The mission of the Cleveland Buddhist Vihara is to learn, practice, and promote Buddhist teachings and philosophy of Theravada Tradition in order to cultivate spiritual awakening, improve moral values, and promote harmonious living in our communities. In addition, a wide range of Theravada Buddhist religious services such as meditation classes, public talks and Buddhism classes are provided by the resident monks at Cleveland Buddhist Vihara. FREE MEDITATION CLASSES FOR THE PUBLIC
Buddhist meditation practices are the key to achieve both material and spiritual wellbeing. Buddhist monks at Cleveland Buddhist Vihara will guide practitioners of meditation through weekly and monthly meditation sessions at the temple. Free meditation instruction sessions will also be held at public spaces such as community centers, libraries, and schools upon request. Please contact resident monks of Cleveland Buddhist Vihara to organize free meditation sessions at your institution. PUBLIC TALKS
As part of community outreach, resident monks of Cleveland Buddhist Vihara conduct free public talks on topic including however not limited to spirituality, core Buddhist principles, Buddhist way of life, and mindfulness. Please contact or visit Cleveland Buddhist Vihara for more information on inviting resident monks for talks/lectures at your community gatherings. BUDDHISM CLASSES FOR CHILDREN
We at Cleveland Buddhist Vihara strongly believe that educating our younger generations in Buddhist principles and values will lead to personal growth and communal harmony. At Cleveland Buddhist Vihara, Buddhism classes are offered at four different levels. At Beginner Level, children at the ages of 3-5 participate in basic religious activities (offer flowers and incense to Buddha) and fun activities (Buddhist stories and devotional songs) during the class. Basic Level is designed for 6-8-year-old students with some knowledge of basic Buddhist activities. Students in the Basic Level will learn to relate Buddhist stories and rituals with the teachings of Buddha. In the Intermediate Level, students (aged 9-12 years) are taught basic principles of Buddhist teachings and Buddhist way of life. At the Advanced Level, students are given a thorough knowledge of Buddhist principles and practical guide to Buddhist way of life. CELEBRATION OF BUDDHIST CULTURAL FESTIVALS
Buddhists around the world celebrate the birth, enlightenment, passing of the Buddha on the full moon day of May aka Vesak Day. At Cleveland Buddhist Vihara, we celebrate Vesak Day by observing, practicing, rejoicing in teachings of Buddha followed by a celebration of the life of Buddha with devotional songs and colorful lanterns. Religious event and cultural events are organized to celebrate Sri Lankan Awurudu and New year. SUMMER YOUTH CAMPS
Youth camps are an excellent means of engaging youth in meaningful discussions on moral values. Each year, during the summer break a one-day youth camp will be held in a near-by camp location. These camps will include dhamma discussions, Q&A sessions, meditation programs, and fun activities such as sports and hiking. In these camps, our youth is guided to use Buddhist teachings to solve day-to-day issues.
