Bhikkhuni Ordination in California, 29th Aug 2010

[suanck]

Bhikkhuni ordination at Aranya Bodhi hermitage, California, on August 29th, 2010:

http://awakening-forest-hermitage.blogspot.com/

From the blog:
"... a new beginning for both the new bhikkhunis and for Buddhism in North America, as this was the first Theravada Bhikkhuni ordination ever to be held here performed entirely by the Theravada Bhikkhuni Sangha together with the Theravada Bhikkhu Sangha..."

Suan

[pilgrim]

According to the Aranya Bodhi blog, monks from Abhayagiri, including its abbot , participated in the quorum for the dual-ordination.

[tripleN]

Yes, that's wonderful that Ajahn Pasanno (abbot of Abhayagiri) lent his presence. One ex-siladhara was among the newly-ordained bhikkunis. And other siladhara from the California area attended to show their support. Wonder what the other Western Ajahn Chah lineage monks think about this, esp those in England?

[pilgrim]

Yes, that's wonderful that Ajahn Pasanno (abbot of Abhayagiri) lent his presence. One ex-siladhara was among the newly-ordained bhikkunis. And other siladhara from the California area attended to show their support. Wonder what the other Western Ajahn Chah lineage monks think about this, esp those in England?

As Ajahn Amaro is the new abbot of Amaravati, their response would be interesting. Hopefully, it'll signal a thaw in their stand.
Btw, did Ajahn Passano seek consensus from the larger sangha to participate in this ordination? That was the reason claimed for Aj Brahm's "ex-communication".

Mods: there is a similar thread for this under "Theravada for the Modern world". Would it be appropriate to merge these 2 threads.

[Cittasanto]

http://www.scribd.com/doc/37238558/Mess ... Ordination

from Bhikkhu Bhodi!

which Bhikkhus played a part?

[Vardali]

I don't think that this would cause a stir with Thai Forrest representatives in either the West or Thailand. After all, it was labelled as a "Theravada" ordination - and while they might dismiss it as non-authentic Theravadan, I think they will ignore it as long as it is not in any way related to the Thai Forrest tradition.

But overall, I think it's great news and I am wishing all the best to the newly ordained Bhikkhuni

[suanck]

See also:

1) A personal account of the newly ordained Bhikkhuni Thanasanti at:
http://awakeningtruth.org/blog/

2) More photos of the ordination at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/85925581@N00/sets/72157624741073885

Suan.