What’s coming
The calendar for May and June has been published on the website – https://dragonbelltemple.org.uk/calendar/
Currently it looks likely that we will be continuing at Cross Farm into the summer months, see property news below. There are likely to be an increasing number of works being carried out here in the coming months. The drainage system is currently being completely overhauled and when anticipated work starts on the roof we may have to make adaptions or temporarily shut up shop on the temple. Hopefully I’ll be able to remain living here whatever happens even if it may not be wise to permit visitors. I’ll give notice of course if any calendar events need to be cancelled.
There are places available on the residential retreat 28th May-1st June, at Eden Rise Retreat Centre. Book now if you want to be sure of a place.
Property Purchase
On 19th March, the attempt to purchase the property in Ashburton was aborted. We were unable to agree a price. Based on a number of survey reports, we felt that there were a significant number of works needed and some potential risks, that together with price, made it beyond our reach. Our lower offers were rejected.
A couple of days later we viewed a property in Shillingford St. George, a small village three miles south of Exeter. We had to compete for it and our offer was accepted. The conveyancing has started and all being well, we should be completing in July. The location is very good for Dragon Bell, I feel. Shillingford is in the corner below where the east-west A30 and the north-south M5/A38 meet, so quite easily accessible while retaining a quiet rural aspect too. The property is a bungalow and is likely more appropriate in size and costs for us than the previous purchase attempt. Though it doesn’t have quite the potential that the Ashburton place had, there are possibilities to extend the available space in one way or another and overall, I am pleased with the prospects.
Other news
The Sunday morning meetings availability on Zoom is now expanded to include the sitting period at 9.00am. So login is available from 8.45 and you can join the first sitting which ends at 9.35. There will then be a break until the second sitting at 10.00. If you want to join for the second sitting onwards, you can login anytime during the break period 9.35-10.00.
Sunday 4th May will be a steering group/sangha meeting following morning service. This year will be the 5th anniversary of Reverend Myfanwy’s death 2nd July 2020. One of the things we can talk about is what we are going to do to commemorate her life in July.
A new meditation writing article published – In Praise of True Endeavour
Best wishes
In Gassho
Willard