Useful information
1. Shrine room etiquette
As a place intended for hearing teachings, as well as for prayer and meditation, we ask that the Shrine Room be kept a peaceful space at all times. Please consider the following points of etiquette:
* Please remove your shoes before entering the shrine room.
* It is customary to stand and bow, holding your hands in prayer, until the Lama/Teacher is seated.
* It is customary to prostrate before the Teacher once he is seated, however this is not a requirement.
* Please do not point your feet towards the altar or the Lama/Teacher.
* Any dharma materials, containing teachings or prayers of the Buddha, should be treated with respect. Please do not place them directly on the floor or allow others to step over them.
In general, please be respectful to the shrine room, the Lama/Teacher, and those attending the meditation and/or teachings. If you have questions, please ask. We are all here to increase our understanding of Buddhism.
2. "Dana" the practice of generosity
In Buddhism, the practice of generosity is closely linked with spiritual progress. Generosity plays a big part in creating positive conditions for ourselves and others. There are different ways we can practice "dana" at Kagyu Samye Dzong Cardiff:
Material Dana
Pujas and meditation instruction, whilst not carrying a price tag, cost time and money to provide. In addition to the teacher's time and effort there are bills to pay.
Please put what you can afford into the collection box in the shrine room as it directly affects the provision of teachings and keeps the centre open - and gives you good karma!
Time
Helping out with the running of the centre is also a form of "dana". There are many things we need help with, from maintaining the shrine and offerings, to greeting and tidying, to putting up leaflets, marketing and design and general admin.
Please see one of the sangha members and give what you can afford - it is precious to both you and us!
3. Puja sponsorship and book of remembrance
If you would like to sponsor a puja then please contact the office with the date(s) and time(s) of your choice and your offering. Pujas can be offered for a variety of different reasons and people; the merit generated during the puja will be dedicated by all present to the intention of the sponsor.
There is also a remembrance book where names of the troubled, sick and departed can be included. These will be read out at the monthly Medicine Buddha puja. Please contact the office for more details.
New to Tibetan Buddhism?
Some of the things we do may seem complicated or difficult to understand but please, if you are unsure of anything at all, or just want to chat about Buddhist beliefs or teachings, either contact info@meditateinwales.net or speak to one of the sangha members in the shrine room after an event. We will be more than happy to help however we can.
Kagyu Samye Dzong Cardiff is Part of the Rokpa Trust Limited, Registered Charity No: 1059293
2a-4a Cardiff Road, Caerphilly CF83 1JN, Tel (02920) 860 054
