Dear Friends,
As the golden warmth of summer settles around us, I find myself pausing often – to listen, to feel, to notice the subtle unfolding of life both around and within us. Just like the natural world, our spiritual lives seem to follow their own organic rhythm, blooming in their own perfect time. And lately, our Hertford sangha has witnessed the most beautiful, heartfelt growth.
A Day of Quiet Luminescence
Last Saturday was one of those quietly radiant days that seem to shimmer in memory even as they unfold. Five beloved members of our sangha stepped forward in a ceremony of deep sincerity and joy – becoming mitras, pledging themselves anew to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.
Watching each of them voice their commitment, surrounded by spiritual friends, was like witnessing flowers opening all at once under the gentle gaze of morning light. It reminded me that this path isn’t merely about ideas or practices – it’s about people, hearts, lives transformed. It’s about us, walking together through the turning seasons of our spiritual journey.
To honour these profound moments, I’ve invited each new mitra to share their story in the coming weeks. Not just summaries, but the real turning points, the moments of doubt and grace that led them here. These autobiographical talks are always raw and radiant, reminding us that the dharma touches each life in its own extraordinary way.
Dharma Day: A Personal Invitation
Next Sunday 13th July, many of us will journey to Cambridge for Dharma Day – celebrating the anniversary of the Buddha’s first teaching. Imagine that moment: the lighting of awakening’s flame in this world. And we, centuries later, are still warmed by that same luminous fire.
Families are warmly welcome for part of the day, with activities for children– so do bring your young spiritual family members along. You can find details at https://www.cambridgebuddhistcentre.com/DharmaDay25.
What Lies Ahead: Our Shared Summer Journey
Here’s what’s unfolding in our Tuesday evening gatherings:
- 8th July – Samudraghosha guides us through the evening
- 15th July – Mangala returns, sharing the wisdom and kindness he’s cherished for
- 22nd July – Mitra Stories: Part One – witness the unfolding of spiritual commitment
- 29th July – Young Person’s Takeover – fresh perspectives and energy, open to all ages
- 5th August – Mitra Stories: Part Two – more hearts, more turning points
- 12th August – Khemananda visits from London, always a nourishing presence
- 19th August – To be confirmed – perhaps a spontaneous evening of inquiry and reflection
- 26th August – A truly special evening: Samudraghosha leads us in celebrating exactly 100 years since Bhante’s birth
- 2nd September – Shubhadasa helps guide us gently into autumn’s embrace
- 9th September – We begin our new 6-week course: “Meditation and Breaking Through into Buddhahood” – an invitation to dive deeper
In Closing
In each gathering, each story shared, each cup of tea after meditation, we’re weaving something sacred together. A space of beauty, presence, and genuine spiritual friendship. Whether you join us every week or just when moved to do so, you are part of this living mandala of connection and growth.
So come when you can, bring your open heart, and know there’s always a place here waiting for you. Your presence makes our sangha brighter, and together we continue this ancient journey of awakening in our own unique, contemporary way.
With warmth, wonder, and boundless metta,
Keith