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03 Jun 2006Rocana Vihara - ‘Radiant Dwelling’ Recently the property beside Aloka Cottage became available. Given its ideal location and the shortage of accommodation in the Nuns’ Community, the English Sangha Trust decided to purchase it. It will be known as Rocana Vihara, or ‘radiant’ dwelling - after Sister Rocana, the first nun to take ordination in England.
The Rocana Vihara project will greatly benefit the whole community. The significant addition to the existing facilities will provide support for a sustainable women’s community in a place that is well suited for Dhamma practice. As it will also alleviate pressure on the communal spaces in the main house, it supports the well being of everyone at Cittaviveka—monks as well as nuns.
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30 Apr 2006One of the current projects at Amaravati is the construction of Kutis (meditation huts). In May 2005 and May 2006 two Kutis were constructed in Amaravati Woods, close to the monastery. The Kutis have provided members of the Sangha with the opportunity for solitary meditation practice. The construction of the Kutis was only possible as a result of the kind generosity of the monastery’s supporters. It is hoped that during the next few years, additional Kutis will be added. |
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12 Apr 2006Amaravati Stupa Landscaping
The Amaravati Stupa is a replica of the Stupas of Borobodur Temple in Java. Arriving at the meadow behind the Retreat Centre, the eyes of residents and visitors alike are drawn to this limestone monument. People like to come and pay respects and be reminded of the Buddha, which, both physically and metaphorically, is only visible when you look ‘within’. Raised on a plinth, the Stupa can be seen from the footpath around the meadow, marking the still point, the centre of the universe. The community is using the Stupa especially on Vesak and Kathina and other Festival nights for a ritual of circumambulation, chanting, and offering of candles, incense and flowers.
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