In the early days of this year’s Vassa, a pabbajjā (novice ordination) ceremony was held at Vihāra Pod Lasem, located in the Subcarpathian region of Poland, marking a significant milestone for the Forest Sangha in this country. This event took place in a hermitage that is gradually coming into being through the dedication of forest monks, the Bodhi Tree Foundation, and the support of many lay practitioners from both Poland and abroad. We were honored by the presence of Ajahn […]
The First Pabbajjā and a New Step on the Path of the Forest Sangha in Poland
How to (un)learn yourself to meditate – the barefoot walk through Woźniki
During late September of 2024, I spent a week in Woźniki, where Ajahn Kondañño’s Vassa was taking place. It was a unique opportunity to discover the Buddha’s teachings directly from a monk – a living teacher. I generally knew what I should expect before I got there, as almost a year before it I participated at Winter Shelter in Czarków, also led by Bhante. But still – there was no shortage of surprises, stirrings and discoveries. Stays with Ajahn Kondañño […]
The first Vassa in Poland is underway!
The Vassa that Ajahn Kondañño is spending in Poland has been going on for several days. We have prepared long and carefully for this event, realizing its momentousness. During the Rain Retreat (Vassa), monks and nuns commit to staying in one place, often using the occasion to study the principles of monastic training. Vassa traditionally begins the day after Ashala Puja, the festival commemorating Buddha’s delivery of his first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, which set the Dhamma wheel in motion. […]