Etiquette
An attitude of curiosity, wonderment and respect is the best when approaching Buddhism. If you think about how you would act, as a guest in a strangers house, you will be fine. The Buddhist practice space can be quiet or very noisy. Observe and when appropriate, ask questions. It is impossible to teach anyone everything about Buddhism in a few minutes or even an hour. Buddhism has developed over 2500 years. Don't expect to understand it all from just one visit. It takes a lifetime (and sometimes more) to understand enlightenment (nirvana), but even starting on the path towards that end can bring joy and happiness to our lives.
What should I wear to the service?
We try to keep it casual for regular services at the Temple. As most of the Sangha sits on the floor, comfortable clothing is needed. Avoid clothing that binds, such as tight jeans or tight slacks. If clothing is tight it will cut off your circulation and make for an uncomfortable experience! If you are wearing dresses or skirts consider what it will be like getting up and down from the floor. We do ask that clothes be modest, so no tube tops or short shorts. No T-shirts with what might be considered offensive by others or risque in pictures or words. For holiday services, some members like to dress a little more formally. Of course weddings, funerals and memorials are usually more formal. If your not sure about a particular outfit, then it might be a sign to try something else for coming to a service.
What about my shoes?
At Buddhist Temples and meeting places shoes are not worn into the hall. Please remove your shoes at the door and place them in the shoe rack provided. As people are sitting on the floor this keeps the floor cleaner by keeping outside contaminants which may be tracked in by shoes, out of the hall and off the floor.
Time!
We try to start services at the scheduled time. Try and plan to be to the Sangha meeting place half an hour early. Please try to be on time.
What if I am late?
Sometimes it will be unaviodable and you will end up late. If so, please be considerate of the others practicing. Try to be very quiet when coming into the hondo (main Hall of the Sangha). If coming into a Shodaigyo (meditation), sit to the side (back) until a part of the service where you can move up without disrupting the members who are currently practicing.
What if I am not sure what to do?
If you come a half hour early, someone will be happy to let you know what kind of service we are doing that day and how the service is preformed. We have books you may borrow for the service. Just follow along as best as you can. Don't worry about mistakes. It is ok just to observe the first time if that makes you feel more comfortable. Buddhist practice has lots of elements. We do not expect anyone to be perfect at practice when they first start or if they are visiting us from a different group or school. It takes time to understand why and how we practice what we do in Buddhism.
What about incense?
During the service everyone will be invited to offer incense to the three treasures (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha). Making offerings such as fruit or cakes, candle light, water or tea and incense to the Buddha, the Dharma (teaching), and Sangha (congregation) is an integral practice in Buddhism. It is not mandatory that you offer incense. If you would like to, please follow the other members. Don't worry about making a mistake. Sangha members will help you. If you have a allergy or fragrance sensitivity, please consider sitting toward the back of the room and don't offer incense.
What about donations?
Dana is the first precept (social guidelines for Buddhists). Dana is giving from the heart. This is not paying bills or dues. It comes directly from a feeling inside that wants to give without expectation. This giving can take many forms from monetary to your time, your ear, your help or a teaching. If you feel that you have got something from the service or teachings that you recieve, please consider giving Dana to the Sangha. If you would like to give flowers or fruit for the Altar please feel free to do so. On occassion, the newsletter will list things we could use in the office or main hall space. If you have these items or would like to donate towards these items, please talk with Rev. Faulconer.
How do I become a member of the Sangha?
There are several levels to being a member of the Sangha. Anyone who participates in regular services is considered a friend of the Sangha. To be a member of the Nichiren Buddhist Sangha of Greater New England, one must have taken Jukai (refuge) with Nichiren Shu (Nichien Order). This is the formal spiritual ceremony which includes the taking of vows to uphold the Lotus Sutra and taking refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. It usually takes over six months of working with the minister to be able to take Jukai. During this time, you would learn basic Buddhism, Nichiren's teachings and Lotus Sutra doctrine and practice. When you feel and the minister feel you are ready, the jukai is performed and you become a member of Nichiren Shu. There is no hurry in becoming a member of Nichiren Shu. This is an important decission and should not be taken lightly. After taking Jukai, you may stay as a friend of the Sangha or become more involved in the Sangha by joining the Sangha association. This would require the paying of yearly dues and regular donations, which would make you eligible to be on the board and vote on Sangha business. This procedure is outlined in our bylaws.