Southwest Sangha is a self-retreat center
founded on the teachings of Theravada Buddhism. It is situated on the site
of Father Aull's chapel. Father Aull was a catholic priest who was locally
famous as a healer in the 1930's. He developed a machine that successfully
treated black lung symptoms in local miners.
The Sangha has three trailers that function
as meditation kutis and guest quarters, a building that currently houses
the meditation hall, kitchen, living room, and bedroom, and the original
chapel. The house and chapel were built by Father Aull from the abundant
river rock in the area.
Theravada, the teaching of the elders, is the oldest school of Buddhism.
It is considered closest to the teachings of the Buddha himself. Vipassana
is the type of meditation practiced by Theravadans.
Vipassana means "seeing clearly" and is also called 'insight'
meditation. By being quiet and still, and closely examining one's experiences,
insights arise into the true nature of reality.
The sangha residents sit in meditation every morning at 6:30, and every
evening at 7:00, every Saturday from 8AM to noon, and from 8AM to sunset
on every full moon. The meditations are open to all who are interested,
and some Saturdays may see ten non-residents attending.
Residents live by the five precepts commonly taken by lay practitioners.
These are to: Refrain from killing; refrain
from stealing; refrain from sexual
misconduct; refrain from unwholesome speech;
and refrain from using intoxicants.
In accordance with Buddhist practice, the Sangha relies on donations (dana
in the Pali language) to supply life's necessities.
Contact Southwest Sangha at (505) 536-9847
|
 |
|
|
