We had a refuge ceremony for Suzanne this week. The weather was lovely so we held the service out inthe back garden of Broomspring Lane and then shared a delicious meal together.
More photographs here
From the service -
Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels
In ordinary life people seek safety by taking refuge in many things that do not support a goof life or that are impermanent. There is, however, a special Buddhist way of taking refuge which does not have bad side-effects and which can be counted upon, giving us security that works in every situation. This way is to take refuge in the Buddha, Shakyamuni, the founder of our spiritual tradition, the Dharma, his teachingaof Eternal Truth and the Sangha, the Buddhist community: throughout space – all those who practise the Buddha’s teaching throughout the world today and also throughout time – all who have practised these teachings, from the Buddha himself to us today. The Buddha, Dharma and Sangha are colectively referred to as the Three Jewels or the Three Treasures. They are jewels and treasures because they are the most precious things inBuddhism. They are refuges because they help and support us on the spiritual path. The act of taking refuge is the most important religious act in Buddhism. In addition, we take refuge in the Buddha of Infinite Light and Infinite Life, Amida and in Amida’s Pure Land, here and everywhere, now and in all time, which is called Sukhavati.
