We usually follow the pattern below for our practice sessions – if you can do put some time aside when you won’t be disturbed, find yourself a quiet spot, light a candle and enjoy.
We begin in silence so people can settle in.
Welcome
Dharma Talk
Silent Meditation
Nembutsu Practice
Refuges (repeat after the celebrant)
For refuge I go to the Buddha
Namo Buddhaya
For refuge I go to the Dharma
Namo Dharmaya
For refuge I go to the Sangha
Namo Sanghaya
Precepts (repeat after the celebrant)
With faith in the three jewels I pray that I may not take life
With faith in the three jewels I pray that I may not steal
With faith in the three jewels I pray that I may not fall into sexual misconduct
With faith in the three jewels I pray that I may not fall into wrong speech
With faith in the three jewels I pray that I may avoid intoxication
Bodhisattva Vows
| Innumerable are sentient beings: Inexhaustible are deluded passions: Immeasurable are the Dharma teachings: Infinite is the Buddha’s way: | we vow to save them all we vow to transform them all we vow to master them all we vow to fulfil it completely * |
Prostrations – we do three prostrations whilst chanting Namo Amida Bu
Closing verse
Blessed by Amitabha’s light
May we care for all living things
and the holy Earth