Bodhi Mitta
Kalyāṇamitta Theravada Group
ABOUT US
We are a small group of Non-Secular Theravada Lay Buddhist practitioners based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada that meet virtually. Our group follows the examples of Theravada Forest Traditions(s) to accord as closely as possible to what the Buddha originally taught. We are also friends of Birken Forest Monastery and Canmore Theravada Buddhist Community.
Our practice involves meditation, listening to, and contemplating the Dhamma. Our group is open to all who wish to investigate along with us.
The term Bodhi refers to awakening and the Bodhi tree. Mitta refers to friends.
Kalyāṇamitta means beautiful friends or friendship.
Dhammapāla typically stewards and hosts the group at his home (virtual option also available). Hosting duties may be shared by other Bodhi Mitta members. Please subscribe to the email list for the most current details.
OUR HISTORY
Our small group was created in 2015 by Dhammapāla. His intent was to help deepen his commitment to his practice by creating a space for like minded individuals keen on learning the teachings of the Buddha. What started out simply as a meditation group has transformed into a beautiful alcove for reflecting on the Dhamma and cultivating wonderful friendship(s) along the Buddhist path.
The group was formerly named Bodhi Sangha. After learning that the term Sangha, in the Theravada tradition, refers only to monastic and Arahat communities, we decided to change our name. Out of respect and gratitude for the Sangha we decided to rename to Bodhi Mitta in 2020.
OUR VALUES
Our intent is to create a space that allows people to hear the Dhamma (the teachings of the Buddha), reflect on them, as well as to meditate together. In our current day and age we are blessed to have the teachings so readily available to us by many Ajahns (teachers).
A lot of the terminology used on this website and in our group is in Pali; a commonly used language within the Theravada world.
May all be well, free from harm, free from Dukkha, and peaceful 🙏🏽
OUR MEETING STRUCTURE
Our Meetings have a typical format of the following:
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9:45 am Arrive
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9:50-10:00am Guided Meditation for Kids
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10:00 am 40-50 minute meditation
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10:50-11:00 Break for tea and stretch (Kids are welcome)
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11:00am Listen to recorded Dhamma talk (Kids are welcome)
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Share Reflections and Dhamma discussion
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End at 12:00pm
The last Sunday of every month, we dedicate the entire meeting to doing a deeper dive of the monthly study, in which we listen to the last talk of the relevant chapter followed by a Dhamma discussion.