What is Sangha?

A community that gathers with a shared enthusiasm to bring the Buddha’s teachings to life
is called a sangha, a Sanskrit term meaning ‘those who delight in virtue’.
Sangha is the third of the ‘Three Jewels’ (along with the Buddha, and the dharma),
and is the embodiment of the teachings and the intention of the Buddha
and all those who have come before.

Becoming a Member of the Community

Every six months, or whenever there is a need, we hold an “Entering the Sangha” ceremony for anyone who would like to join the community officially. Membership in the sangha reflects a desire, interest and willingness to participate in what we do. Becoming a member of our community is not exclusive - many BCSS members are also members of other spiritual communities. Below is a beautiful talk by Tim on Sangha.

Here are some recent comments from our community members talking about what belonging to the Buddhist Center means to them.

We invite you to formally become a member of the community if:

  1. You're interested in exploring the teachings, putting them into practice in your daily life, and want to take an active part as you’re able in the various activities of the sangha.

  2. You want to make a pledge of financial support. This is commonly done in the form of an annual or monthly donation of any amount. Donations can be made HERE.

  3. You can attend the “Entering the Sangha” ceremony virtually or in person. (See Below)

Feel free to talk with any Council Member about membership.

If you have any questions and when you’re ready to join, contact BCSS Membership Coordinator, Susan Barrett at membership@steamboatbuddhistcenter.org.

Membership Ceremony

Members are formally accepted into the community with a short but formal ‘Entering the Sangha’ ceremony led by Tim Olmsted.  

The next “Entering the Sangha’ ceremony will be held in spring of 2025 (TBD) - contact Susan (above) to ask questions or sign up.

The Ceremony for Entering into the Sangha:

"In the presence of the Buddha, who lights the way for all who wander
Upholding the Dharma, the teachings that liberate all who listen
We wholeheartedly enter this Sangha, a community of those who delight in virtue

From this day onward, we strive to tame our fickle minds,
Propagating all that is wholesome,
And leaving behind that which causes harm

We vow to always care for those we meet, whether friend or foe,
greeting them with kindness and joy
For this is our family, who is always in our hearts

With courage and delight, together we travel this path to freedom
Awakening from darkness, we discover the treasury of mind
Radiant, compassionate wisdom is here for us to nourish
This is what awaits us, this is who we have always been."