From the Abbot

"Precept # 24:   I vow to support life by behaving in a way that respects the environment as well as all beings and to refrain from activities that may cause harm."

This is one of the 58 precepts I took when I became a Pūjārī (Priest). In my personal practice I have added renewing these vows once a week. By doing this I feel it has given me a better understanding of my role as a Pūjārī in serving the Sangha and working in the community. I will do my best to keep the precepts.

I would like to share an excerpt from an article by Thich Nhat Hanh that I read a few days ago:

"In order to protect the environment we must protect ourselves. We protect ourselves by opposing selfishness with generosity, ignorance with wisdom and hatred with loving kindness. Selflessness, mindfulness, compassion and wisdom are the essence of Buddhism. We train in Buddhist meditation which enables us to be aware of the effects of our actions, including those destructive to our environment. Mindfulness and clear comprehension are at the heart of Buddhist meditation. Peace is realized when we are mindful of each and every step."