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Golden Wattle Sangha is an Insight Meditation (Vipassana) group that has blossomed in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney
1. Who are we? We’re a democratic, secular group which studies Buddhist teachings and how they can be beneficial in our busy lives. We follow the emerging secular Western insight tradition and are guided by the original teachings of the Buddha. We do not have one regular teacher who leads the group, or any one person who is in charge. We come together to sit in meditation as a group, to learn from the teachings, to support each other and explore our practice together. 2. How do the nights work? We sit in silent meditation for 45 minutes, followed by a short tea break and then we often have a teacher who gives a talk on an aspect of the Buddha’s teachings (a dharma talk). Golden Wattle teachers are from a range of different backgrounds and have varied approaches. On evenings when there is no teacher we discuss our practice or chapters from Buddhist books or have a discussion led by a group member. Whether or not we have a teacher, there is always the opportunity for questions and discussion and to share our experiences. You are free to interact with the group as much or as little as you like. 3. How can I sit? Can I sit on a chair or on a cushion? Can I move? You are welcome to sit in whatever way is most comfortable for you. Chairs are available at the centre or you can bring your own meditation cushion or stool or sit on the floor (which is carpeted). If you become uncomfortable, it’s fine to move during the sit, being mindful to minimise disturbance to others’ practice. 4. Am I expected to come every week? You are welcome to come as regularly or irregularly as you like. 5. How experienced is the group? How much meditation experience do I need to have to attend? There are a variety of levels of experience within the group. Some of us have been meditating for decades, other for just weeks. If you haven’t sat in silent meditation before, we suggest you speak to us before coming along for the first time. 6. Am I expected to be a Buddhist? The group explores the Buddha’s teachings but there is no need for you to hold Buddhist beliefs in the religious sense, or to identify as a Buddhist. Any further queries please contact Jane on 0403817088. |
Where Lvl 2, Mill Hill Centre, 31-33 Spring Street, Bondi Junction When Thursdays 7pm (for 7.15) to 9pm How much $5 facility fee + dana (donation to teacher) PrograMME 45 minute sit and when no teacher there will be an audio Dhamma talk and/or discussion. 2nd May: No teacher (audio Dhamma talk/discussion) 9th May: Winton Higgins 16th May: No teacher (audio Dhamma talk/discussion) 23rd May: Jonathan Page 30th May: Alan Bassal 13th June: Bhante Sujato 20th June: Jill Shepherd |