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2003 AD ( 2547 BE ) ACTIVITIES


 
    

  
       

    NovemberDecember 
    
 

    


     






     


       
 
     
     November 2003
     
     

    DATEVENUEACTIVITIES
     


    Nov 02Vipassana  Meditation  Centre  ( Singapore )
    Kathina Robe Offering

    
VMC will he holding its Kathina Robe Offering on : 

    
Date : Sunday, 02 November 2003 
    
Venue : Vipassana Meditation Centre (S'pore)
    
No 1 Paya Lebar Walk . S'pore 535926

    
Kathina marks the end of the rains retreat (Vassa). On this occasion, lay devotees come together to offer robes to the community of monks (Sangha) who have spent the vassa at a particular monastery, meditation center or some other dwelling place. The offering of the Kathina robe started during the time of the Buddha. After observing the three months rains retreat, some monks were on their way to the monastery at Savatthi where the Buddha was staying. They were drenched and soaked to the skin by a heavy downpour when they reached the destination. Taking into consideration their condition, the Buddha prescribed that a "Kathina" ceremony to be performed by monks when they have completed their rains retreat. 

    
It is the custom of Theravada Buddhists to participate in the ceremony with the offerings of robes and/or other requisites. The distribution of the robes received by the monks from the lay devotees are entirely a matter of the Sangha members. The "Kathina" ceremony promotes the interdependency between the Sangha and the laity. The offerings, made through the devotees' natural desire to support the Sangha, is an important merit-making event for Theravada Buddhists.

    
Do bring along your friends and family. All are welcome !

    
Progeramme

    
8: 45 am : Arrival of Invited Monks
    
9:05am : Speech by VMC President
    
9:10am : Administrating of 5 Percepts 
& Paritta Chanting 
    
9:15am : Offering of Kathina Robes and
Requisites
    
9:40am : Presentation of Gift to Main 
Sponsors
    
9:50am : Dhamma Talk
    
11:00am : Lunch Dana to Monks
    
11:30am : Lunch for devotees
    


    All are welcome
    

    Nov 07
    to
    Nov 28
    7.30pm
    to
    9.30pm    		Awareness Place Meditation Centre
    Meditation Appreciation Course

    
This is a month long meditation appreciation class (4 lessons) held at APMC (Awareness Place Meditation Centre). It is continually repeated due to overwhelming response from the public. Lessons covered include:


    
Lesson 1: How to Take Care of Your Mind
     
Lesson 2: Who are You?
     
Lesson 3: Practice in Daily Life 
    
Lesson 4: Development of the Path 

    
Contents @ a Glance:
    	

  • Definitions of Evil, Good & Pure 
  •  What are the Five Aggregates? 
  •  How to Practice in Daily Life 
  • Practising the Four Sublime States 
  • Eleven Benefits of Loving Kindness  
  • Eight Worldly Conditions  
  • Meditation Instructions  
  • Meditation on Loving-Kindness  
  • Meditation on Impurities of the Body  
  • Concentration Meditation Insight Meditation	

    
Find out more details  about MAC	
The course is conducted by Brother Richard (Vajiro) Chia, who is an experienced Dharma teacher who had taught hundreds of students. He is well known for his ability to bring the Dharma across in layman terms using everyday life examples. He is also a very skillful meditation teacher, able to give detailed meditation instructions and troubleshoot intricate meditation mistakes.

     
Awareness Place Meditation Centre  
         
email: apmcbbc@singnet.com.sg
    
Block 231, #03-39 Bras Basah Complex 
    
Singapore 180231
    
(walking distance from Bugis or City Hall MRT). 
    
-

    All are welcome
    • 

    Nov 09Buddhist Cultural Centre
    Talk on Human Relations by Dr.Ang Beng Choo

    
Speaker       : Dr Ang Beng Choo 

    
Date          : 9 /11 /2003

    
Time          : 1.30p.m - 3 p.m

    
Venue
    
Level 7 @ Yen Pei Building
    
Singapore Buddhist Cultural Centre,
    
105 Punggol Road , Singapore 546636

    
Admission is free. All are welcome .

    
Speaker's Profile

    
Dr Ang obtained a BA (Hons) degree from the University of Singapore, MA degree from the University of Hawaii and PhD degree from the National University of Singapore. Dr Ang worked with the Ministry of Education for more than 30 years. She has been a schoolteacher, a school inspector, a curriculum developer and a teacher trainer. She was awarded the Public Administration (Bronze) and Long Service Medals by the Singapore Government in 1980 and 1997 respectively. 

    
Dr Ang is a practising Buddhist. She is the Deputy Director of Singapore Buddhist Federation Public Relations Unit, patron of Buddhist Fellowship, National University of Singapore Buddhist Society, Nanyang Technological University Buddhist Society, adviser to Nanyang Polytechnic Buddhist Society and many other posts outside 
Buddhist circle. such as solemniser and a deputy registrar for marraige. She is also a well-known speaker and a creative writer. She was awarded the International Outstanding Buddhist Woman Award in Education and Culture by Buddha Light International Association in 1998.

    


    All are welcome
    


    Nov 08Buddhist Library
    Dropping Flowers in a Still Pool
    A One Day Meditation Workshop

    

    A One Day Meditation Workshop to be Conducted by Dharmacari Dharmadhara

    
Dharmacari Dharmadhara is an experienced Dhamma teacher based in New Zealand who has been an ordained member of the Western Buddhist Order for nearly 25 years. He is also a practising doctor working in general practice in NZ. He now visits SE Asia on a regular basis as well. He has found on previous visits to SE Asia that people struggling with the metta practice can quickly become inspired by it - simply by going back to basics in a fresh way. He will be discussing what metta is in our lives, and how important it is for Dhamma practice and world peace. He will look at how to find metta within our present experience and how to go on from there, rather than setting our sights too high - and missing. 

    
This one-day retreat will begin at 8am on November 8 (Sat) and end at 6pm. The registration fee for this retreat will be $60 inclusive of lunch.

    
More details and registration form 


    All are welcome
    

    Nov 09Buddhist Library
    A Dharma Talk: Scenes from the Buddha's Life

    
By Dharmacari Dharmadhara

    
After the usual Sunday puja on November 9, Dharmadhara will discuss and explore some valuable but little known tales from the early Pali Canon. This will bring you closer to the historical Buddha. You will glimpse the Buddha 'live' teaching the Dharma though these Pali stories.

    
Stories include:

    

  • Shrek meets the Buddha - but gets more than he bargained for...

  • Five hundred rowdy monks finally get the message

  •  A nun conquers her fears - and gains Insight 


    All are welcome
    • 

    Nov 15
    to
    Nov 23    		Shan You Counselling Centre
    
Appeal for 400 Volunteers

    
~ SINGAPORE  BUSKERS' FESTIVAL 2003

    
Shan You is pleased to be selected to be part of the Singapore Busker's Festival 2003 to raise funds for the Centre. The renowned Singapore Buskers' Festival features top international street performers providing 9 days of fun-filled street entertainment to the Singaporeans and foreign visitors. 


    
 

As the performers will pitch for donations at the end of each performance and the proceeds will be divided among Tanjong Pagar Family Service Centre (FSC), Care Corner FSC and Shan You.  


    
 

We are seeking volunteers to be deployed at each venue to approach the audience for donations at the end of each performance. Date and time as follows:


    
Date: 15 - 23 November 2003 (Mon to Sun)
    

Time:  6.00pm to 10.30pm
    

Meeting Venue: 1) Orchard  or 2) Clarke Quay  

    

 

Date:  17 - 21 November 2003 (Mon to Fri)
    

Time:  12.00pm to 2.00pm
    

Meeting Venue:  UE Square

    

 

P/S: There is no dress code and note that identification tags will be given to all volunteers. There will be a briefing at 6pm & 12pm sharp.


    
 

If you are free at the above time slots and you would like to volunteer, please give Hwee Li, Shan You Counselling Centre a call at Tel: 6741 9293 or email: hweeli@shanyou.org.sg. Do bring your family and friends along to watch these awards winning performances and have lots of fun!


     
Tan Hwee Li  (Ms)
    
Manager
    
Gen Admin & Corp Affairs
    
Tel: 6741 9293 Fax: 6741 9352
    
Blk 9 Upper Boon Keng Road
    
#01-960 S(380009)
    
http://www.shanyou.org.sg 
    



    All are welcome
    

    Nov 19
    to
    25    		Main organiser: the Charitable Assistance Society
    


    
Public Dharma Talks & Workshop 

    
by Venerable Thubten Chodron

    
19 - 25 Nov 2003

    
(Main organiser: the Charitable Assistance Society)

    

    
Biography of Ven. Thubten Chodron

    
Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron graduated with a B.A. in History from U.C.L.A. in 1971, did graduate 
work in Education at U.S.C., and taught in the Los Angeles City School District. Ordained as a Buddhist nun in 1977, she studied and practiced Tibetan Buddhism under the guidance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tsenzhap Serkong Rinpoche, Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche, and other Tibetan masters for many years in India and Nepal. She was resident teacher at Amitabha Buddhist Centre in Singapore for two years, resident teacher at Dharma Friendship Foundation in Seattle for ten years, and has taught Buddhist philosophy, psychology, and meditation internationally. 

    Ven. Chodron is active in interfaith dialogue, was co-organizer for the 1996 training program of Western Buddhist nuns in Bodhgaya, India, and attended three meetings of Western Buddhist teachers with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. She is now founding Sravasti Abbey, a Buddhist monastery in Spokane, WA, northwestern USA. Her books include Open Heart, Clear Mind; Buddhism for Beginners; Working with Anger; Taming the Monkey Mind; Blossoms of the Dharma: Living as a Buddhist Nun; and Transforming the Heart: The Buddhist Way to Joy and Courage (with Geshe Jampa Tegchok).

     
Please visit http://www.thubtenchodron.org and http://www.sravastiabbey.org for more information.

    

Topic: When things just don't go the way you want
    
Date: Thur, 20 Nov 2003
    
Time : 7.30pm-9.30pm
    
Venue: Taipei Buddhist Centre
    
(2 Lavender Street- 
    Walking Distance from Lavender MRT)

    
All are Welcome. Free admission. There will be a performance by the Bodhicitta Group from 7pm to 7:25pm

    
Organised by Charitable Assistance Society and Sponsored by Taipei Buddhist Centre

    
All of us face frustration and disappointment, yet there are creative ways of dealing with these situations so that we transform them into the path to full awakening.

    

Topic: How to love the people you dislike
    
Date: Sat, 22 Nov 2003
    
Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm 
    
Venue: Taipei Buddhist Centre
    
(2 Lavender Street- 
    
Walking Distance from Lavender MRT)

    
All are Welcome. Free admission. There will be a performance by the Bodhicitta Group from 7pm to 7:25pm 

    
Organised by Charitable Assistance Society and Sponsored by Taipei Buddhist Centre

    
We all hear, "Love your neighbor as yourself." It sounds good, but is hard to do, especially when some people seem so inconsiderate or disagreeable. How do we go beyond our prejudice and preconceptions so that we can have genuine care and concern for others? Ven. Chodron has some ideas you'll like to hear. 

    

Topic: Workshop: Living a Meaningful Life
    
Date: Sun, 23 Nov 2003
    
Time: 10am-5pm 
    
Venue: Awareness Place Meditation Centre
    
(#03-39 Bras Basah Complex -
    Walking Distance from City Hall MRT)

    
Registration required ($30) 

    
Enquiries: 6452 2159; SMS: 9022 3435; youth@kmspks.org  

    
Organised by Phor Kark See Youth Ministry

    
What is the purpose of life? Are you leading your life the way you want? What constitutes a meaningful life? Find out more in this full day workshop by Ven. Chodron. 

    

Topic: Youth forum: F.R.I.E.N.D.S - The Buddhist perspective
    
Date: Mon, 24 Nov 2003
    
Time: 7.30pm- 9.30pm 
    
Venue: Taipei Buddhist Centre
    
(2 Lavender Street- 
    Walking Distance from Lavender MRT)

    
All are welcome. Free admission. 

    
Enquiries: 6452 2159; SMS: 9022 3435; youth@kmspks.org  

    
Organised by Phor Kark See Youth Ministry 

    
How do you deal with friends? Through this forum, we hope to help you explore the art involved in developing and maintaining fulfilling friendships. For more information, please refer to  

    

Topic: Rebirth: Is It Really Possible?
    
Date: Tue, 25 Nov 2003 (public holiday: Hari Raya Puasa)
    
Time: 3pm- 5pm
    
Venue: Buddhist Library
    
2 Lor 24A Geylang 
    (Walking Distance from Aljunied MRT) 

    
All are Welcome. Free admission. 

    
Enquiries: 6746-8435
    
Organised by the Buddhist Library
    
Is rebirth really possible? What are the evidence? What is the significance of this doctrine in the overall framework of Buddhist teaching? If you, like many Buddhists as well as non-Buddhists, are perplexed by this issue, come and hear the answers from Ven. Chodron. 

    

Program changes, if any, will be posted to http://www.thubtenchodron.org/Activities/activities.html 

    
To offer lunch (dana) to Ven. Chodron (12 noon to 1.30pm), please contact Hwee Leng at 6489-5646 or email hlang@singnet.com.sg .


    All are welcome
    

    Nov 23Buddhist Library
    Family Day and Fun Fair 2003

    

    "Fun for the Family" - The Buddhist Library
    
Family Day and Fun Fair 2003

    
This year's Library funfair will be held on the 23th of November (Sunday). This year's funfair will be held at the vacant plot in front of Paya Lebar MRT. You can help by sponsoring stalls or cash or puchase tickets for the fun fair. We urge you to support us tie through this difficult period.


    All are welcome
    



    Nov 23
    to
    Nov 30    		Vipassana Meditation Centre ( Singapore )
    Novitiate Programme

    

    
Novitiate Programme for Males (age 12-20) will be held again at our center from 23rd to 30th Nov 03. 

    
The main objective of the programme is for young Buddhists to experience Novicehood and learn Dhamma and its application in daily life. Experienced male meditators would also be invited to mentor our Novices. The programme is free for all participants but vacancy is limited to 12 males on first come first serve basis and priority will be given to those who are new to Novicehood. (Registration details and forms can be obtained at our center or website.) 


    For posters, please go to http://vmc128.8m.com/NovitiatePoster2003/ and application forms can be obtain from http://vmc128.8m.com/Novitiate2003Form or at our centre. Volunteers and Food sponsors are also needed, please share this significant merit-making event with us. You may contact Mr Tin at 97129624.


    All are welcome
    

    Nov 25Buddhist Library
    Dharma Talk by Ven. Thubten Chodron: 
    Rebirth: Is it Really Possible?

    

    
It is our honour and pleasure to welcome Venerable Thubten Chodron. Venerable Chodron was formerly resident teacher at Amitabha Buddhist Centre in Singapore and at Dharma Friendship Foundation in Seattle. Currently, she is founding Sravasti Abbey, a monastery in the USA. She travels worldwide to give talks about Buddhism and to teach meditation. She is also the author of several very popular books on Buddhism. 

    
In this talk, the Venerable will deal with one of the important issues in the Buddhist belief: rebirth. Is it really possible? What are the evidence? What is the significance of this doctrine in the overall framework of Buddhist teaching? If you, like many Buddhists as well as non-Buddhists, have perplexed by this issue, come and hear the answers from a compassionate teacher. Remember to bring a friend so as to share the merit. The talk will be on Hari Raya Puasa Day, November 25 (Tuesday) starting from 3pm.

    


    All are welcome
    


    Nov 28
    to
    Nov 29    		Fo Guang Shan 
    Humanistic Buddhism for Social Well Being / Overview of Agama Sutras in Chinese Tripitaka

    
You are cordially invited to attend Dr Ananda WP Guruge, B.A.(Hons);Ph.D.,D.Litt, Dhamma Talk at Fo Guang Shan Singapore. 

    
Topic: Humanistic Buddhism for Social Well Being 
    
28th November 2003, 8pm 

    
Topic: An overview of the Agama Sutras in the Chinese Tripitaka 
    
29th November 2003, 8pm 

    
Venue : Fo Guang Shan Singapore 
    
146B Paya Lebar Road 
    
#06-01, ACE Building 
    
Singapore 409017 
    
Tel : 68423725 

    
About the Speaker : Dr Ananda W.P. Guruge B.A. (Hons); Ph.D., D.Litt.
    
Dr Ananda is the Dean of Academic Affairs and the Director of the International Academy of Buddhism at Hsi Lai University, Rosemead, Los Angeles County, California, USA.

    
He is also a Visiting Professor of Buddhist and Peace Studies at California State University, Fullerton, and Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois.

    
Formerly the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to UNESCO, France and the USA, he is the Senior Special Advisor to the Director General of UNESCO.

    
Active in International Buddhist leadership, he is a Vice-President of the World Fellowship of Buddhists and the Patron of the European Buddhist Union. 

    
His publications include 45 books in Sinhala nd English and 10 research papers.

    
Dr. Ananda Guruge is proficient in English, Sinhala, French, Pali, Sanskrit, Tamil and Hindi.

    



    All are welcome
    

    Nov 29
    to
    Dec 09    		Buddhist Fellowship 
    Pilgrimage: On the Buddha's Trail

    



    All are welcome
    

    Nov 30Fo Guang Shan 
    Gratitute Walk 2003

    

    


    All are welcome
    



    


     


       

 
     
     December 2003
     
     

    DATEVENUEACTIVITIES
     

    Dec 07Sophia Course Works
    Holistic Counselling Workshop by Dr Patricia Sherwood

    



    Sophia College of Counselling
    
Bunbury, Western Australia
    
through wisdom to healing
    
In conjunction with
    
Sophia Course Works
    
Singapore

    
Teaching the Dharma at Different Stages of Childhood & Adolescence


    
This talk explores the different psychological stages of child development in relation to the acquisition of religious knowledge and the implications for the teaching practices of teachers of the dharma.

    
Workshop Facilitator: 

    
Dr Patricia Sherwood was born in Australia in 1955 and educated at the University of Western Australia. She has been a Buddhist for 16 years and is deeply committed to promoting the practices of socially engaged Buddhism in transforming Australian society. She has initiated a number of community development projects including the founding of a progressive community school, projects for the unemployed, free counselling services for the poor, environmental action projects to protect the forests, campaigns for animal rig! hts and the release of animals facing death, support services for Buddhist refugees in Australia, and the provision of social justice education scholarships for the training of Australian Aboriginal and overseas students from needy communities as counsellors.

    
Dr Sherwood has lectured in Australian Universities for over 25 years in the fields of psychology, social science, cultural studies, religious studies and human services where she has received several awards for excellence in teaching. She is also a trained primary school teacher and voluntarily contributes to the teaching of Buddhism in primary schools in the cultural studies programs. 

    
Dr Sherwood is also a counsellor and psychotherapist and has conducted a clinical practice for over 12 years. She is currently developing accredited diplomas in Buddhist psychology and psychotherapy with leading Buddhist mental health practitioners in Australia. She has published widely in the field of the human services, mental health and Buddhism. Her recent book The Buddha is in the Street, socially engaged Buddhism in Australia is currently in press. 

    
Date : 7 December 2003(Sunday)
    
Time : 2.30pm - 4.30pm
    
Fees : No charge
    
(sponsored by Sophia C W)
    
Venue : Tai Pei Buddhist Centre
    
No 2 Lavender Street
    
Singapore 338823
    
(3rd storey - Meditation Room)

    
Just call Choon Teck (HP: 98509748) or Hwee Hong (HP: 9686 4710) or email: coemgt@singnet.com.sg for register seat by 28 November 2003. We expect a great turnout so please register now to avoid disappointment, as there are limited (80 seats only.)

    


    All are welcome
    

    Dec 13
    &
    Dec 29    		Buddhist Fellowship
    Year End Celebration 2003

    
It is time to stock on what we have accomplished in the year. Reflect on what has really held meaning in our lives.

    
Living a life with a purpose brings happiness

    
Ensuring that 2004 brings greater meaning to our lives involves commitment to our spiritual path and practice. Lets get together and re-affirm our refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha

    
Meditation for the better living

    
Venue: Krete Ayer Theatre
    
30A Kreta Ayer St
    
13 December 2003, Saturday
    
Time: 1.30pm - 3.30pm
    
( 5 miniutes walk from Outram MRT )
    
Open to Public - Free

    

    
Special Evening with Ajahn Brahmavamso
    
Date: 29 December 2003 Monday
    
Venue: Raffles City Convention Centre
    
From: 7.00pm - 10.00pm

    
Programme:

    
7.00pm
  •  Registration and Light Dinner
    
              
  • Musical salute

    
8.00pm 
  • Talk by Ajahn Brahmavamso
    
             
  • " Living with a greater purpose"
    
              
  • Refuge taking ceremony
    
              
  • Special blessings to greet 2004

    
Venue: 

    Raffles City Convention Centre
    
Light Vegetarian dinner

    
Donation tivket : $40.00 per person
    
Child 12 years and below $35.00

    
Please book your tivket early

    
Available at BF Centre
    
Tel: 6 842 6422
    
bfellow@singnet.com.sg



    All are welcome
    • 

    Dec 14
    to
    24    		Cakkavala Meditation Centre 
    Samatha & Vipassana Meditation Retreat by Sayalay Dipankara

    



    
Duration of Retreat : 14 December to 24 December 2003 

    
Venue of Retreat : To be confirmed 

    
Check-In time : 14 December 2002, Sunday, 9am Check-Out time : 24 December 2002, Wednesday, 5pm 

    
Closing of Application: Applicants will be accepted on a first come first serve basis up to 85 full-time yogis or by 3 November 2003,whichever comes first. 

    
More details on registration and other aspects are available in the attached document. 

    
Only fully completed application forms will be accepted. 

    
1. Introduction

    
Cakkavala Meditation Centre was established in August 2000 by a group of Buddhists who appreciate deeply the teachings of the Buddha. As a group, they aspire to support each other in the learning and practice of the Buddha’s teachings, especially in the area of meditation.

    
The society has been highly blessed with the strong support and close guidance from Sayalay Dipankara, an outstanding disciple of a great and highly respected meditation master, Ven. Pha-Auk Sayadaw of Myanmar. 

    
From the linage of Sakyamuni Buddha, Sayalay teaches both Samatha (Concentration) and Vipassana (Insight) Meditation in a step-by-step manner. The objects of meditation commonly given to beginners are Anapanasati (Mindfulness of Breathing) or the Four Elements. The yogis will then be guided through the stages of purification and insight-knowledges. It is indeed a very precious and profound practice. We hope that those who are interested in the Meditation practice would take this golden opportunity to participate in this retreat. 

    
2. The Meditation Teacher

    
Sayalay Dipankara was born in 1964 in Myanmar. At a very young age, she started the meditation practice without external instruction. As she matured, she continued her practice but with guidance from various great meditation masters. In her university days, she was introduced by one of her professors, also a well known Abhidhamma teacher in Myanmar, to Ven. Pha-Auk Sayadaw for close guidance in Samatha and Vipassana practice. She accomplished the practice within a very short period, under the guidance of her skilful teacher. In 1990, she was ordained as a Buddhist nun at Pha-Auk Tawya Monastery. Since then, she was trained to be a meditation teacher. 

    
Sayalay Dipankara is experienced in teaching any of the 40 Kamatthana as mentioned in the Visuddhi Magga e.g. Anapanasati, Four Elements Meditation, Metta, Buddhanussati, Asubha, Marananussati and 8 Samapatti (1st Jhana to 8th Jhana), Kasina, etc and the Vipassana Meditation.

    
In 1996, she was invited to Sri Lanka by the highly respected Mahathera, Venerable U Ariya Dhamma to assist her teacher, Ven. Pha-Auk Sayadaw in guiding the yogis. Since then, she has also been invited by various reputable Buddhist Centres in different countries to conduct courses and intensive meditation retreats for as long as 2 months. These countries include the United State (Insight Meditation Centre), Canada, Taiwan (Hong Shih Foundation), England (Amaravati & Citta Vevekha), Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore, among others.

    
While she was in England, the Oxford University and the Manchester University invited her for discussion on mind training. She was also invited for the Western Conference on Jhana at Jubilados Foundation/ Leigh Brasington, Santa Fe, New Mexico in 2001. 

    
3. The Retreat

    



Duration of Retreat : 14 December to 24 December 2003 

    
Venue of Retreat : To be confirmed 

    
Check-In time : 14 December 2002, Sunday, 9am

    
Check-Out time : 24 December 2002, Wednesday, 5pm 

    
4. The Application

    
a) Any interested individuals, who are healthy in body and mind and aspire to cultivate their minds, are welcome to register for the retreat regardless of race, religion and nationality.

    
b)  The application form should be completed and sent to us in any of the following ways:

    
- Send it together with a stamped, self-addressed envelope for our notification on your application status, to: 

    
111 Tampines Road
    
#02-03 Singapore 535133
    
Attn: Ng Pei Fuen
    
- Fax it to 62534330, Attn: Joey Chang 
    
- Email it to cmcretreat@yahoo.com.sg

    
c) For further enquiry, please contact any of the following:

    
Sis. Peifen 9852 8046 (HP)
    
Sis. Gim 94386583 (HP)
    
d) Closing of Application: Applicants will be accepted on a first come first serve 
basis up to 85 full-time yogis or by 3 November 2003, 
whichever comes first. 

    
e) All successful applicants for the retreat will be notified either by email or postage mail before 10 November 2003. 

    
The Organiser reserves the right to reject any application if the information provided in the application form is incomplete or found to be untrue. 

    
You are kindly requested to inform us ASAP should you need to withdraw your participation due to any unforeseen circumstance. This will enable others on the waiting list another chance.

    
5. Remarks

    
a) The retreat is a precious gift of Dhamma for whoever interested in learning and practising the Noble Eight-Fold Path and hence will be offered free of charge to all.

    
b) Due to limited capacity (max. 85 Yogis), priority will be given to applicants whose application is complete and who will join the retreat for the full period. Therefore, we would like to seek your understanding in case your application is not successful. For those who are given a place for the retreat, please treasure the opportunity.

    
c) No criticism or sarcasm is allowed, especially towards other religions. Those who do so will be disqualified from taking part in the retreat.

    
d) For the purification of sila (precepts taking) so as to reap maximum benefits in the meditation practice, all full-time yogis are required to abide by the 8 precepts (see attached for the list of precepts). Applicants who are unable to observe the 8 precepts are required to declare their reasons on the application form.

    
e) Please bring along your own sleeping bag, personal toiletries and towel for covering the feet during meditation sittings (this towel could also serve as pillow cover or blanket). 

    
f) To help in more conducive and comfortable sitting, the following attires are recommended:

    
- simple, plain or non-distracting attire
    
- loose-fitting long trousers or sarong

    

Note: Kindly avoid clothing that rustles as you walk. E.g. sports attire of nylon material.

    
g) We would deeply appreciate & rejoice in your dana (meritorious deeds of giving) if you would like to help defray part of the cost of running the retreat or help support our retreats in future.



    APPENDIX 

    

    The Eight Precepts


    
1. I undertake the precept to refrain from destroying living creatures.

    
2. I undertake the precept to refrain from taking that, which is not given

    
3. I undertake the precept to refrain from sexual indulgence.

    
4. I undertake the precept to refrain from incorrect speech.

    
5. I undertake the precept to refrain from taking anything, which causes intoxication and 
heedlessness, e.g. alcohol and drugs.

    
6. I undertake the precept to refrain from eating at inappropriate times (after noon).

    
7. I undertake the precept to refrain from dancing, singing, music, going to shows, wearing garlands and beautifying myself with perfumes and cosmetics i.e. things that tend to beautify and adorn (the person).

    
8. I undertake the precept to refrain from lying on a high or luxurious sleeping place.

    
*The 8 precepts are usually observed for 24 hours each time, and can be renewed daily.

    


    All are welcome
    

    Dec 14Bright Vision Hospital
    Charity Walkathon for Bright Vision Hospital

    
Together we walkout the shadow of PAIN!

    
Bright Vision Hospital is a charitable organization proposed by late Venerable Yen Pei.  It is a 302-bedded community hospital located at No. 5 Lorong Napiri (next to Bowen Secondary School) for the sick and poor regardless of race and religion.

    
Our objective is to make quality healthcare affordable to the less fortunate. 

    
We want to give the necessary care especially to the chronic sick and terminally ill requiring long term follow up and medication.  Support and encouragement are also in placed to help family members face life positively.  In all, we hope the sick can live as comfortably as possible and with their families for as long as life permits.

    
We are a voluntary welfare organization, with no major source of income, each day is a worry to us on how to keep ourselves going, how to sustain these heavy recurrent operational expenses.  To cripple us further, we are very new, unknown; this lack of identity makes our fund raising difficult.  

    
We sincerely appeal for your compassion and assistance.

    
Please help the patients at Bright Vision Hospital by supporting our Charity Walkathon.

    
You are our hope! 

    
A message to the less fortunate, they are not alone, a better tomorrow is possible!

    
How to help?

    
(A)  Register for the Walk

    
Sunday, 14th Dec 2003 @ 8am, 3.5km walk 

    
Start Point    Bright Vision Hospital, No 5 Lorong Napiri 

    
End Point     Singapore Buddhist Welfare Services, 105 Punggol Road

    
Registration Fee of $10 per adult and $5 per child (Closing date: 1 Dec 2003)

    
Redeemable for Event Cap and Event Towel (Event cap must be worn for the walk)

    
Please redeem at Bright Vision Hospital between 6am and 7.15am

    
A goodie bag awaits you at the ending point together with a chance to walk away with one of the 10 lucky draws.

    
(B)  Pick up a pledge card (closing date: 1 Dec 2003)

    
Help us make appeals to donors.

    
Every contribution is important to us.  A little can go a long way to save a life!

    

    "If you plant your generosity in the right place, you will receive great benefit."

    ~ Venerable Hsing Yun


    
If you know someone who may wish to help, we appreciate you pass this appeal to them.

    
Kim 
    Project Coordinator
    Off: 64898161 Fax: 64898131 Hp: 90180632

    

    *********

    Yes!  I want to help.

    
My name        ________________________________________

    
My address    ________________________________________

    
My contact      ________________________________________      

    
Please tick.

    
I want to [   ]

    
Participate in the walk.  Please send me a registration form   [   ] 

    
Be a Pledge cardholder.  Kindly contact me to pick up the pledge card  [   ] 

    
 

    All are welcome
    


    Dec 13
    to
    Dec 14    		Amitabha Buddhist Centre 
    Medicine Buddha and Dharma Talk

    

    


    All are welcome
    

    Dec 14
    to
    Dec 25    		Vipassana Meditation Centre ( Singapore )
    Vipassana Meditation Retreat

    
10- Day Vipassana Meditation Retreat ( 14th - 25th Dec 03 ) by Sayadaw U Kundalabhivamsa to be conducted in English and Mandarin translation.

    
Venue : Kew Hua Shan Poh Ern Shih (Temple of Thanksgiving) 
    17D Chwee Chian Road (off Pasir Panjang Rd), 
    nearest MRT: Harbourfront Station. 
    Vacancy: 50; 
    Fee:     Free of charge; 
    Closing Date: 05 Dec 03 
    Meals: STRICTLY VEGETARIAN (with no onion, leek, garlic and egg) allowed in the temple 

    
All participants are welcome. Please fill up retreat application form and mail to us or email to 
vmckm@singnet.com.sg. 

    
Dharma Workers and sponsors are very much appreciated. 

    With due respect to the traditional practice of Kew Hua Shan Poh Ern Shih Temple, we would like to inform all food donors that STRICTLY ONLY VEGETARIAN FOOD (with no onion, leek, garlic and egg) IS ALLOWED in the temple, please contact Ching Fern@ HP 93684551 or email vmckm@singnet.com.sg for inquiry. 


    For more details click here

     

    Biography of Sayadaw U Kundalabhivamsa

    
Sayadaw was born in Waw Township, Bago District, Myanmar in 1921. He became a monk at the age of 9 at the Waw Monastery. He studied at various learning monasteries, amongst which are the two well known Shwehintha Forest Monastery and the Maydhini Forest Monastery.

    
He receives many titles of Dharma Leadership and Meditation Teacher. He taught Buddhist Scriptures to 200 monks daily at Maydhini Forest Monastery for 20 years. After having meditated under Venerable Mahasi Sayadaw for a year, he dicided to teach Vipassana Meditation. He founded Saddhamaransi Meditation Centre in 1978 that caters for an average 200 yogis daily

    
Sayadaw is also a prolific writer and has published several Dhamma books. In the recent years Sayadaw has been travelling widely to upon invitation of devotees to conduct meditation retreats and to give dhamma talks.
    


    All are welcome
    

    Dec 23
    to
    Jan 01    		Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery
    The 100 million Mani Recitation Retreat

    

    Led by His Eminence Drubwang Konchok Norbu Rinpoche 

    
23 Dec 2003 to 1 Jan 2004

    
Delicated Towards Well-being of World peace, 
World Economy & World Health 

    
“The Six-Syllabled Mantra ‘ OM MANI PADME HUNG ’ is the heart mantra of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattvas (Guanyin) and the essence of the Buddhas. The mantra embodies perfect compassion, and is the core of the 84,000 Teachings of all the Buddhas.”
    

    ~ His Eminence Drubwang Konchok Norbu Rinpoche ~ 
    
See details here


    

    
About His Eminence Drubwang Konchok Norbu Rinpoche

    

  • Complted studies of 13 major texts in the Tibetan Traditions, e.g. The Bodhisattva Way of Life by Shantideva.

  • Exponent of the Mind Only school and the Madhyamika school philosophies.

  • More than 30 years of meditation retreat experiences at times taking only 1 petal of flower and a drop of honey water per day during his retreat.

  • Personally completed 12 X 100 million times of Six-Syllabled Mantra.

  • An accomplished practitioner with high realization & a retreat master of Mahamudra

  • Led the completion of tens 100 Million Mani recitation retreats in Nepal and India.

  • Led the completion of 100 Million Mani recitation in Singapore at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery in 2001.


    
"A very powerful and accomplished practitioner" as praised by HH 14th Dalai Lama, he was specially appointed by him to propagate the Guanyin Practice to the whole world to benefit all beings.


    All are welcome
    • 




 

 




    


       

 
     
     January 2004
     
     

    DATEVENUEACTIVITIES
     

    Jan 07
    to
    Feb 20    		Buddhist Fellowship
    Buddhist Psychology Self-Healing in Early Buddhism

    
What is in this course?

    
This course is based on Buddhist psychology as found in early Buddhism and meditation methods. It will explore the mind-body framework; the nature of blocked emotions; origin of sexuality; emotions and emotional self-defence, the focus of mindfulness; problem of religious cults; and essential interpersonal skills.

    
A key aim to provide an understanding of the self-healing process to emotional health. A growing number of modern psychotherapists are incorporating Buddhist psychology into their practice and lives: we will examine the reasons for this.

    
With a wide range of background readings (from scholars, specialists, and practitioners) and notes on Early Buddhist Suttas on mind-healing. This is the first course of its kind in Singapore and the region.

    
Who is this course for?

    
Teachers, supervisors, managers, care-givers, counsellors and anyone interested in healing one-self through the understanding of Buddhist psychology as well offering help to others in need of emotional support and counselling.

    
Syllabus

    

  • Healing Yourself. Buddhist psychotherapy as a way of life. Psychological aspects of the Buddha's first discourse. 

  • Minding the Body. The psycho-physical aggregates: the nature of the body-mind interaction. 

  • Blocked Emotions. Overcoming mental hindrances: clearing mental clutter through self-examination.

  • Master-Minding. Overcoming distracting thoughts and thinking straight. 

  • Dealing with Sexuality. suffering of men and the suffering of women.

  • The Art of Loving. Dealing with one's negative emotions and learning to love oneself.

  • Emotional Self-defence. Dealing with negative emotions. Psychological defence mechanisms

  • Just Looking. Dealing with one's deeper emotions through focus of mindfulness. 

  • The Shadow of Religion. The problem of cults & cult figures. Charisma and self-empowerment.

  • The Middle of the Middle Way. Dealing with problems vs. people. Change as a healing process. 

    
Dates

    
The course is from 7th Jan - 20 Feb (with two weeks break in between for the Chinese New Year). Classes are held twice a week on Wed & Fri from 7pm - 10pm. 7, 9, 14, 16 Jan; 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20 Feb 2004 @ 7.00-10.00 pm. 

    
Lecturer

    

    
Piya Tan is a full-time lecturer and researcher in early Buddhism, and has run numerous meditation courses and retreats since the 1980s. In 1992 he taught meditation in the University of California at Berkeley, USA. Currently, he is doing full-time translation of the Pali Suttas which he teaches in his week classes at the Buddhist Fellowship, Brahm Education Centre, the Singapore Buddhist Federation, local tertiary Buddhist Societies and other centres. A pioneer of the lay Buddhist ministry, he is married with two young sons.

    
Fees & Class Size 

    
$450 for course. Limited to 20 class size
Please call Judy at 6842 6422 to register or email  bfellow@singnet.com.sg

    

Santi Judy
    
Program Co Ordinator


    All are welcome
    • 






    


     


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