Buddhist perspective on campus
Published on 07 October, 2003
CQU Rockhampton will host an address on 'The Purpose and Meaning of Life - A Buddhist Perspective', led by Venerable Mahind, the Chief Monk from Aloka Meditation Centre (NSW) and Director of the Australian Buddhist Mission Inc.(ABM).
The address will take place from 7pm-8pm on Thursday, October 16, at Building 32/G18 - Harvard Lecture Theatre.
On his first trip to Australia in 1985, ABM's Spiritual Director, Venerable Mahinda received an enthusiastic reception to his series of talks and lectures. He returned to Sydney in 1986, making Australia his base.
To support Venerable Mahinda's efforts to promote the knowledge, practice and realisation of the Dhamma in Australia, the Australian Buddhist Mission was established in 1986. Since its establishment, ABM has assisted Venerable Mahinda in giving wider access to the Dhamma within the community. This has been in the form of Dhamma talks and lectures both within the Buddhist community and in the wider community (schools, universities, community organisations, interfaith discussions, etc).
In addition, ABM organises meditation retreats which are open to Buddhists as well as non-Buddhists; members of ABM as well as non-members. Other activities which support ABM's mission include youth camps and workshops, Dhamma discussions, Buddhist exhibitions, and publications.
Venerable Mahinda, who was born in Malaysia, was ordained as a Buddhist monk under the Theravada Buddhist Order 20 years ago under the tutelage of the Venerable Dr K. Sri Dhammananda Nayaka Thera.
He undertook basic Buddhist studies and training in Sri Lanka (1977 - 1982) and practical Buddhist meditation under several masters in Sri Lanka, India, Burma and Thailand. Prior to taking residence in Australia Venerable Mahinda was a resident monk at the Singapore Buddhist Mission (1982 - 1985).
His attendance at international conferences and interfaith dialogues have taken him to more than 30 countries.
With the help of ABM, Venerable Mahinda has given lectures and seminars on Buddhism, meditation and its application in daily lives at various high schools and universities as well as other community organisations.
Details are available from Dr.Jayantha Ananda Epaarachchi at: j.epaarachchi@cqu.edu.au