It is a tradition for Buddhist lay followers to offer meals to the monastic community.  Monastics are dependent on lay people to provide food each day because they are not permitted to cook or store food.  Traditionally a meal offering is made to honor a special event in someone’s life, such as a birthday or a marriage.  It is also frequently done in memory of a family member on their three month or one year death anniversary.  But meals can be brought at any time for any reason.  What matters most is that it is done in the spirit of generosity.

How to arrange a meal offering

To find out if a date is available, please our office.  Once you know the date, please complete the Visit Registration.  If you will be providing the whole meal it is a good idea to contact the office about a week in advance to find out how many people will be here.

What else to know

Usually the lay people who regularly provide meals here prepare vegetarian food, but you may bring whatever food you feel comfortable cooking.  If you have never brought a meal before or are not accustomed to cooking for large group you can feel free to talk to our office manager or kitchen manager about any concerns you have.  We want to help you in whatever way we can.