Our Mission
Our Mission
We provide housing and full assistance to resident Buddhist clergy ordained in Theravada Buddhist tradition. Our mission is to deepen understanding of the Buddha's teachings by enabling them to do their work here in Charlotte, NC (USA). The monks' mission is to develop their own practice while also freely sharing their skills with the community.
Women in robes with shaved heads have joined the neighborhood...
Who are they? And what do they offer to this community?
They are “bhikkhunis”
Fully-ordained Buddhist clergy, or you could say monks or female-monks (nuns). They do not try to convert people to Buddhism, and teach only if asked. They share their skills with the community, always free of charge:
Teaching individuals and groups:
- How to meditate
- How to live happily and get along with people — overcoming anger, etc.
- The Buddhist scriptures and wise advice from the Buddha
- Buddhist history
- Ancient stories
- Traditional rituals
- Buddhist ethics and philosophy
- Ethics to kids, including how to respect parents
The senior bhikkhuni
gives individual spiritual counseling to: Individuals, Couples, Families, Young adults (particularly those who feel lost or anxious), and Kids. They conduct traditional rituals of Southeast Asia, including giving blessings, chanting, moon celebrations, funeral and memorial services, water-pouring ceremonies (see photo below), healing rituals, and house blessings.
They offer a center of quiet reflection and opportunities to letting go of stress and grief, and for gaining wisdom. Their home naturally services as a hub around which a community of like-minded people is developing. And the bhikkhunis live so happily -- with so little -- that they serve as proof that happiness has nothing to do with riches & wealth. Volunteers who understand their penniless lifestyle, and want to support the them, collect funds to give them a place to live, and bring food each day
Vihara Visitor Comments
“ Simply put, this is a wonderful place. A wonderful place for meditation, a wonderful place to meet open hearted people and to learn about the Buddha and his teachings. ”
Jason H
“ Ayya Sudhamma is a true Theravada Buddhist Monk who is very good at teaching meditation and the dharma. This is the real deal. ”
Kurt
“ Ala Americana meditation group in which its leader answers questions in a manner that I can understand. Had a great meditation retreat up in the mountains at 'The Greenville YMCA Camp' around Cleveland, NC/SC borderline. I am ready for another one of those every quarter! Dare to Dream.... ”
Marcel M.
"Serene, beautiful location. great group of people. Loved it"
Karen
“ I enjoyed the mediation, felt very comfortable & love the monks sense of humor! ”
Patty M.
“ Wonderful. ”
Rich H.
“ Led by really good leaders ”
Roger G. on Apr 5, 2015.
“ Educational and very relaxing ”
Katrnia J.
"Good experience "
Gabi
“ Interesting and enticing ”
Nancy C
Ayya Suddhama is a friendly, kind teacher. Everyone interested in developing a peaceful mind should attend.
Tony on Apr 16, 2015.
A great resource that I will be sure to utilize again.Christie on Nov 4, 2015.
Wonderful! Rev. Sudhamma has a beautiful presence. She is accessible and welcoming. This meditation was my first with the group, and I would encourage anyone thinking of going to go 🙂
Erica on Oct 2, 2015.
Wonderful! Cannot wait for more meetings
Dominique on Sep 4, 2015.
A wonderful experience. A gift to the Charlotte area.
Kay on Jul 31, 2015.
I finally made my first Beginners Meetup yesterday and it was so worthwhile. Not just for the relaxation, but the really insightful and practical suggestions made by our leader. Her advice will help me sleep better once I "retrain" my brain, I'm certain. Very thankful.
Susan W. on Jun 9, 2016.
If you look for the bad in life, you'll find it. if you want to look for the good in life. come and join Ayya and friendly good people
Sharon on Jul 27, 2016.
Fantastic meditation instruction, teachings, and community. It is easy to feel the warmth that fills the room.
Robert on Nov 2, 2016.