Dear Sangha Friends,

As we move forward with grateful hearts and awareness of the many challenges our citizens of the world face, we practice with faith that practice and Dharma can transcend all obstacles. Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara perceived that all five skandhas are empty so there are no obstacles in the mind. There is no fear, and departing far from confusion and imagining, we reach ultimate wisdom and compassion. As GuoGu teaches us the Dharma and meaning of the Heart Sutra in his monthly talks, let me reach out to each of you and offer you the precious opportunity of generosity, to contribute to the Tallahassee Chan Center, its teachings and offerings, its operations and its future growth. Your gift helps the Tallahassee Chan Center spread teachings of wisdom and compassion. In 2024, we plan to expand our reach to new audiences with initiatives including:

  • A major project to construct a residential hall on our property, capable of housing 50 people. This will allow us to offer short-term and long-term residency programs and offer proper housing for retreatants who come from different parts of the world. Additional information, comprehensive plans, and building layouts will be provided in the near future.
  • A summer Chan camp offering a residential experience for intensive immersion of both meditation and study practices.
  • Chan Buddhism for Beginners: Our team is working to put together a series of free online courses on Chan for beginners, with a focus on practices, history, and culture.

Please join me in donating what you can to spread the Dharma and GuoGu’s teachings to more people.

“We pray for the flourishing of Buddhadharma, for peace in the world, for the joy and contentment of all people, for the freedom and ease of body and mind.” (From the Dharma Drum Mountain Transfer of Merit liturgy.)

With palms joined,
Fran Berry
President
Tallahassee Chan Center