London Lotus Buddhism Meetup Group

🌿Prerequisite: Please confirm that you have had a 30-minute session with RKUK for an introduction to the centre and philosophy; please email info@rkuk.org for the Zoom link and mention "Introduction to RKUK".

Discover the unique intersection of Lotus Sutra Buddhism and group therapy in this special event hosted by Ben H, a BACP-recognised UK therapist. Together, we'll explore how the principles of resilience, well-being, and spiritual growth connect through the lens of the Lotus Sutra and therapeutic practice.
In this session, Paul will share practical techniques for emotional and mental well-being while we reflect on key teachings from the Lotus Sutra, such as compassion, mindfulness, and the idea that every individual holds an inherent Buddha-nature. We'll dive into how these spiritual principles can be applied in modern group therapy to foster healing, connection, and personal transformation.
Cute and Fun Ideas for the Event:

• Gratitude Lanterns: At the beginning of the event, participants will be invited to write or share a short gratitude statement or prayer, symbolizing the illumination of their path, much like the Lotus Sutra’s light guiding us.
• Compassion Circle: A mini group therapy exercise where participants can share one challenge they’re facing, and others offer empathetic responses rooted in the NVC (Nonviolent Communication) approach and Lotus Sutra’s teachings of respect and compassion.
• Mindfulness and Odaimoku Chanting: We’ll close the session with a short, peaceful chanting of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo, followed by a brief mindfulness exercise, grounding ourselves in the present moment and reflecting on our inner resilience.

What to Expect:

• Insights into the Lotus Sutra and how its teachings align with modern therapeutic practices.
• Practical advice on building resilience and maintaining well-being in stressful times.
• The chance to experience an interactive group therapy session inspired by Buddhist compassion and empathy.
• Discussion on how the idea of inherent Buddha-nature can influence personal growth and healing.

Location:
Zoom link will be provided upon RSVP.
Who Should Attend:

• Anyone curious about how spirituality and mental health practices intersect.
• Those interested in learning about the Lotus Sutra or group therapy.
• People seeking practical tools for resilience and well-being, grounded in both Buddhist philosophy and modern therapy.

🌿Prerequisite: Please confirm that you have had a 30-minute session with RKUK for an introduction to the centre and philosophy; please email info@rkuk.org for the Zoom link and mention "Introduction to RKUK".

Sunday Service: A Weekly Spiritual Gathering for Reflection, Gratitude, and Renewal
Sunday Service is more than just a weekly ritual; it's a cherished moment in our lives where we come together as a community to reconnect with our spiritual path, express our gratitude, and prepare ourselves for the days ahead. This gathering is designed to provide a space where we can pause, reflect on our experiences from the past week, and draw inspiration for the upcoming one.

Reflecting on the Past Week: Each Sunday, we gather to look back on the events of the previous week. This is a time for personal reflection, where we acknowledge the challenges we've faced, the joys we've experienced, and the lessons we've learned. It's an opportunity to cultivate a sense of gratitude for the moments, big and small, that have enriched our lives. Whether it’s a moment of kindness we received, a challenge we overcame, or simply the presence of loved ones, this service encourages us to recognise and appreciate the blessings in our lives.

Setting Intentions for the New Week: As we transition from reflecting on the past, we turn our focus to the future. The Sunday Service is a moment to make personal vows and set intentions for the new week. These vows are not just promises we make to ourselves, but commitments to diligently practice the teachings of Buddhism in our daily lives. By setting these intentions, we align our actions with our spiritual goals, ensuring that we approach the new week with a clear mind, an open heart, and a sense of purpose.

Sutra Recitation: A central part of our Sunday Service is the recitation of sutras. Sutra recitation is a time-honoured practice in Buddhism, serving as a means to purify the mind, cultivate concentration, and deepen our understanding of the Dharma. During the service, we recite passages from key Buddhist texts, allowing the wisdom of the sutras to resonate within us. This practice not only connects us to the teachings of the Buddha but also fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose among all who participate.

Reading Dharma Passages: Following the sutra recitation, we engage in the reading of Dharma passages. These readings are carefully selected to provide insight and guidance on various aspects of the Buddhist path. Each passage serves as a source of inspiration, offering us new perspectives on how to apply the teachings in our daily lives. The readings are often followed by a brief discussion, allowing participants to share their thoughts and deepen their understanding of the Dharma.

Hoza (Dharma Circle): The service concludes with Hoza, or Dharma circle, a time for communal discussion and support. Hoza is a unique opportunity for participants to come together in a circle of trust, where we can openly share our experiences, challenges, and insights. This practice embodies the spirit of mutual respect and empathy, as we listen to each other's stories and offer guidance based on the teachings of Buddhism. Hoza is not just a discussion; it's a practice of deep listening and compassionate communication, helping us to strengthen our spiritual community and our own personal growth.

Conclusion: The Sunday Service is a weekly oasis of spiritual nourishment, offering us a chance to reset, renew, and recommit to our path. It's a time to be grateful for the past, mindful in the present, and hopeful for the future. Whether you are a long-time practitioner or new to the path, this service provides a welcoming and supportive environment where you can deepen your practice, connect with others, and prepare yourself for the week ahead.
We invite you to join us each Sunday as we come together to celebrate our shared journey on the path of Buddhism. Let this service be a source of strength, inspiration, and joy as we continue to walk the path of wisdom and compassion together.

Please email info@rkuk.org for the Zoom link.