The Founding of Buddhasena
Our journey was started by a number of Buddhists in Columbus, Ohio fueled by the thirst for Dhamma. Initially there were many obstacles we had to face due to the lack of accommodation for Buddhists to hold discussions and exchange experience about Dhamma with one another. One of the other obstacles we faced was the lack of Bhante and Pandita who could give us suggestion or counsel.
Our first activity was started by holding a Vesak prayer 2547 at one of our member�s apartment. At that moment we really had no idea what Paritta could be recited or the steps to be taken during the moment of Vesak. Days before, a friend of us had sent an email to Bhante Uttamo asking for guidance. Eventually we followed all the guidance given by the Bhante.
With a very humble altar (seen on the picture), a modest statue of Buddha, we celebrated our prayer for the first time. Filled with affection were we, who were yearning to be able to do prayer all this time, that we could eventually fulfill our wish on that day. There were 11 Buddhist who were present, whom they had heard about the event only from word of mouth.
In the end of Spring Quarter 2003, we held our prayer for the second time. It was at that time that we decided to hold prayer regularly. End of the summer, we then decided to form a registered organization in our University. It was from that moment on we use the name Buddhasena which was given to us by the venerable Bhante Jotidhammo.
Until now we are still holding prayer regularly once a month. As time goes, our membership grows in number. After prayer, we hold a Dhamma discussion as well, considering that no one can provide Dhammadesana at our place. We had just done this activity at the prayer in November 2003.
That was how our journey went, may Buddhasena (Ohio-DhammaCakraTra) develops and prospers.
Sadhu-Sadhu-Sadhu |
