|
Since the Buddha's time, the Sangha—ordained nuns and monks—have traditionally been the ones to preserve the teachings for future generations.
But this peaceful tradition has fragile roots in America. While hundreds of Dharma centers flourish in the U.S., few provide support for monastic communities.
That's why Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron founded Sravasti Abbey—an American Buddhist monastic community dedicated to learning, practicing, living, and teaching the Buddha's principles. The Abbey aspires to fulfill its motto, "creating peace in a chaotic world."
Sravasti Abbey's programs attract increasing numbers of participants and the monastic community is growing. To teach everyone who wants to learn—residents as well as numerous visitors—Sravasti Abbey needs facilities to accommodate them.
With the future in mind, we have developed a detailed master facility plan to prepare for the Abbey's growth. Someday a temple and library, guest hall, resident house for monks, additional nuns' quarters, a residence for the abbess, and several more retreat cabins will comprise the Sravasti Abbey landscape. Buildings will be constructed slowly over the next many years as need for them arises.
Progress To Date
Planning began in 2007 to address the most immediate needs—expanding the kitchen and dining area and building a home for our nuns and female guests.
In 2008 we remodeled the exisitng kitchen and began construction on a monastic residence —Gotami House—a retreat cabin, and supporting infrastructure.
Through the generosity of thousands of people from around the world, we accomplished much in 2008 and dedicated Gotami House in 2009. The retreat cabin is expected to be finished in the summer of 2010.
Your offering will help to complete the current effort and pave the way for our next building project, Chenresig Hall, a guest house that includes a commericial kitchen and dining area that can accommodate the numbers of people who want to come for retreat, teachings, and course.
Everyone who longs for peace can help.
Your generous offerings and prayers are helping to build a home for the Buddha's Sangha at Sravasti Abbey.
|