Progress Update: April 11, 2012
Bon Voyage Ajahn Kusalo!
Ajahn Kusalo’s going away party was a great success. The hall was filled to capacity. Over 70 people came to bid Ajahn farewell. The day began with a lovely dana. Following the meal, we gathered with Ajahn Kusalo in the eponymous kusala sala. Reflections of gratitude were offered by the monastic and lay community. The reflections closed with a message from Luang Por Viradhammo (more on the name change below). Finally, the monastic community chanted blessings while Ajahn Kuaslo gave everyone a liberal sprinkling of holy water. It was a lovely day indeed. Please have a look at the photos.
Arrow River Library Project
They are building a new library at Arrow River Hermitage in Thunder Bay. Construction is scheduled to begin in early May, and will likely continue into the fall. They are now in the process of recruiting crew. Ajahn Punnadhammo writes…
“Any time a person is willing to share, long or short, is appreciated and we will slot them in. Housing priority will be given to construction crew this summer.”
If anyone is interested, please contact Ajahn Punnadhammo at arfh@xplornet.com.
Ajahn Viradhammo Now Luang Por
Very seniour monks in the Ajahn Chah tradition are often referred to as ‘Luang Por’, which means ‘venerable father’. Ajahn Viradhammo has been a monk for 38 rains. Therefore, in monastery communications he will now be referred to as ‘Luang Por Viradhammo’. This is an excellent way to honour Luang Por Viradhammo’s longstanding commitment to the holy life. So, the next time you see him, give the new name a try :).
Luang Por Viradhammo’s Travels
Luang Por seems to be having a great time in China. He writes…
“I’m back in Jinhong after spending 2 days in the hills with the Bulong people. They still practice Theravada Buddhism amidst the terraced hills of tea bushes, rice and sugar cane. We walked out of the village for 3 hours and then a truck stopped and took us down to the valley. People are friendly and helpful.”
Safe travels Luang Por!