MEMBERSHIP
Pine Mountain Buddhist Temple is supported by a congregation of devoted lay Buddhists, for whom the Temple is central to their daily religious practice. Members take Refuge in the Three Treasures of Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, and commit themselves to the Three Pure Precepts and the Ten Precepts of Mahayana Buddhism. Temple Members also make a monthly pledge of money, which is the primary means of financial support for the temple. There is no set amount for a Member’s pledge, since this depends entirely on what an individual is able to afford, but we do suggest a base line of $30 per month.
The commitment to support the temple, not just financially but by attending events on a regular basis, has a profound spiritual significance, and helps to deepen your religious practice as you are choosing to take responsibility for the continued existence of the temple. Member’s Meetings are held quarterly, and the notes are made available for those who are unable to attend.
The willingness to practice with others, for monks and lay trainees to support each other with whatever they have to offer, is the life of the Buddhist Sangha. If you are interested in becoming a Temple Member, please ask a monk for a membership form.
WORK DAYS AND OFFERING HELP TO THE TEMPLE
The Temple exists through the offerings of its congregation and friends. Buddhist training is based not just on receiving the spiritual nourishment the Sangha offers, but also on our own willingness to learn to cultivate gratitude and make offerings. One vital offering is of one's time to help with the work at the Temple. This includes a variety of tasks, from helping to maintain the buildings and grounds, to animal care, cooking, cleaning, looking after the library and meditation hall, assisting with the Newsletter, web site, shopping, transporting monks, or making tea, etc.
Working on the Quan Yin fountain, summer 2006
You are welcome to be at the Temple for whatever part of the day suits you, and please share our meals with us. Working together as a Sangha is a helpful way to not only give to the Temple, but also to take refuge in the brightness and willingness of our fellow trainees and to get to know one another in different ways. If you are able to take on a regular task or contribute a few hours of work, please contact one of the monks.
