Sharing Vassa entry joys from Passaddhi Vihara
Passaddhi Vihara
Warm greetings to all from Ayyā Suvijjānā and Ayya Niyyānika in Olympia WA where we are about to enter our first Vassa at Passaddhi Vihara - our new website is PassaddhiVihara.org. Warm welcome to check it out.
We hope you all have a wonderful Vassa season.
Here are some extracts about Passaddhi Vihara from an upcoming article in NorthWest Dharma News.
The name Passaddhi Vihara means Serene Dwelling in Paḷī. Passaddhi is also translated as tranquility and calm. The bhikkhunis’ intention is to dwell simply in dedication to bhavana (inner development) leading to the liberation of nibbāna, the heart’s release. Supporters are generously providing lodging for Bhikkhunīs Ayyā Suvijjānā and Ayya Niyyānika in a two-bedroom apartment in West Olympia in Washington State.
In Passaddi Vihara’s first phase, focus is on monastic development, creating a good framework for the monastery, and community Dhamma programs. The Bhikkunis have already launched online Dhamma sharing and sutta studies and some in-person and online short retreats. People around the Pacific Northwest are invited to participate in the dhamma programs, and to support the monastery through alms rounds and the website. They will also continue to offer Dhamma at other venues as invited.
Passaddhi Vihara intends to provide training for aspirants on the path to full ordination. “The more we deepen in Dhamma, the more we will be able to offer to those aspiring to join us,” explains Ayyā Suvijjānā. This will happen when supportive conditions arise, including moving to a larger dwelling and purchasing property.
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Since writing the article, we got residence IDs in Washington State and now are very near filing for Nonprofit status and have elected our first Board of Directors for the Passaddhi Vihara Support Foundation.
This is a very auspicious start and allows us to take time for secluded practice for some of the Vassa. Weekly programs will continue during the Vassa with whichever bhikkhunis are not in seclusion. Welcome to join us online.
Thinking of all of you in the monastic and greater Dhammadharini Community. Wishing you all health, happiness and awakening.
With metta and gratitude,
Suvijjana and Niyyanika Bhikkhunis