Last Sunday, November 20, 2011 I had the honor of accompanying the Venerable Thich Chuc Thanh to the All Saints Episcopal Church, in Virginia Beach where he was guest speaker for an adult class studying prayer and meditation.

We were warmly welcomed by our hostess, Jan Kibler, who works as the Parish adult program and teaches a Bible Study as well. Jan had met Thay Chuc Thanh earlier in the year when she brought her Bible class to the Dong-Hung Temple for a visit. What a wonderful surprise to see that she had prepared a small stage for Thay Chuc Thanh and that among the attendee’s was a practicing Buddhist whose wife was Episcopalian and he brought his own mat and cushion for Thay Chuc Thanh to sit upon while he spoke.

I was delighted to see the Parish Rector, The Very Reverend, Dr. Stanley W. Sawyer, attended along with an estimated 20 to 25 others. After his introduction,  Thay Chuc Thanh began with leading the group in chanting Namo Adidaphat as a means to center our minds and as an example of how Buddhists prepare for meditation.  Thay Chuc Thanh brought a small singing bowl and wooden fish (mộc ngư) and a bell to use while he led in the chanting. He explained how one can meditate at any time or at all times (7 x 24) and that during meditation one attempts to keep one’s mind on a single thing. His example was to focus on breathing in and out so as to be aware of each breath. The audience shared that the Episcopal often use the Book of Prayer, not only to pray but also at times to meditate.

Some felt they didn’t meditate enough and maybe they should develop the habit. The Parish Rector, made comment that prayer and meditation was to bring one closer to God and help to develop love and compassion for others as well.

I was impressed by not only the warm welcome we were given by everyone, but also by their openness and the interest they expressed through their questions. Both Christian and Buddhists alike see the benefits and the need for meditation. Also how meditation practice takes time to develop as one learns to quiet and focus the mind. Thay Chuc Thanh was asked if he would be able to return at some future date to share more about the Buddhist faith and, of course indicated he could and invited others of the All Saints Church to visit the Dong-Hung Temple as well. All in all it was a cordial time and very enjoyable experience.