24th September 2018, marese monastic order; The Most Ven. Nandamalabhivamsa, Ven Kumar- 7.00pm abhivamsa, Paauk Sayadawgyi and Panditarama Sayadawgyi. Venue: London Buddhist Vihara Ven. Pannavamsa has extensively taught Buddhist Psychology and con- Fees : Free (donations are welcome) ducted meditation retreats in a number of countries across and the Tutor : Mr Julian Wall west for over eight years. And has worked tirelessly in introducing Mind- How to join: Enrol at the class on first fulness and Buddhist Psychology as a therapeutic tool for tackling stress, day of attendance. depression, anger and mood management in Sri Lanka by founding the Mind Kraft Foundation which works in favour of traumatised and stressed *16th Annual Blood youth, prison inmates and the corporate sector of Sri Lanka. Donation* at Ven. Pannavamsa also continues to work in establishing Mindfulness The London Buddhist and Buddhist Psychology as a complementary, Integrative and Alterna- Vihara tive Medicine accepted by the Mental Health and Medical Council of Sri Lanka. Sunday 03 June 2018

Ven. Pannavamsa’s appointment as resident monk will greatly help for the 106 Volunteers donated blood. Vihara and the propagation of Buddha’s teaching in England. Thank you all.

We wish him every success in his Dhammaduta work. Save a life - give blood

4 5 Vesak Celebrations - 2017

On the 13th and 14th May 2017 Vesak celebrations were held at the Vihara. On 21st May, Children's Vesak Day, over 150 children observed eight precepts. On 22nd May, the programme started with hoisting the Buddhist flag by Mrs. Amari Wijewardena, the High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in the UK and lighting the oil lamp by representatives of the Vihara Management Committee. The guest speaker was Dr Steven Kemper Professor of Anthropology at Bates College, USA. Ajahn Ahinsako, Ven. Bandula, Ven. Kassapa and Ven. Padukke Pannawasa also gave sermons. At the end, the parents of the Dhamma School presented a programme of devotional songs. (Photo by Tissa Madawela)

Rahula Dhamma Day - 2017

Annual Sunday Dhamma School prize giving and Variey Show (Rahula Dhamma Day Programme) was held at the Vihara on 2nd April 2017. The Chief Guest was Mrs. Amari Wijewardena, H. E High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in the UK.

Founder's Day at the London Buddhist Vihara - 2017

To mark both 153rd birthday of Anagarika Dharmapala, founder of the London Buddhist Vihara and the 91st anniversary of the London Buddhist Vihara, a special religious programme was held at the Vihara on 16 & 17 September 2017.

This year the Dharmapala memorial lecture was delivered by Dr Elizabeth Harris, Honorary Senior Research Fellowship in the Edward Cadbury Centre for the Public Understanding of Religion, Birmingham University. A Bodhi Puja was held in the early evening which was followed by Paritta Chanting from 7.30 p.m. till midnight by members of the Sangha from many Sri Lankan Buddhist temples in the UK. On the following morning, Dana was offered to the Sangha and the merits were transferred to Anagarika Dharmapala and all those who

6

Visit of the Ajahn Bram Ven. Seelawimala meeting with the UN Secretry General

Venerable Seelawimala, the Head of the London Buddhist Vihara met the UN Secretary- General Antonio Guterre on 2nd in May at the Foreign and Com- monwealth office In London. Govt had organised a reception for the UN Sec- retary- General and UN Chief Executive Board. Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Mr.. Borris Johnson delivered the welcome speech.

Kathina Celebrations - 2017

Ajahn Brahmavamso, the Abbot of Bo- dhinyana Monastery, Western Australia visited the Vihara on 10th October 2017 and delivered a dhamma talk. Many devo- tees attended.

The Kathina Ceremony was held at the London Buddhist Vihara on Sunday, 29th October 2017, attended by many hundreds of devotees. The Kathina ceremony was sponsored by several devotee families with their friends. (Photos by Tissa Madawela) Visit of the President of Sri Lanka - 2018

HE the President of Sri Lanka Mr Maitripala Sirisena who was in London to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting 2018 visited the Vihara and took part in the oil anointing ceremony on the 16th April 2018. He was accompanied by first lady Mrs Jayan- thi Sirisena, Hon Minster of Transport and Civil Aviation Mr Nimal Siripala De Silva and Acting High Commissioner Mr. Sugeeshwara Gunaratne.(Photos by Tissa Madawela)

6 7 A noble friend to many

Richard Jones 1946 - 2018

ndoubtedly Richard was a beloved mem- however, and Richard was no exception. His of his interactions within them. As such Rich- Uber of the Vihara. He passed away on cousin, John Hardwick, recounts stories of ard will be sorely missed and may we temper the 2nd April 2018. His death confronts one Richard as a child. No one would doubt his our sorrow with gratitude for his association, with a type of reality that we are often spared obvious intelligence but apparently after his for we were fortunate indeed. As Laurie puts from. first day at school the second wasn’t neces- it, “our loss is one thing but the true miracle is sary, as he told his mother “I know it all now”! that we ever met in the first place”. His absence will be a great loss for all He was also a dab hand technically, with those who go to the Vihara or are touched Meccano being a favourite toy, along with Richard you were a true Kalyanamitra , a by the many good activities it participates in. Scalextrix, the scale model car racing game good energy that was always a pleasure to Richard’s association with the Vihara began (who would have guessed!). A passionate meet. many decades ago, and in the intervening curiosity would also have him getting the years, he was a central character in run- extended family to look down a microscope May you attain the eternal bliss of Nibanna. ning the famous Abhidamma course and the at the real-time changes of blue cheese! And By Sudatshu Ubayasiri Introduction to Buddhism course. He gave his humour, which could be quite cheeky, saw talks, readings and explained subtle points him embarrassing his father in front of fam- of Dhamma on numerous occasions. A close ily with the complexities of a lawn sweeper. friend, Sheena Napier, reflects on his clear Each of these qualities are instantly recognis- OBITUARY and patient teaching style through which able for all who knew and loved him, albeit he has introduced countless people to the transformed and matured through age and Dhamma and how many of his students be- wisdom! With heavy hearts and deep sorrow came his friends. He also acted as a central we announce the passing away of the point of reference to all things Vihara related, Growing up in Surrey, his lifelong fascina- following devotees:- supporting official correspondences and em- tion with East Africa began as a result of a bodying the spirit of the Buddha’s teachings, trip organised by his school in Uppingham Mrs Adeline Samarasekera all done in his uniquely characterful style with to teach at a school in Kenya prior to go- Mrs Jayanthi Abeysiriwardena its own subtle and unique wit. He always ing to University. Richard returned to Africa Mrs Nalini Dharmadasa Koralage seemed to have time for others; charitable to on many occasions after he graduated from Mr W D Somadasa those he knew and even those he didn’t. Cambridge having studied Archaeology and Mrs Beatrice De Silva Anthropology. He visited numerous wildlife Mr Amaradasa Jayawickrema He was particularly close to Ven. Seelawima- reserves where he indulged his fondness Mr J M Karunadasa la with whom he worked closely and for for birdlife and wildlife, especially elephants, Mrs Donna Margaret Wanigasekera whom Richard’s illness seemed particularly with particular concern to their preservation, Dr Suren Iyer difficult. His long standing friend Laurie Slade and indeed, he has even fostered many or- Mr Ranjith Perera recounts how important both the present and phaned elephants through the David Shel- Mr David Jarvis previous Head monk Ven. Dr. M Vajiragnana drick Wildlife Trust rescue centre in Kenya. Mr Brian Calleghan were to Richard. Richard was tutored by Ven. Here he also went on retreat and previously Mrs. Chandra Tennakoon Vajiragnana, gaining much knowledge of the worked for Kuoni, organising and managing Dr Gamini Nanayakkara Abhidhamma from him and even accompa- travel. His special mix of qualities saw him as Mrs Reeni De Silva nied the then Head monk on trips to Thailand a safe pair of hands when he had to evacuate Dr. Sumathi Gammanpila and Sri Lanka. Richard’s significance cannot tourists promptly out of an unstable Uganda Mrs Consy Jayasundera be overstated, Laurie describes how moved at the time of Idi Amin. It was also in Kenya Mrs Chadrani Karunadasa Richard was when Ven Seelawimala stated that he met his friend Laurie Slade at a Yoga Mr Harrison Cooray quite categorically and in light of Richards class. This sparked a great interest in east- Mrs Padmini Samaranayaka, ern philosophy that would burgeon into the failing health, “You are the responsibility of Mr Albert Munasinghe, current of Richard’s later life; his involvement the Vihara”, with the intention of assisting Mr Shanti De Silva Richard with whatever was needed. with Buddhism.

Individuals are often more dimensional than Certainly those who knew Richard will be car- May they all attain the facets encountered in spiritual contexts rying the echo of his being and the reflection the bliss of Nibbana!

8

AN A - Z Remembering Mrs Ari Dissanayake OF BUDDHISM

KĀMĀVACARA - ‘Sensuous Sphere’ Kama is either subjective sensual crav- ing or sensuous objects such as forms, sound, odour, taste and contact. here was a Mal Pahan Puja held at the Vi- her cultural projects. She worked tirelessly Thara on Sunday the 22nd of April 2018, in promoting Sri Lankan culture and arts. Some ‘Kama’ is also meant the eleven differ- memory of Mrs Ari Dissanayake, who passed of the events come to my mind are producing ent kinds of sentient existence – namely, away in Sri Lanka on the 21st April 2018. and staging of Hela Puwatha which was cap- the four state of misery, (Apaya) hu- Many of her long-time friends in the UK, Co- turing the history of Sri Lanka from the first man realm (Manussaloka), and the six- ordinators of the Vihara and the Past Pupils King Vijaya to the first Prime minister of Cey- celestial realms (Sagga). Avacara means Associations of Visakha UK came together to lon after Independence. Also were directing moves about or that which frequents. pay homage and passed on merits to some- and restaging of Nari Bana and Kamare Pore Kamavacara, therefore, means that one, who they loved and respected for many and of course, her own stage play written and which mostly moves about in the sen- years. The Head monk and the resident directed which was Anjali. Her influence was tient realm, or that which pertains to the monks took part in the Pansakula ceremony not just on the people of her own age but ex- senses and their corresponding objects. and spoke about Mrs Dissanayake’s dedi- tend on to a wide spectrum all ages. Through cation and commitment to the temple. The the many projects; with directing stage plays, KĀMESU-MICCHĀCĀRĀ: fund raising dinners, fashion shows, film Head Monk Ven, Seelawimala Thero spoke ‘Wrong of Evil Conduct with regard screening to raise funds for the temple and admiringly of her organisational skills and her to sensual things,’ ‘Unlawful Sexual for hospital projects in SL she left a great im- mammoth contribution to many of the past Intercourse’; refers to adultery, and in- pact on many she helped. And also through Vihara events, from Vesak to Poson to cel- tercourse with minors or other persons the many cultural and religious events she ebrations of some of the most significant and under guardianship. The abstaining from excelled her organisational skills and proved memorable past events in the Vihara history, this unlawful act is one of the 5 moral her leadership qualities. It was not just for her including the 75th Anniversary of the Vihara. rules binding upon all Buddhists. In his anusasana, Ven Seelawimala Thero but it was unfortunate for all of us, who knew her as a friend when she took ill almost 15 compared her dedication and commitment to This third precept is of great social im- years ago. It was like a dark cloud came over one of Buddha’s great devotees and the chief portance; in the first place it preserves our community then, and now last –the light benefactress, Visakha Maha Upasika. He the integrity of family life which is the is gone forever. May she attains the Supreme said for many years she acted as the main basic unit of human society, and in the Bliss of Nibbana! co-ordinator of the Vihara, who was also a second place it exercises control within By Pandula Ranatunga sincere friend and a great devotee of the Late reasonable limits over the libido. By ob- Head Monk Dr Medagama Vajiragnana Maha servance of this precept mankind would Thero and the resident monks. achieve that control over ones’ sexual appetite by which individual and social The patroness of the Visakha PPA UK, Mrs NO DEATH welfare can be gained. Laxmi de Soysa (MBE) also spoke of the WITHOUT BIRTH many of the great qualities which Ari pos- sessed and the great service she rendered to KAMMA: ‘Wholesome or unwhole- One day the Buddha advised Ananda. some action.’ her community and her Alma Mater. Mathaka Vastra was offered to the monk by Mrs Mala "If anybody should ask the ques- Polpitiya and Rukhi Shillam who represented The literal meaning of kamma is action. tion as to why death takes place, tell Buddhism briefly defines meritorious or Co-ordinators of the Vihara, friends and the them that death takes place because members of the Past Pupils of the Visakha demeritorious volition, cetana, as kam- of birth. If you try to prevent death ma. The Buddha said: “It is mental voli- PPA UK. For many of them, she was known by force, then you do not under- as just Ari. Her effervescent and magnetic tion, O monks, that I call kamma. Hav- stand the nature. You are in fact ing willed, one acts through body, speech personality left a lasting memory on those going against the laws of nature." who came in to touch with her. In my own and mind.” recollection of her, she was an inspirational The setting sun in one country be- Where there is no consciousness, such as figure and leaves me with many wonderful comes the rising sun in another memories. in inanimate objects, there is no kamma, country. So a setting sun is not the nor is any action kamma which is unin- end of the sun. In the same manner, tentional. Kamma is not merely the af- I was fortunate to have known her and for- death itself is not the end of a life. ever grateful to her for giving me the chance fair of external or visible deeds, it is the to work with her in many of her cultural and motive or volition involved in thinking, Death is the beginning of a speaking or acting. fundraising projects. She played somewhat life. Birth brings the death cer- an iconic role in our Sri Lankan diaspora tificate. So if we want to avoid in the UK and furthermore without taking a death, we must prevent birth. formal position, she acted as a great cultural ambassador for Sri Lanka through many of

8 9 11 Special Buddha puja opening ceremony after re- VIHARA ACTIVITIES - 2017-18 gilding the Buddha statues with gold leaves in the Shrine room. VS = Ven. Seelawimala. VB = Ven. Bandula. VK = Ven. Kassapa 11 Dammasavana- Sinhala sermon given by Ven. VA = Ven. Ariyarathana. VP= Ven. Pannavansa Mapalagama Vajira. 12 VS attended the Remembrance Sunday Day obser- June.2017 27 The Buddhist Forum , monthly programme vance at the Cenotaph 4 Blood Donation Project 96 people donated Blood 31 Special Coordinators meeting. 14 VA visited Wood End Academy Junior School in 5 Buddhism for beginners 8 weeks course started by Richard Jones. September 18 VA gave a talk and represented the panel discussion 11 Poson Programme - Sunday Dhamma School had 4 "Buddhism for Beginners" 8 week course by VP at the LBV Interfaith event sponsored dana and at the end of the Day Bhakti gee. 5 VS attended the Interfaith Network UK meeting. 18 Interfaith meeting at LBV. Chief Guest was Dr 12 North Primary School Visit Talk by VK 8 VP gave a talk at the LBV Harriet Crabtree, director of Interfaith Network. Religious 13 North Ealing Primary School Visit talk by Richard 15 VP gave a talk at the LBV representatives gave talks and there was a combined Jones 16-17 153rd Anniversary of Anagarika Dharmapala the children's programme with Sunday schools of LBV and St 15 North Ealing School Visit talk by VA founder of LBV celebrated. The memorial speech was Michael Church. 16 Service for Grenfell Tower Fire at St Peter's Notting delivered by Prof. Elizabeth Harris. There were 25 monks 19 VB left for Sri Lanka for his annual leave. Hill Church,VS attended from the Viharas in the UK attending for the chanting cer- 23 VS visited Shepherds Bush Community School. 18 Special Puja held at LBV for the victims of Grenfell emony and on the following morning Dana was offered 25 Annual fund-raising dinner at the LBV organised by tower fire disaster, to the monks and the transference of merit to Anagarika the teachers and parent of the Sunday Dhamma School. 23 Southwark Cathedral service for the victims of the Dharmapala and Mary Foster was performed. Raised over £4000.00 for the Vihara. terrorist attack at London Bridge VS attended. 22 VS & VB attended the 50th anniversary of Ven. Prof. 24 Monthly Retreat Taken By VS Handupelpola Punnaratana Thera at Kingsbury Sri Sad- December 30 Coordinators meeting and meeting with the teachers dhatissa Vihara. 3 Day Programme. Sister Bodhipala and and parents of the Sunday Dhamma School by VB 22 VS & VB conducted the funeral service for Mr WD Sister Khemaka from Amarawathi Monastery, Ven. Somadasa a former Librarian at Peradeniya University, at Ariyaratana/ Ven Seelawimala / Dr Sumana Perera. July Hendon Crematorium. Dana was sponsored by Heenbanda Family. 1 Interfaith Walk from Hounslow to the LBV . This event 28 Buddhist Philosophy and Abhidhamma, 10 weeks 5 LBV donated food and other material items to the was organised by Hounslow friends of faith organisation course by Richard Jones. Homeless centre at Acton for Christmas. Pat, Sheena representatives of all religions. VS gave a talk. 29 Intermediate Buddhism class 8 week course by and Sudharma coordinated the event. 2 VS and VB attended the 70th birthday ceremony of Richard Jones 5 VS attended Buckingham Palace for the annual Ven. Galayaye Piyadassi Thera at the Kingsbury Sri 30 Saturday Retreat VS reception. Saddhatissa Buddhist Centre. 28 VA gave a talk to a group of students from Weedule 10 Dhammasavan Sinhalese sermon BY VA 3 VS Attended Westminster Abbey for the Summer Party High School. 12 VK returned to LBV after attending a funeral service meeting. for his teacher in SL. 4 Gorden School Visit Talk by VA October 16 VA gave the memorial sermon to mark 14th anniver- 5 VS attended the AGM of Interfaith Network in the UK at 10 Ajahn Brahmavamso Dhamma talk sary of Ven Gangodavila Soma Thera. Elisabeth II Conference Hall Westminster. 14 Dhammasawana monthly Dhamma Sermon VA 17 Memorial service for commemorate the former head 6 Three Bridges School Visited VA gave a talk. 10 Funeral Service for the late Mr J.M. Karunadasa at the monk Dr Medagama Vajiragnana. 9 Esala Celebration. Key note speech was given by Breakspear Crematorium. The service was conducted 21 VS conducted the funeral service for Dr Sumathi Mr Richard Jones. All the monks contributed for the full by VS/VB Gammanpila at the residence of Maidstone. day programme. Devotees invite the monks to observe 8 Kathina Ceremony Eastham Buddhist Cultural Centre 22 Friday Special blessing ceremony for Richard as he Vassana Retreat. VS/ VB was admitted Charring Cross hospital. 15 VB and VK attended the annual Pirith Chanting 14 British Sri Lanka Association award ceremony VS was 29 VB returned to LBV after his holiday period ceremony at the Thames Buddhist Vihara awarded outstanding service for Interfaith movement 30 VB attended memorial service for Ven. Habarakada 15 Dhammasavana Sinhala Sermon given by Ven. in UK.. Indaratana Nayaka Thera at Geneva International Bud- Galayaye Dhammadassi Thera. 15 VS attended Kathina Ceremony at Redbridge Vihara. dhist Vihara 21 VS, VB and VK attended the funeral service for 15 VB/VA attended Kathina Ceremony Letchworth Bud- 30 Ven Hokandara Pannawamsa came to LBV as a late Mrs Jayanthi Abeysiriwardena at Putney Vale dhist Vihara. resident monk. Crematorium. 17. Funeral Service for Mrs Beatrice De Silva at Kensal 23 OM DAY, Indogenic religious event at the LBV Green Crematorium Service was conducted by VS/VK January 2018 Organized by London Sevasram Sangha. Sikh Jain and 17 & 18 School Visit to Ravenscourt Park Preparatory 1 New year Blessing ceremony Buddhist communities in Hounslow Hammersmith and School VA 6 VS conducted the funeral service for Mrs. Chandra Shepherd's Bush participated VS gave a talk. 20 Funeral of the Mr. Karunarathna Nawalage VA/VK Tennakoon 24 VB and VK attended the funeral for the late Mrs Nalini 21 Kathina Ceremony Letchworth Dhammanikethanaya 10 'Buddhist for Beginners' course by Julian Wall Koralage at Enfield Crematorium. attended VB/ VK 20 Dhammasavana sinhala Sermon by VS 27 Memorial Dana Organised by Coordinators to com- 22 Kathina Ceremony - Nottingham Shanthi Vihara.VA 27 Monthly meditation retreat by VS. memorate the late Charles, Shirly and other departed 22 Kathina Ceremony at Sambodhi Vihara attended 29/30/31 School Visits three groups from Isleworth Town coordinators. VS/ VK School by VA 28 Monthly Coordinators meeting. 25 Funeral service for Dr. Suren Iyer, North East Surrey 29th Monthly Retreat Crematorium, Morden, VS/VB/VA attended. February 30 Yourth Adults, New Programme conducted by VP. 26 Funeral Service for Mr Amaradasa Jayawickrema New 1 Isleworth Town Primary School VA gave a talk 30 Buddhist Forum all the resident monks contributed South Gate Crematorium. Conducted by VS/VB 3 Navampoya full day Programme. the the Dhamma discussion. 28 Monthly Retreat VS 3 Monthly English Dhamma Talk by Dr Upali Abeysiri 28 Kathina Ceremony - Samadhi Meditation Centre 4 VS attended the ceremony of 70th anniversary of Sri August Edmonton VB/ VA/ VK Lanka Independence Day Programme at the Sri Lanka 4, 11,18 &25 VPa conducted a course of for meditation 29 Kathina Ceremony - London Buddhist Vihara High Commission techniques. 4 VS left to Sri Lanka for the funeral service of most Ven. 5 Monthly English hamma Talk by Ven. Hokandara November Bellanvila Wimalaratana Thera . Pannavamsa. 2 VS attended the funeral service for Mr Ranjith Perera 6 VS participated at the ADT meeting 9 VS attended the Theravada Buddhist Sangha meeting at Forest Gate crematorium East London. 6. VB & VK attended the funeral service for Mr Loy Fat at Buddhapadeepa temple at Wimbledon. 4 Monthly English Dhamma talk given by Mr Madawala Wang at Mortlake cemetery. 9 VA & VK attended the opening ceremony of an exhibi- Hemananda on “We are our minds not our brains” 7 VB & VA attended the funeral service for Dr Gamini tion of Amaravati Buddhist ruins at British Museum. 5 VB gave a sermon at Kingbury Sri Saddhatissa Vihara. Nanayakkra at Oxford Crematorium 13 VS attended the opening of a New Stupa Ceremony at 8 VS conducted the funeral service for Mrs Renee De 8. VS attend the funeral Service for Bellanvila Wimalara- Sambodhi Vihara ,Plastow. Silva at Maidstone crematorium. tana Thera, and returned 20th. 14,15,16,17,19,22,23. Ven. Tittagalle Anandasiri from Sri 9 VS attended Interfaith Network meeting. 10 VS visited Mahanayaka Thera at Malwatta Viharaya Lanka gave a series of Dhamma talks 9 VK left for Sri Lanka to participate in his teacher’s Kandy 19 Monthly Sinhala Sermon was given by Ven. Tittagalle funeral at Pothuhera. 10 VA & VK attended the annual Pirith Chanting Cer- Anandasiri 10 Ven Bambalapitiye Gnanaloka Thera gave a talk on emony at Saddhatissa .Centre Kingsbury “Buddhist Discussion on Mindfulness” 21-25 VS joined a retreat at Amaravati Monastery. Continued on page 11

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Continued from page 10 DHAMMA SAVANA SINHALA SERMON - 2017 11 Memorial Service held for Most Ven. Bellanvila Wimalaratana Thera In 2017 the Vihara organised a monthly Sinhala sermon programme for the benefit of the dayakas 17 Dhammasavana Sinhalese Sermon by VB. and dayikas who wanted to listen to the Dhamma in Sinhala language. This was appreciated by 21, 22 & 23 Stand on the Green Junior School Visited many. VA gave talks. 22 VB left to Sri Lanka for the annual Dana ceremony in memory of mother and returned on 28th. 21 January Ven. B. Seelawimala Nayaka Thera 23 Coordinators meeting 18 February Ven. T. Bandula 24 Monthly Retreat by VS 18 March Ven. Pannala Gnanaloka Thera, Sri Lanka 28 VS attended the founding meeting of Buddhist - Chris- tian Dialogue at Heythrop College. 15 April Ven. H. Pannavanso 20 May Ven. Madugalle Mahanama, Sambodhi Vihara, Upton Park March. 17 June Ven. Sooriyagoda Siridhamma Nayaka Thera, Sri Lanka 3 Monthly English Dhamma talk given By Dr Amali Lokugamage 15 July Ven. Galayaye Dhammadassi, Sri Saddhatissa Buddhist Vihara 6 VK visited Petworth Primary School West Sussex 14 October Ven. K Ariyaratana 7 VA left to Sri Lanka for medical treatments 11 November Ven. Mapalagama Vajira 10 Meditation Class by Dr Sumana Perera 10 Dhammasavana Sinhala sermon given by Wellagiriye 09 December Ven. K. Ariyaratana Sumangala Thera, the Head of Madanwala Rajamaha Viharaya Hanguranketa. 2018 12 VS attended Commonwealth Day Ceremony at West- minster Abbey with the participation of the Royal Family. 20 January Ven. B. Seelawimala Nayaka Thera 14 VK attended the Theravada Buddhist Sangha UK 17 February Ven. T. Bandula meeting at Amaravati Monastery Hemel Hempstead. 10 March Ven. Wellagiriye Sumangala Thera, Sri Lanka 14 VS participated at the Annual board of Chaplaincy Service Heathrow Airport. 21 April Ven. Aluthgamgoda Gnanaweera Thera, Sri Lanka 15 VS attended the Interfaith Network monthly Meeting 22 VB conducted a funeral Service for Mr Cooray at Gravesend. VISITORS TO THE VIHARA - 2017 & 2018 25 Rahula Dhamma Day Annual prize Giving Ceremony and Variety Show. Mrs Amari Wijewardena the High Most Ven Napana Pemasiri Mahanayaka Thera of Srilanka Ramannya Nikaya Commissioner was the Chief Guest. Most Ven. Warakagoda Sri Gnanaratana Mahanayaka Thera, Syamopali Mahnikaya Asgiriya 26 Southfield Primary School Visited VK gave a talk Chapter. 27 VB conducted a funeral service for Mrs Padmini Mosr Ven. Dr Buu Chank Thero Phuoc Son Theravada Monastary Bien Hoa City Vietnam . Samaranayaka at Streatham Crematorium. Ven. Dhiravamso from Navaneliya Kuti Balangoda Srilanka 31Bak Poya Sil Programme combine with Monthly retreat Ven. Vimokkho Piphaliavanarama Temple Bankai Thailand 31 Babaji’s 65th Parliament of World Religions. Yoga and Ven. Dr. Nagoda Amaravamsa Nayaka Thera, The Principal, Sri Lanka Vidyalaya Maha Piriven, Holistic Medicine New Malden Talk by VP Colombo April Ven. Haliela Wimalaratana, International Buddhist Foundation Geneva 12 VP conducted a special Retreat “Mindfulness even- Ven. Dunuwila Metteyya, Hamilton Buddhist Vihara . New Zealand ing.” Abbot Ajahn Amaro and 10 monks from Amaravathi monastery on their annual visit. 14 Monthly meditation by Dr. Sumana Perera Ajahn Sucitto and Ajahn Karuniko, the abbot of Cittaviveka Buddhist Monastery. 16 The Hon. Maithripala Sirisena and Mrs Jayanthi Tiththadhammo from Germany. Sirisena with the family visited the Vihara for the oil Ven. Baddegama Sirirathana, Sri Lanka anointment ceremony. Ven Nugegoda Gunananda, Sri Lanka 19 VS attended the head of the Commonwealth Coun- Ven. Haputale Panngarama, Sri Lanka tries reception at Buckingham Palace. Ven. Metiviliye Dhammananda, Sri Lanka 21 VB attended Funeral service for Mr Albert Munasin- Mr Chandraprema Gamage Secretary Ministry of Buddha Sasana Srilanka. ghe, Hanworth Crematorium, Hounslow Miss Sian Toogood and Mr Nick Harris from British Museum London. 21 Day retreat conducted by Ven. Aluthgangoda Gnana- Faith Representatives of Hounslow Borough including Bassie White, Mr Ajith Singh weera Thera. Mr Sunil Handunnetti, MP Sri Lanka. 21 Dhammasavana sinhala sermon by Ven. Aluthgan- Hindu Sikh and Jain religious representatives including Swami Nirliptananda goda Gnanaweera 22 Memorial Service for the late Mrs. Ari Dissanayaka. Dr Elizabeth Harris,Senior lecturer at the Hope University Liverpool. 24 VB conducted the funeral service for Mr. Shanti De Dr Desmond Biddulph, the chairman of the Buddhist Society Silva at Lambeth Crematorium, Tooting Mr Ratnasri Wijesingha from SL 25 Richard Jones Funeral at Mortlake Crematorium. Mr Darshaka Ruwan Dissanayaka from SL 26 Abhidhamma series conducted by VP Mr R H.S Samaratunga Secretary of Treasury , Colombo SL 27 Coordinators Meeting. Mr C.L. Wickremasinghe, Colombo 3 28 Meditation Retreat by VS Dr Harriet Crabtree 30 'Buddhism for beginners’ 8 weeks course started by Swami Nirliptananda Julian Wall. Mr Ajith Sing, MBE Dr Akram Mahamadu CLASSES FOR THE YEAR 2018 Mr Chris Turner, representative of Lord Bourne ,Minister of faith communities. Lt Gen. Mahesh Senanayaka , Commander of Army in Sri Lanka.

PALI MADE EASY January 2018

Pali Language Classs Professor Michael Roberts ,Adelaide Australia. Ven Rajawelle Subhuti Hospital Service, Vipassasi Centre Colombo. Tuesdays Ven. Wellagiriye Sumangala, Head of Madanwala Rajamaha Viharaya, Hanguranketa. H. E. Mr Maitripala Sirisena, President of Sri Lanka and Mrs Jayanthi Sirisena 5.30-6.30pm Mr Nimal Siripala De Silva, Minister of Civil Aviation, Government of Sri Lanka Mrs Yaa Asantewaa ii Queen Mother Ghana Tutor: Ven. K. Kassapa

10 11  2018 2018 LONDON BUDDHIST VIHARA Dharmapala Building (FULL MOON) CALENDAR OF EVENTS The Avenue POYA DAYS London W4 1UD Feb 03 Navam Full Moon Day Tel: 020 8995 9493 January  02 e-mail: January  31 March 25 Rahula Dhamma Day [email protected] [email protected] March  02 May 27 VESAK - Buddha Day website March  31 www.londonbuddhistvihara.org June 03 Blood donation Session April  30 SRI LANKA - Head office Anagarika Dharmapala Trust May  29 July 01 POSON 130 Pujya Hikkaduwe Sri June  28 Sumangala Nahimi Mawatha July 29 ESALA - Dhamma Day Colombo - 10 Sri Lanka July  28

AFFILIATED CENTRES: August  26 Sept. 15 FOUNDER’S DAY  INDIA - CALCUTTA September 25 Nov. 04 KATHINA of India October  22 4-A Bankim Chatterjee Street Kolkata - 700073, India November  23 Dec. 23 SANGHAMITTA DAY

BUDDHA GAYA December  22 Maha Bodhi Society, Buddha Gaya WEEKLY EVENTS Gaya, Bihar Sundays 1.45-3.00pm Children’s Dhamma Classes SARNATH 3.30-4.15pm Children’s Sinhala Classes Maha Bodhi Society 5.00-6.00pm SUNDAY PUJA (Sermon and Pirith chanting) Mulagandhakuti Vihara Sarnath, Varanasi, UP Mondays 7.00-9.00pm Introduction to Buddhism (Eight-week course, repeated through the year) NEW DELHI Maha Bodhi Society Buddha Vihara, Tuesdays 5.30-6.30pm Pali Language Classs Mandir Marg, 7.00-8.30pm Advanced Buddhist Doctrine Class New Delhi - 110 001 Wednesdays 7.00-8.30pm Meditation: Instruction & Practice MADRAS Maha Bodhi Society Thursdays 7.00-9.00pm Theravada Buddhism 17 Kennet Lane Egmore, Madras - 8 Saturdays 1.30-8.00pm Monthly meditation retreat (Last Saturday of every month except August & December) SANCHI Chetiyagiri Vihara Maha Bodhi Society PUNYANUMODANA Sanchi, Bhopal - MP Ven. B. Seelawimala, Head of the Vihara, wishes to express his sincere BHUBANESHWAR gratitude to all Co-ordinators and supporters for their help in making the Buddha Vihara, Plot 4 Unit 9 Vihara's wide programme of activities a success. Bhubaneshwar, Orissa May you all be well and happy.

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