DDMBA Ontario December Dharma Events

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario December Dharma Events

DDMBA Ontario is pleased and honored to welcome Chan Teacher Venerable Guo Ming to Toronto to oversee a series of public events related to Chan practice from December 9 to 11, 2011

Dharma Instrument Training and Sharing Round Table

• Friday, December 9, 7 – 9 pm
• Location: 148 Fred Varley Drive, Unionville, ON, L3R 1T4 (Hwy 7 and Village PWY)
• An opportunity to learn about Dharma Instruments and how they are used in various services and purposes. Open to all newcomers.
• Followed by a round table sharing with Venerable Guo Ming.

One Day Meditation Retreat

· Saturday, December 10, 10am – 4:30pm

· Multifaith Centre, Main Hall (on 2nd floor), 569 Spadina Ave at Harbord St. Toronto, ON M5S 2J7 (inside Koffler House)

· Cost: $15 non-student, $10 per student (including vegetarian lunch)

· Email meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com to register by Wed. December 7.

· The One Day Meditation Retreat includes periods of sitting meditation, exercise, walking meditation, and Dharma talks from the Venerable to encourage your practice. No prior meditation experience is required to participate in this retreat. Beginners welcome

Dharma Talk

• Sunday, December 11, 10am – 12 pm (FREE, followed by vegetarian lunch, 12 – 1:30 pm)
• Council Chamber of North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M2N 5V7
• Dharma Talk in Mandarin, onsite English translation available

Great Compassion Repentance Service* and Precept Taking Ceremony

• Sunday, December 11, 1:30 – 4 pm
• Member’s Longue of North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M2N 5V7
• *Please note that the chanting in Mandarin only; however, English written translations of the Great Compassionate Repentance Chanting are available for participants’ use.
• To register for Precept Taking Ceremony, send email to ddmba.toronto@gmail.com.

All are welcome!

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With palms joined,
DDMBA Ontario @ Toronto

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DDMBA Ontario July Special Dharma Events

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario July Special Dharma Events

Venerable Guo-jiann will be visiting Toronto the first time from Taiwan. Venerable Guo-jiann is Director of Department of International Relations and Development, DDM. Please join us for special dharma events from July 22 to 24, 2011.

Welcome Potluck Dinner

• Friday, July 22, from 7pm to 9pm
• 154 Poyntz Ave, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J3 (at Sheppard and Yonge)
• FREE and please bring a vegetarian dish to share with all

Dharma Talk

• “Chan in Daily Life”
• Saturday, July 23, from 3:30pm to 5:30pm
• 154 Poyntz Ave, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J3 (at Sheppard and Yonge)
• Talk in Mandarin, onsite English translation available

Great Compassion Repentance Ceremony*

• Sunday, July 24, from 10 am to 2 pm
• 154 Poyntz Ave, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J3 (at Sheppard and Yonge)
• FREE and please bring a vegetarian dish to share with all
• *Please note that the chanting in Mandarin only; however, English written translations of the Great Compassionate Repentance Chanting are available for participants’ use.

All are welcome!

With palms joined, DDMBA Ontario @ Toronto

http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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2011 Chan Family Camp at DDRC 7/27 - 7/31

In case you are interested:

Dear DDM Friends,

I am forwarding an exciting family camp offered by DDRC from July 27 to 31. Please see camp details and registration below.

2011 Chan Family Camp at DDRC, July 27 to 31, 2011

Camp Program: http://ddmusa.org/ddmba_HQ/chinese/Download/2011_chancamp_schedule.pdf

Registration Form: http://ddmusa.org/ddmba_HQ/chinese/Download/application_family_zen_camp_2011.pdf

Camp Flyer: http://ddmusa.org/ddmba_HQ/chinese/Download/2011_chan_camp_flyer_chinese.pdf

Please help distribute to your family and friends.

Thank you.

With palms joined,

Angela Chang

DDMBA: July 10 One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario July One Day Chan Meditation Retreat


Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Sunday, July 10, 2011 7月10日星期日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This is a gentle reminder of the upcoming DDM One Day Retreat which will be taking place at our 154 Poyntz Avenue Centre on Sunday, July 10, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’ practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch.Please note that dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions (including green onions), any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email tomeditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com, no later than Thursday, July 7.

Kindly RSVP meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com by July 7 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.


With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA: March 12 2011 One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario March One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Saturday, March 12, 2011 3月12日星期六
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This is a gentle reminder of the upcoming DDM One Day Retreat which will be taking place at our 154 Poyntz Avenue Centre on Saturday, March 12, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch.Please note that dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions (including green onions), any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com, no later than Thursday, March 10.

Kindly RSVP meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com by March 10 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.


With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA: Feb 12, PASS ON THE LAMP OF WISDOM - One Day Retreat

In case you are interested:

PASS ON THE LAMP OF WISDOM
DDMBA Ontario February One Day Chan Meditation Retreat


Event: PASS ON THE LAMP OF WISDOM - One Day Retreat
Date: Saturday, February 12, 2011 Time: 9:15am to 5:00pm
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto M2N 1J4

You are warmly invited to a One Day Ch'an Meditation Retreat to commemorate the 2nd anniversary of Master Sheng Yen's passing on Feb 12th. This is part of a world-wide set of commemorative events held in that weekend. Please show your support by attending and by inviting friends.

Registration begins at 9:15am, and the program of the day starts at 9:30am. Both in the morning and in the afternoon, there would be showing of Master Sheng Yen's recorded discourses with English subtitles, followed by about one hour of sitting meditation with a break half way for stretching exercises. The day's program would end with a short period of reciting the Amitaba Buddha's name and the transferring of merits. From 4:30 to 5:00pm, there would be a session of optional informal association among the participants.

Sitting in this retreat is less intensive compared to the earlier ones and is suitable to participants with a broad range of meditation experience. Instead of one full day, participants are welcome to attend either only the morning or the afternoon session. Be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to sitting. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels, and a light vegetarian lunch.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Ch'an practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch. (Dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions, including green onions, any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products.)

Please kindly RSVP meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca the latest by February 10 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.


With Palms Joined,

DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA: Sunday Feb 6 Chinese New Year Celebration

In case you are interested:

Sunday Feb 6 Meditation Cancellation/Chinese New Year Celebration Notice

Dear Friend,

This is to notify you that DDMBA Ontario will not be having its regular Sunday Sitting Meditation Session on Sunday February 6, due to the upcoming DDMBA Ontario Chinese New Year Celebration.

DDMBA Ontario's Chinese New Year Celebration will be held this Sunday, February 6, 2011 at the North York Central Library Auditorium. Please note that the official start and end time for this event has changed to 11:30 am to 3:30 pm, with sign-in and registration time beginning at 11:00 am.

Everyone is welcome to this joyful gathering to celebrate a New Year of opportunities and challenges with the DDM chapter. Scheduled events include:

• Complementary potluck vegetarian meal in the company of fellow DDM members, friends and family. (Participants are encouraged to provide a vegetarian dish for this event).

• Special Viewing of Master Sheng Yen's Memorial Concert DVD

• Chinese New Year special activities

• Presentations and sharing

Admission to this event is free for everyone and we encourage you to bring your loved ones to celebrate, as well as learn more about DDMBA Ontario's upcoming events for 2011.

We hope to see you at this event, as well as check our website for other upcoming events and regular activities, by visiting www.ddmba-ontario.ca.

What: DDMBA Ontario Chinese New Year Celebration
When: Sunday, February 6, 2011, 11:30 am - 3:30 pm (registration begins at 11 am; lunch at 11:30 am)
Where: Auditorium, North York Central Library, 5120 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M2N 5N9
Admission: Free


Happy Chinese New Year!


DDMBA Ontario
www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA: Dharma Lecture by Dr. Jimmy Yu (Guo Gu)

In case you are interested:

Dharma Lecture by Dr. Jimmy Yu (Guo Gu)
Chan Buddhism: Life, Intimacy, and Awakening (Jan 28 @6:30pm)


Dear Friend,

Dharma Drum Mountain (Ontario) Buddhist Association, in collaboration with University of Toronto’s Buddhism and Psychology Student Union, is proud to announce that, from Friday, January 28 to Sunday, January 30, 2011, Chan Teacher Dr. Jimmy Yu (Guo Gu) will be in Toronto to deliver a series of activities related to the fundamental practice and teachings of Chan.

Dr. Jimmy Yu is Assistant Professor of Religion at Florida State University. He received inka (affirmation of Chan experience) from the late Chan Master Sheng Yen (1930-2009) in 1995, and is one of the senior lay teachers in the Dharma Drum Chan lineage.

We hope you will take advantage of this exciting opportunity to refresh your mind, gain insights, and learn Dharma in the company of U of T’s diverse population!


Chan Buddhism: Life, Intimacy, and Awakening
Introductory Dharma lecture, followed by Q&A. Admission is free and all are welcome. Sponsored by New College.

• Time: Friday, January 28, 2011 at 6:30pm
• Location: Room 1130 at Bahen Centre for Information Technology
• Address: 40 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2E4 (immediately south of Russell Street)
• Direction: 10 minute walk from St. George or Queen's Park subway stations Bahen Centre for Information Technology

We hope to see you at this event, and please visit our website for more information and other information regarding our regular activities visit www.ddmba-ontario.ca or email us at contact@ddmba-ontario.ca.


Peace and Harmony,

DDMBA Ontario


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Silent Illumination Weekend Retreat - Jan 29-30 2011

In case you are interested:

Silent Illumination Weekend Retreat
Saturday and Sunday, January 29-30, 2011
0.5 Day Retreat or 1.5 Day Retreat


Dear Friends,

We hope you will take advantage of this exciting opportunity to refresh your mind, gain insights, and learn Dharma with Dr. Jimmy Yu and in the company of U of T’s diverse population!

Silent Illumination* Weekend Meditation Retreat

Instructor: Dr. Jimmy Yu
Time: January 29 to 30, 2011 (Sat and Sun)
Location: Main Activity Hall 208, U of T Multi-Faith Centre (located in the Koffler House)
Address: 569 Spadina Ave at Harbord St. Toronto, ON M5S 2J7


Saturday Half Day Retreat

• Saturday, January 29, 1:30 to 6pm (half day)
• $10 for students or $15 non-student
• Light snack provided
• Beginners welcome

Sat and Sun 1.5 Day Retreat

• Saturday, January 29, 1:30 to 6pm (half day)
• Continues on Sunday, January 30, 9am to 4pm (full day)
• $20 for student or $25 non-student
• Sunday vegetarian lunch provided
• Beginner and advanced practitioners welcome

To Register:

• Download retreat application, click here.
  Email the completed application to meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca by Wednesday, January 26.
• Be green: bring your own tableware.

Directions for the U of T Multi-Faith Centre

Download retreat application, click here.

Peace and Harmony,

DDDMBA Ontario

-------------------------------------------------

DDMBA Ontario December One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

In case you are interested:

Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Sunday, December 12, 2010星期日12月12日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This is a gentle reminder of the upcoming DDM One Day Retreat which will be taking place at our 154 Poyntz Avenue Centre on Sunday, December 12 , from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’ practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch. Please note that dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions (including green onions), any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca, no later than Thursday, December 9.

Kindly RSVP meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca by December 9 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.


With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA: Nov 21, Sunday morning GCR Chanting Service

In case you are interested:

Dear Friend,

This is a gentle reminder of our monthly Sunday morning GCR Chanting Service which will be held at 154 Poyntz Avenue on Sunday November 21, from 10 am – 12 pm.

We invite all of our members to take part in the Morning Great Compassion Repentance Chanting every third Sunday of the month. Liturgies will be offered in Chinese, with English translation and explanation provided. This chanting session is an excellent opportunity for members to purify the mind, and thus deepen their regular meditation practice, in the presence of dedicated practitioners who have put sincere effort into learning and practicing the Chanting ceremony.

We hope to see you there.


With Joined Palms,


DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA Ontario November One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario November One Day Chan Meditation Retreat


Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Saturday, November 27 , 2010星期六11月27日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This is a gentle reminder of the upcoming DDM One Day Retreat which will be taking place at our 154 Poyntz Avenue Centre on Saturday November 27, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’ practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch. Please note that dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions (including green onions), any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca, no later than Thursday November 25.

Kindly RSVP meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca by November 25 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.


With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA Ontario Mindful Walking - Oct 10

In case you are interested:

What: DDMBA Ontario Mindful Walking
When: Sunday October 10, 2010 at 10:00 am
Where: Meet at Rouge Beach ( 195 Rouge Hills Drive)
map of 195 Rouge Hills Drive

Dear Friend,

Now that the season is upon us, it’s time to take this wonderful opportunity to enjoy the changing colors of autumn in the company of DDMBA Practitioners.

On Sunday October 10, from 10 am to 3 pm, DDMBA Ontario will be conducting a Mindful Nature Walking Activity through Petticoat Creek Conservation Area. This hike will include a brief period of gentle moving exercise, followed by a relaxing, peaceful walk surrounded by the natural scenery, trees, and waterfront. Come and chat with DDMBA Ontario practitioners or just enjoy the lovely view of the fall colors. Be sure to bring a camera also.

All members and visitors are welcome, and tell your friends and family as well. This event is free of charge. Email us if you would like to attend:ddmba.toronto@gmail.com

DDMBA Ontario members will be meeting at the parking area at Rouge Beach (195 Rouge Hills Drive) at 10:00 am.
map of 195 Rouge Hills Drive

Gentle reminder for participants to bring their own lunch and snacks, as lunch will not be provided during this trip.

Directions to Rouge Beach:
By Car:
Location: 195 Rouge Hills Drive, Toronto
From Highway 401: Exit Port Union Road southbound. Turn left at Lawrence Avenue East, follow Lawrence Ave eastbound to the end where you will see the entrance to the beach.

By TTC:
#54A/E stops at Lawrence Avenue East and Starspray Blvd

What: DDMBA Ontario Mindful Walking
When: Sunday October 10, 2010 at 10:00 am
Where: Meet at Rouge Beach ( 195 Rouge Hills Drive)
map of 195 Rouge Hills Drive

We hope to see you there!

DDMBA Ontario
http://ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA- Oct 2 “Introduction to Meditation Basics-Part II"

In case you are interested:

Dear Friends,

DDMBA Ontario is pleased to offer a second part in our series “Introduction to Meditation Basics-PartII". The class will be conducted on Saturday, October 2nd from 10am to 2:00pm with a half an hour break for lunch (simple, vegetarian lunch will be provided).

The part II session will cover additional techniques and more advanced concepts on meditation including the four kinds of breathing, seven levels of breath regulation and real and false illusions. This session is an attempt of a new format. It is a joint session between the English and Chinese classes and will be conducted by two instructors. Translations will be provided as needed.

If you have taken the part I session before, this would be an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of meditation. There is no cost to these classes and all the necessary equipment is provided.

To register please send an email to ddm.meditation.class@gmail.com

What: Chan Meditation Beginner’s Class –Part II
When: Saturday, October 2, 2010, 10am – 2 pm (vegetarian lunch provided)
Where: 154 Poyntz Avenue

Thank you.

Join Palms,

DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA Ontario October 9, One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario October One Day Chan Meditation Retreat
法鼓山安省分會十月份精進禪一共修


Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Saturday, October 9 , 2010星期六10月9日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’ practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca, no later than Thursday October 7.

Kindly RSVP meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca by October 7 should you plan to attend for meal preparation. The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.

With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA-Sept 18 GCR - Great Compassion Repentance service

In case you are interested:

Dear Friend,

This is a gentle reminder of our monthly Sunday morning GCR Chanting Service which will be held at 154 Poyntz Avenue on Sunday September 19, from 10 am – 12 pm.

We invite all of our members to take part in the Morning Great Compassion Repentance Chanting every third Sunday of the month. Liturgies will be offered in Chinese, with English translation and explanation provided. This chanting session is an excellent opportunity for members to purify the mind, and thus deepen their regular meditation practice, in the presence of dedicated practitioners who have put sincere effort into learning and practicing the Chanting ceremony.

We hope to see you there.


With Joined Palms,


DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

--

DDMBA Ontario September One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario September One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Sunday, September 12, 2010星期天9月12日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’ practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca, no later than Thursday September 10.

Kindly RSVP meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca by September 10 should you plan to attend for meal preparation. The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.

With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

--

DDMBA-One Day Chan Meditation Retreat Saturday, August 14, 2010

In case you are interested:


One Day Chan Meditation Retreat


Date: Saturday, August 14, 2010 8月14日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto M2N 1J4

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. However, some familiarity with meditation methods might be helpful.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do. To fully benefit from this form of group practice, it is the best to attend the entire event.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event. Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, and towels.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca, no later than Thursday August 12.

The event is offered free of charge, while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.

With Palms Joined,

DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

--

DDMBA Ontario August 2010 Dharma Teacher’s Visit

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario August 2010 Dharma Teacher’s Visit


DDMBA Ontario is pleased to announce that, from Tuesday August 3 to Sunday August 15, 2010, Venerable Chan Teacher Chang Yan will be in Toronto to oversee a series of talks and other activities related to Chan Buddhism.

Venerable Chang Yan brings with her an extensive background in teaching Buddhism and Chan practice, and specializes in relating Dharma and Sutra-related talks in an approachable, down-to-earth style that is suited for a wide audience of listeners.

Scheduled events will include the following:

Welcome Potluck Dinner for Venerable Chang Yen
When: Tuesday August 3, 6pm-8:30pm
Where: 154 Poyntz Avenue
Participants are welcome to bring their own vegetarian dish or food

Summer Wisdom Talk: “A Question for Life: Why Am I Here? How Did I Get Here?”
When: Saturday, August 7, 2 pm – 4 pm
Where: Community Room 3, North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street
Languages Used: Bilingual, in English and Mandarin


Introduction to Vimalakirti Sutra (*in Mandarin only)
When: Sunday, August 8, 10 am – 12 pm, 1:30pm – 5:30pm
Where: Council Chamber, North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street
Languages Used: in Mandarin only

Dharma Talk: “The Meaning and Practice of Great Compassionate Repentance”
When: Sunday, August 15, 10 am – 12 pm (followed by lunch and Great Compassionate Repentance Ceremony (1:30 pm – 3:30 pm)
Where: 154 Poyntz Avenue
Languages Used: Bilingual, in English and Mandarin

In addition to leading the above talks, Venerable Chang Yan will also be participating in the following Meditation Sitting and Sharing events:

• Wednesday Evening Guided Meditation and Sharing, August 4, 7-9pm (an opportunity to practice sitting and walking meditation, plus sharing of Dharma alongside Venerable Chang Yan)
• Wednesday Evening Guided Meditation and Sharing, August 11, 7-9pm
• Chan One Day Meditation Retreat: Saturday , August 14, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm (*registration required; to register, please send email to meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com)

Please note that all the above events are free of charge, and prior registration is not required.

For more information on these and other events to deepen the practice and understanding of Chan, be sure to visit our website at www.ddmba-ontario.ca.


About the Teacher:
Venerable Chang Yan studied and practiced Dharma for 30 years under Venerable Master Sheng Yen. Possessing a strong academic background in Buddhist studies and teachings, Venerable Chang Yan has served as a Dharma instructor for several Buddhist colleges and now teaches at Dharma Drum Sangha University.

We hope to see you soon!

With Joined Palms

DDMBA Ontario

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Living Chan retreat

Dear All:

Betty , Alice and I just came back from a 5-days retreat held by Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Association (DDMBA) of Ontario. The first 2 days of the retreat was for "Living Chan" and the last 3 days, "Silent Illumination".

Meili of DDMBA wrote:

"Forwarded below is the event that I am part of in organizing. I wonder if you would like to suggest it to your friends especially the two day Living Chan retreat over the weekend July 9-11. This is a new program GuoXing fashi introduced when he visited Toronto in April.

I attended that one day living Chan retreat in April. It was soooo good. This new workshop type of retreat works very well to those fine minds. GuoXing fashi had used various ways / exercises to help us be aware how minds function…and thus get more insight of ourselves and others. Although it requires meditation experiences, this workshop is of more teachings / module exercises, and much less on the sitting meditation."

Personally I would highly recommend the Living Chan retreat to everyone, specially my family and friends. And I would like to take this opportunity to thank GuoXing Fashi and everyone in DDMBA for organizing the retreat. I urge DDMBA to hold this kind of retreat soon in the near future so that more of us can benefit from it. I do not mind to help out in organizing or sponsoring the retreat.

In the retreat, Fashi helped us to distinguish between phenomenon and reality, to understand how our behaviors are conditioned by our memory and perception, to comprehend the interrelations among body, sensation, mind and Dharma. I specially like the example that Fashi demonstrated: "we are constantly in the state of power struggle- Who is bossing around whom? The phenomena of "I". "

Without a clear understanding of "How the mind works", or putting it deeper, how the Dependent Originality (Causes and Effects) works, all the talks on giving life or our world a solution are illusionary.

For those of us who are serious about finding out "What LIFE is all about?", I urge you to attend this seminar/retreat. Without the common (right) background, all the empty talks and actions will lead us to no where. As a Buddhist, most of us can recite the "Eightfold Right Path, the 12 Links of Dependent Originality, the Five Aggregates", but how many of us are really walking/working on them? How many of us realize their true meaning? How many of us bother to practice truthfully?

If you are looking for some insights on how to resolve the mind-body problems, the answer does not lie in words or arguments, you have to practice, experience and realize it with a humble mind...

May we all keep on practicing, keep on accumulating wholesome roots, merits and virtues; without them our resources are thin...

Be Mindful,
Lung Zhi

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