About the Practice of Dana

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The practice of dana dates back from 2,600 years.  Dana is “generosity of spirit,” which is the giving and receiving from heart to heart.  Buddha in His wisdom purposely set up a practice of direct interchange and interdependence between the monastic and lay Sangha. He foresaw that reciprocal respect and kindness would develop between members of the Sangha in following the practice of dana, which in turn would assist each one of them in bringing their training to fruition.  Generosity is the first sign of Enlightenment and the practice of generosity opens one’s heart to the Dharma.  Sacred Falls International Meditation Center has no source of income other than your kind donations, which are the traditional way to show appreciation for the Teaching of the Buddha.

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All kinds of support are very welcome and much needed, be it monetary, in kind, or volunteer work of all sorts. Please contact us if you wish to know more about our needs.

It is traditional for members of the laity to make offerings to the monks of the basic requisites of life. This includes food offerings, donations in kind of clothing, medicine and shelter; to support our Center as a place of practice and retreat from the world we also need offerings of money to pay our bills and maintain our buildings.  To make a donation for an overnight stay, a meditation group meeting or a ceremony or other event at the temple supports the entire Sangha, making it possible for us to continue our training and teaching.

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In the past we have been able to offer retreat time and teaching to anyone, without asking for a set fee which might otherwise prohibit someone from coming. We owe this solely to the financial support of members and guests, as the Center does not receive other organizational support. Regular monthly or occasional donations, however small or large, bring great blessings and are gratefully received.

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Donations to the temple are tax deductible and may be made via our website. Longer term support of the temple and the Dharma might also be to include the temple in your legacy or bequest.

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If you have taken the Precepts and wish to widen your commitment to practice or make the temple your spiritual home, you may consider becoming a member. Members make a pledge to financially support the temple, and are invited and encouraged—but not required—to participate actively in ceremonial, members’ meetings and all other aspects of temple life (see Membership).

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Food and Other Offerings
Offerings of food and other household items are greatly appreciated, as are offerings of help with various work projects that support the Center. For a list of current needs of the Center, please click here and check the "Alms Bowl".

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Donations by Cash or Check
Monetary donations are very much appreciated in support of the temple. Checks should be made out to "Sacred Falls International Meditation Center". Contributions are tax deductible.

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Donations through PayPal
An easy and secure way to make donations online is through PayPal. This method allows you to use a credit card for making donations. Click the "Donate" button in the top right menu to make an online donation through PayPal.

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Volunteer

Another vital offering is of ones time to help with the work of the Center. This includes a variety of tasks, from helping to maintain the buildings and grounds.  We need help with cleaning, assisting with newsletter, website, shopping, transporting monks, and etc. Community work days are scheduled on our calendar, but help is welcome every day!

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You are welcome to visit the Center for whatever part of the day suits you, and please share our meals with us. Working together as a Sangha is a helpful way to not only give to the Center, but also to take refuge in the brightness and willingness of our fellow trainees and to get to know one another in different ways. If you are able to take on a regular task or contribute a few hours of work, please contact one of the monks.