Greetings all and best wishes for the new year.
We have the very good news that Thanissaro Bhikkhu, also known as Ajaan Geoff, abbot of Metta Forest Monastery, will be our guest for the month of May 2020. Than Tim, who was our guest in 2019, will accompany Ajaan Geoff. The monks will reside at 1295 Boulderpath Road in Metchosin, BC where they will study and practice.
Ways to connect with the monks
I. Offering food
Offering food for monastics is considered a virtuous act. The opportunities to offer food are arranged by day of the week and location during our May 2020 visit. We encourage you to participate in these joyous acts of generosity.
Monday to Friday 10 am
In Metchosin: Bring your food offering by 10:00 am to 1295 Boulderpath Road in Metchosin. Email info@aranyarefuge.ca to let us know you would like to bring food.
Saturday 11am - 2pm (May 2, 9, 16, 30)
In Victoria: 4013 Magdelin St. Victoria BC. After the meal offering to the monks, participants share the remaining food. After the meal, Ajaan Geoff will lead a short meditation and answer questions from 1 - 2:00 pm.
Sunday
Generously, the Thai community has agreed to offer food for the monks on Sundays. For more information contact info@aranyarefuge.ca and we will connect you with the coordinator, Nat Johnstone.
II. Non-residential retreat on May 23, 24 2020
A two day non-residential retreat lead by Ajaan Geoff. Co-sponsored by the Victoria Insight Meditation Society.
Goward House, 2495 Arbutus Road, Victoria BC
Online registration opens April 27, 2020
Gratitude for Supporters
We sincerely appreciate the dana meal contributions and financial contributions from supporters of the Aranya Refuge Project. Going forward, the organizers would like the project to continue annually and possibly for longer periods of time, such as the three-month Rains Retreat. You will find information on how you may contribute to the Aranya Refuge Project on the Offer Support page of the aranyarefuge.ca website.
Gratitude for the Sangha
We are honoured and grateful that Ajaan Geoff has directed his efforts to establishing a presence on Vancouver Island for Wat Metta monks. We are delighted to provide the monks' requisites and to be in their company.
May their presence bring forth the incomparable field of merit for the world.
Sincerely,
Aranya Refuge Project Organizers
Brock Brown, Russ Callaghan, Jacqui Balfour, John Jordan, June Fukushima, Nat Johnstone, Kiko Brown