Description

All FCM members are warmly invited to join Fred this Sunday to explore how we can bring our Dharma outward to help in the healing and transformation of the world. As Fred said in his December 2023 year-end letter to members, 

We stand at an interesting juncture in our sangha’s evolution. For years, our focus was on creating diverse offerings to support the needs of newcomers and experienced practitioners alike, while fostering a genuine ‘community’ that nourishes and sustains its members. We’ve also constructed and maintain physical spaces and gardens that radiate beauty and harmony in a world sadly devoid of these qualities. Achieving this has required an immense amount of energy and dedication from our leaders and the selfless service and generosity of many members. 

As we approach the close of 2023, I believe we can continue to both maintain the richness of our community’s spiritual life and physical home while also dedicating time and energy more actively within the broader Tampa Bay Area community. The creative experimentation that has characterized our journey over the past 13 years, making relevant to contemporary life the timeless wisdom of our Buddhist tradition, equips us to creatively address the needs of others in this era of shadows.

As Fred said in the conclusion of his year-end letter, this undertaking will require the enthusiasm and talents of all of us, newer members and old alike. Each of us has something meaningful and relevant to offer this endeavor, and Fred looks forward to hearing your ideas as we creatively explore possibilities. 

Logistics

Out-of-towners are welcome to stay overnight Saturday evening at Great Cloud Refuge (you’ll indicate your interest in doing this on the registration form) so that we can all attend Sunday sangha, where Fred will discuss community and building bridges, joined by five FCM members who have taken their practice into service in broader communities in create and generous ways. Members will then join for lunch, followed by an afternoon meeting that will include much exploration of ideas, using panels, small groups and more. We expect to conclude around 3:30 pm. 

If you cannot attend in person, you may participate online. The Zoom links will be provided once you register, with guidance to help you make the experience at home as close as possible to an experience in the Meditation Hall.

Registration closes May 2 for in-person and May 3 for online.

Questions?
For more information, please contact Angie at parrish26@gmail.com