PGHIMC - Pittsburgh Independent Media Center

Gay Men's Buddhist Sangha forming in Pittsburgh
by Barry L. Ralph Thursday, Sep. 15, 2005 at 3:42 PM
LavenderLotus@aol.com (email address validated)

Gay Men's Buddhist Sangha forming in Pittsburgh

FOR RELEASE: Immediately


CONTACT: LavenderLotus@aol.com


Barry Ralph or David Bolgert


GAY MEN’S BUDDHIST GROUP FORMING IN PITTSBURGH




A Buddhist “Sangha” (meditation community) for gay men and their friends is forming in Pittsburgh. Patterned after communities in other major cities, the group intends to be non-doctrinal and distinctly “western” in its approach to meditation and practice. Pittsburgh is home to a variety of Buddhist meditation traditions, and the new Lavender Lotus Sangha will attempt to welcome those of various backgrounds, as well as those new to meditation practice. You need not have a Buddhist background to participate.

The initial gathering is planned for Wednesday, October 19, at 7:00 pm in the Evans Room of Calvary Episcopal Church in Shadyside. Refreshments will be served and plans will be made for the weekly meetings. Each week the group will gather for meditation, discussion, instruction, and hospitality. They also intend to become a venue for planned social events in a non-judgemental, loving, and non-alcoholic environment.

The group draws inspiration from the work of Steve Hagan’s Buddhism Plain and Simple and the writings of Thich Nhat Hanh. They emphasize that Buddhism is not a belief system, but is rather about examining the world clearly and carefully. Steve Hagen writes, “It’s about knowing rather than believing or hoping or wishing.”

Those wanting additional information prior to the October 19 meeting can email the group at LavenderLotus@aol.com.

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