I’m planning to visit Sangha in person on a Monday night. What should I expect?

We are a fairly informal community, both in person and online. Newcomers are most welcome. We take off our shoes at the entrance to the room (so wear socks if your feet tend to get cold!). We have hot tea and snacks and chairs as well as cushions to sit on, whichever you prefer. We typically do a few chants at the start, projected on the screen, then do a brief meditation, followed by a teaching by Tim Olmsted. You are welcome to join in the chants or remain silent. Tim typically asks if new people wish to introduce themselves - we ask you to use one of our microphones so the online attendees can hear you. Our community is hybrid with a large group joining the in person gathering remotely each Monday night via Zoom. At the end of the evening, we do a closing chants and chat with each other while we help to put chairs and cushions away.

Do I have to become a member to attend meetings or donate?

We welcome anyone to participate as much or as little as they wish regardless of membership status. We value friends of the sangha as well as members of the sangha. If you feel you benefit from the teachings and community over time, please consider a donation of any amount to assist us in our offerings.

How is the best way to ask questions?

Tim invites questions from the community at his teachings on Monday. If you wish to speak directly and privately to Tim, sign up for an interview. If you have a question for the community, a good way to do that is through the Google Group. It can be helpful in communicating with many to gauge interest, share a joy/concern, share a teaching that touched you or request help.

How do I communicate with a member directly?

If you wish to reach someone specifically, you could direct chat with them on zoom to get their contact information or ask Susan to connect you via membership@steamboatbuddhistcenter.org.

I’m visiting sangha from out of town, how do I get good information on things to do or places to stay?

The google group may be a great place to ask this, otherwise feel free to contact any of the council members or dekyongs listed on the contact page.

Is there a prayer request page?

The Buddhist Center does offer a place to submit concerns that you would like to added to a prayer list. You can decide if you'd like those to be shared with the sangha or kept private. Submit a request for prayers.

How do I unsubscribe from just one type of email (ie, Sacred Outlook Quote or NOM Quote, but not the weekly email)?

Please email our secretary, Michael, at secretary@steamboatbuddhistcenter.org and let him know what you would like to unsubscribe from.

You “dedicate the merit” at the end of teachings. What does that mean?

The English word “merit” is defined as being or doing something worthy and creating value. Dedicating this value—this wholesomeness—to others expands our meditation beyond ourselves. Read more about "dedicating the merit" in this Lion's Roar article.

How do I get on the Nature of Mind meeting notification list?

Tim offers Nature of Mind teachings about every 6 weeks in an online format. These gatherings are open to anyone who has received “pointing out” in-person from a qualified lineage holder. If you have any question about whether, or not, you’re qualified to take part or to be notified of these meetings, please email info@steamboatbuddhistcenter.org.