‘Day of Mindfulness’ to celebrate 10th year in Merced
A meeting that’s brought a Sri Lankan Theravadan monk to Merced to discuss Buddhist philosophies will reach its 10th anniversary this month.
Bhante Wapola Piyananda, who has taught in the United States for about 30 years, will speak June 20 in Merced for the tenth annual Day of Mindfulness, according to meeting host Jule Biesiada-Lama.
Piyananda, the abbot of Los Angeles-based Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara monastery, is expected to bring other monks with him for the day of teaching and meditation.
Biesiada-Lama said the Day of Mindfulness is a time of philosophical discussion and not about a particular religion, and all people are welcome.
“The teachings are such that any religious denomination would be comfortable with them,” she said.
Past meetings have drawn as many as 30 guests, who have the opportunity to speak one-on-one or in groups with the monks.
She said guests are welcome to stay for the whole meeting or for shorter amounts of time. Guests are asked to call her to get directions to her home, and to answer other questions.
“They’ll get more out of it if they can come for the whole day,” she said.
Those looking to go should also wear loose, comfortable clothing as the meetings include yoga. She said the meeting could take place outside depending on the weather.
Piyananda is also the author of “Thus We Heard: Recollections of the Life of the Buddha” and “Saffron Days in LA.” The Day of Mindfulness will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 20. For information, call (209) 384-2835 or (209) 631-9631.
IF YOU GO
Day of Mindfulness for Merced will be held at Jule Biesiada-Lama’s home from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 20. For her address, call (209) 384-2835 or (209) 631-9631.
For more on the event, send an email to Windsong Sangha at windsongsangha@gmail.com.
This story was originally published June 11, 2015 at 7:02 PM with the headline "‘Day of Mindfulness’ to celebrate 10th year in Merced."