Sangha Care
Photo by Corwyn Miyagishima
Used with permission
At the heart of our Buddhist practice is friendship. Tending to each other deepens our practice and connection, for both givers and receivers. We all go through times of difficulty, and it's not always easy to ask for help when we need it, just as it's not always easy to know when we could offer help. The Morning Star sangha care group has been created as a way of organizing care and support for one another in times of need. This group is a resource for all in our community.
The sangha care group offers support to anyone who regularly practices with Morning Star Zen Sangha who could benefit from practical assistance or some company. These are just some examples of what the sangha care group can offer:
- Meals or grocery shopping in a challenging time;
- A visit while you are in the hospital or homebound;
- A ride to practice with Morning Star Sangha or to a sesshin;
- Help around the house if needed;
- A companion (a "sangha friend") in difficult times.
Regarding sangha care in sickness, old age, and death, please see this document.
Support is not limited to these scenarios. Please reach out about whatever you might need, and the sangha care group will respond to requests as we are able. Please know, however, that we do not offer any professional services. In the case of a serious crisis or medical emergency, needs will be better addressed by a trained professional or by dialing 911 or 988 (crisis lifeline).
Our sangha care group will also sometimes offer tea after our weekly service. These teas will offer fellowship and an opportunity to connect with each other and with someone from sangha care in a social setting. We hope they will also be an opportunity for informal reflection on our practice and for deepening our relationships.
To Request Sangha Care
Email us at [email protected] to request support, and someone from sangha care will respond. You are also welcome to connect directly with sangha care members during our tea sessions. All communications with sangha care will be kept confidential among the sangha care group, practice leaders, and teachers unless otherwise agreed. Making a request for sangha care does not obligate you to volunteer your own services in return.
To Offer Sangha Care
More help providing support is always welcome. If you are interested in joining the sangha care group to offer assistance, please speak with a practice leader or teacher.
