Receiving the Precepts
On Sunday, December 10th, Red Clay Sangha will hold a formal Precepts Initiation Ceremony. Participation in this ceremony offers you the chance to make a formal commitment to the Buddhist path.
Previously, the precepts have been offered by visiting teachers on residential retreats. This will be the first time that Red Clay Sangha has been able to host this ceremony, led by our recently authorized, guiding teacher, Gareth Young.
On the one hand, receiving the precepts is a "big deal", since this is a public initiation and commitment to Buddhist practice, but on the other hand, for many who consider the ceremony, the precepts are an acknowledgement of something that has already happened. Whichever category you feel you fit into, the participation in the ceremony available to all, as it was in the time of the Buddha. In the traditional teachings, the precepts are offered as a guide for living and a framework for training, rather than a set of rules to follow.
If you are interested in receiving the precepts at this ceremony, or learning more about the precepts or the ceremony, please connect with Gareth at one of our regular services, or reach out to him by email. We understand that the decision to participate in the precepts initiation ceremony is a very personal one. Gareth will provide training and coaching to all who will be participating in the ceremony and He will continue to be available to support each person in their practice going forward.
The ceremony will be held after the regular Red Clay morning service, and it will be followed by a communal celebration and a potluck lunch. Please invite friends and family, bring along your favorite dish, and join us at this time of celebration. (Registration is not necessary - all are welcome!)