What Is DWMS ?
Dhamma Wheel Meditation Society was established in 2001 and acquired 501c3 status in 2002. In 2005, needing more room for meditation, we moved to our current location. Still growing we again need more space for meditation and classes. With a meditation hall we can enjoy more classes and retreats. Join us as we grow. Our Mission To utilize the timeless teachings of the Buddha to provide individuals with a spiritual system of living and growth not in conflict with human reason and common sense To utilize the timeless teachings of the Buddha to promote harmony and peace among individuals regardless of their religious affiliation. |
Bhante Dhammawansha, Senior Monk Born in 1958 in the hill country in Sri Lanka. Bhante Dhammawansha became a novice monk in 1976, receiving High Ordination in 1981. In the same year he entered the Buddhist University Sirivajiranana Dhammayatannya in Maharagama. Under the patronage of his Holiness Madihe Pananaseeha and his Holiness Ampitiye Rahula, Bhante received both his B.A. degree and his M,A. degree in Buddhism, History, Ethics and the languages of Sanskrit and Pali (the language of the Buddha) After doing missionary work in Scandinavia and Australia, Bhante traveled to the United States in 1996 for a personal retreat. He decided he would stay in the US and continue the teachings of Buddha. In 2001 he founded the Dhamma Wheel Meditation Society . The mission of DWMS is to make the 2600 year old teachings of Buddha and meditation practices available in the USA. While his presence and teaching is requested in other states and countries, Bhante Dhammawansha is very active in the local community. In addition to leading weekly scheduled meditations and Dhamma talks he also engages in social and interfaith work, gives talks to college and high school students, mental health professionals, law enforcement, drug/alcohol rehab centers, as well as to inmates within County Jail facilities. |
Fifty Years...
It is with great appreciation that I celebrate 50 years as an ordained monk this year. Since 1974 I have had many teachers and supporters, each one has assisted me to understand the Buddha’s teachings and supported me with my own practice. This includes my parents, the village that I grew up in, my teachers and the elder scholars and monks from the monastery. I look back with loving kindness and gratitude to all who helped me on my journey. My desire is to honor all the people who assisted me since I began this journey at the age of 16 by conducting a special program in Sri Lanka. I will be conducting a program that will include a meditation and dhamma discussion, lunch and gifts for the 50 monks at the monastery, and evening chanting. In addition, I would like to provide a meal to people from the local villages, many who are still recovering from the economic situation after Covid. My family will be heavily involved in the process as we plan to feed approximately 2,000 people. Along with the meal, I would like to use any additional funds to provide much needed reading and writing material to the schools in the area. |