Chan Magazine Winter 2008

"Prior to partaking in our vegetarian meals, we recite an offering:

We make offerings to the Buddha,
We make offerings to the Dharma,
We make offerings to the Sangha,
We make offerings to all sentient beings.

First we make offerings to the Three Jewels, because we are grateful to them for giving us the means to practice the Way. We then make offerings to all sentient beings for their contributions to our welfare. Mealtime offerings help us to develop the mind of gratitude... In this situation, I too feel gratitude and try to repay it, and I offer it to all of you... I thank you for giving me the opportunity to make this offering."

– Chan Master Sheng Yen, from 'Attaining the Way: A Guide to the Practice of Chan Buddhism'.

Contents

From the Editor

Orthodox Chinese Buddhism
   by Chan Master Sheng Yen

“Waka”
   Poem by frank crazy cloud

“Friends of the Buddha” 
   A play for children to celebrate the Chinese New Year, by Noah Heau and Ernest Heau

The Past
   News from the Chan Meditation Center and DDMBA

The Future
   Retreats, classes, and other upcoming events

Chan Center Affiliates