The Power of Noble Friendship
In the Upaddha Sutta (SN 45.2), the Buddha says, “Admirable friendship, admirable companionship, admirable camaraderie is actually the whole of the spiritual life.” When we come together to discuss a book, we are not just analyzing words. We are practicing noble friendship. We listen deeply to how others understand the teachings and we share our own insights. This mutual support keeps our practice alive and grounded.
Bringing Light to the Teachings
Studying the Dhamma is about gaining clarity so we can suffer less. A good book shines light on the teachings. When we read together, we benefit from multiple perspectives. A passage that seems confusing to one person might be beautifully clear to another. By pooling our insights, we illuminate the teachings far better than we ever could alone. We discuss not just what the author means, but how their words help us navigate life’s challenges.
How to Join Our Book Study Groups
The Sangha offers three main book study groups that meet at different times each month.
The Beginners Book Study Group meets online via the Community Zoom Room on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. Coordinated by Kristy Mooney, the sessions are led by our own beloved teachers, Rosemary Donnell and Mick Malotte, who alternate moderating duties and attend together whenever schedules permit. No prior background in Buddhist philosophy is required, just an open mind and a willingness to explore. The group is currently reading Eight Mindful Steps to Happiness: Walking the Path of the Buddha by Bhante Gunaratana. If you would like more information or wish to join the group when they begin their next book, please contact Kristy Mooney.
The Non-Beginner Book Study Group meets in person at the Sangha on the first and third Thursdays of each month. Coordinated by Elizabeth Diggle and facilitated by rotating members, our group warmly embraces a "beginner's mind" despite our name. We read a diverse selection of books spanning all aspects of Buddhism, chosen entirely by popular vote. Having just completed Becoming Yourself by Shunryu Suzuki, we are now beginning How We Live is How We Die by Pema Chodron. We are a warm, social group that frequently gathers offsite for coffee. For more information, please contact Elizabeth Diggle.
The Engaged Buddhist Study Group meets in person at the Sangha and online via Zoom on the second and fourth Fridays each month. The Group is peer led and is hosted by the Engaged Buddhist group. Deepen your understanding of how Buddhist teachings extend to and inform social and environmental activism. This study and practice helps us become more effective in reducing societal and environmental suffering. Currently, the Group is reading Becoming Bodhisattvas by Pema Chodron. You can find more information about this group on the Sangha Events Calendar. No registration is required.
There are also several member-hosted Home-Based Book Study Groups within our community. These smaller gatherings offer a comfortable, intimate space to expand your practice, discuss Dharma, share personal insights, and build deep friendships. Talk to other community members to find out what they are reading, or you can choose an inspiring book and launch a new group.
Come share your voice, your ideas, your questions, and your presence with us. Experience what the Buddha described in the Vimuttayatana Sutta (AN 5:26) as the true wisdom and joy of studying the Dhamma together.