Regional Buddhist Teachers Meeting Saturday, October 2, 2010 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Portland Insight Meditation Community
The Northwest Dharma Association sponsors an annual gathering of Buddhist teachers from the greater Pacific Northwest: The purpose is to provide opportunities for teachers from all Buddhist traditions to get to know one another, to share their skills and experience, and to discuss areas of mutual interest.
WHO IS INVITED
Anyone who has (a) been designated to have responsibilities as a teacher by a Buddhist group in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Alaska, British Columbia, or Yukon, or (b) ordained in a monastic tradition, or (c) formally recognized or ordained in a lay tradition.
LOCATION
The Portland Insight Meditation Community has generously offered their space for this year’s meeting. PIMC is located at 6536 Southeast Duke Street in Portland Oregon. Portland Trimet Buses that run nearby include the 19, 71, 72, and 10.
WHAT WILL TAKE PLACE
Fellowship, discussion, and sharing food (lunch will be provided).
The format and topics of the day's discussions will be determined by the participants. NWDA volunteers will be on hand to help facilitate as needed.
Possible themes for discussion include the “maha sangha” of Buddhism in North America and how we can learn from and mutually benefit each other; our different teaching methods and styles; teacher training and authorization; financial issues faced by Buddhist teachers; developing urban and rural centers; and promoting interaction among different Buddhist groups.
These are certainly not the only areas for fruitful discussion; they are simply a starting point. We’d like to hear from you about the agenda (click here to send your suggestions on the RSVP form).
ONLINE BUDDHIST TEACHERS FORUM
NWDA has established an online forum for its Teacher Members to facilitate interaction and communication. If you would like join the online teachers forum, please visit the NWDA website at www.northwestdharma.org and become a Teacher Member.
THE ROLE OF THE NORTHWEST DHARMA ASSOCIATION
Bringing Buddhist teachers together from around the region is one way to fulfill the mission of the NWDA: to support Buddhist teachings and community; foster a network of friendship and support among Buddhist groups and individual Buddhists from all traditions; promote communication among Buddhists and with the larger community; and sponsor activities of interest and benefit to Northwest Buddhists and those interested in the dharma.
If you'd like to attend, RSVP as soon as possible.
Feel free to call me with any questions or suggestions, or include them with your RSVP.
We look forward to hearing from you.
With appreciation for all you do for the dharma, our region, and the world,
Nick Vail
President
Northwest Dharma Association
