October 15, Appamada will hold a formal Bodhisattva Initiation ceremony, known as Jukai in the Japanese tradition. Such ceremonies help connect us, both personally and as a community, to our larger story. It helps us step out of our small story for just a bit and experience our connection to the wisdom and compassion conveyed down through the ages by the Buddha, and to the amazing story of how Buddhism is emerging in the West. 

In formal ceremonies we use ancient language and forms and infuse them with the warmth and care of personal experience. In this way we create a bridge from the timeless teachings of our tradition to our present lives and times. This truly has transformational power, both in celebrating the vows of participants and in heartening the witnesses. Having devoted themselves to the contemplative practice of sewing Buddha’s robe, the participants entered into a deep vow to live their lives faithfully guided by the Buddhist precepts. It is wonderful to see such patient, sincere dedication. Please join us as we celebrate this important step on the spiritual path.