Spiritual Growth

Program 10:00 am – Morning chanting and meditation 11:15 am – Alms offering to the monastic community 12:45 pm – Robe and fund offering for Dhamma propagation 1:30 pm - Buddha Puja and meditation 2:30 pm – Merit Dedication Ceremony, blessings, and conclusion White clothes is appreciated

Meditation practicing

The Chinese New Year Gathering will be held at Mitcham Community House 19 Brunswick RD Mitcham on Saturday February 28 at 6-7pm AEDT. This event will bring in a joyful and prosperous Year of the Fire Horse. Chinese New Year gives us an opportunity to transform all negative inferences to positive ones and make a new start in our lives. We warmly invite you to join us for this special gathering on Feburary 28 at 6-7pm at the Mitcham Community House. If you are not able to attend in person, please use the link below to register. [https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIocO2rpz8vHtV1SoNGBzqbMKSgoQyAT6QF](https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIocO2rpz8vHtV1SoNGBzqbMKSgoQyAT6QF) We wish you a happy and prosperous Year of the Horse.

This is a chance to meet some peeps, hang out, chat, eat some snacks and maybe play some poker. Don't worry if you don't know how to play. We are happy to teach you. There's no charge and we don't use real money, but we do have prizes for first at each table. Cool drinks, snacks and chocolate will be provided. This is an alcohol free event.

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

**Sunday Walk** **Middle Brighton Beach – Bayside foreshore** ***Please Note: is a re-post of the earlier Sunday Walk. Confirming it is for THIS Sunday. Those who have already registered, please register again, as the old date is now in the past. Sorry for the date error.*** This next Sunday Walk will head back to the bayside foreshore. This walk takes us to the ever-popular Middle Brighton Beach, with its famous bathing boxes. We'll finish with coffee at the **Royal Brighton Yacht Club** \- on the deck overlooking the marina and the bay\. Come and join us. It'll be a great way to spend your Sunday morning. **Start:** Bay St, Brighton. Assemble at the beach end of Bay St. **Parking:** Park along Bay Street or in St Ninnians Road, off Bay St, just back from the beach. Parking is FREE. **The Walk**: The walk is along the Bayside Trail past the Brighton Baths and onto the picturesque bathing boxes, and then return the same way. **Total distance**: 5.0 km. **Time:** Allow 2.5 hours, including coffee. **Difficulty:** Easy, although we are walking on beach sand for a short distance. **Toilets:** At several places along the way. **Coffee:** At the cafe in **Royal Brighton Yacht Club**. We can have brunch there too if we wish.

Once a month Elni hosts our Port Phillip and Bayside socials. It’s a great opportunity to meet others. Our emphasis is on fun and enjoying each other’s company whilst supporting anyone who might need it. We each pay for our own food and drinks. This time, we’ll meet for dinner at Sons of Mary, a lovely place with a relaxed, elegant vibe. It’s a cosy spot with great service and a warm atmosphere — perfect for a friendly dinner and good conversations. We’d appreciate it if you could update your RSVP the day before so we can provide an exact headcount for the reservation. The table is booked under the name Elni. We hope to see you!

✨ **Do you want to...** * 🫶🏽 Connect with like-minded people in your local community? * 🏋🏽‍♂️ Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others? * 🌈 Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn)? * 🧘🏼‍♂️ Experience a simple yet powerful meditation practice to find calm and clarity? Or maybe you just want to... ☮️💟☯️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet some amazing new people?** *** ### **Join us on Sundays!** Let’s come together, share positive energy, and build a warm, supportive local community. **Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** *** ### **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection *** ### **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need. *** ### **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue costs, provide resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** *** ### **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** *** ### **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present.

**The Harm and Value of Religion** We are looking at religion and what harm it does or what value it has for society if any. And why the recent increase in interest by intellectuals and atheists despite thinking it's obsolete. **VIDEOS** [We DON'T need RELIGION - Sam Harris vs Jordan Peterson](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fpIUjbWd5k) [Why Religion Does more Harm than Good in the World](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp3pW_2E2BM) [Eric Weinstein - Why Nobody Believes In Anything Anymore](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwylZPb-HWs) **Discussion Outline** 1\. Can we perceive the world without a structure? 2\. Is religion harmful? 3\. Atheist: "Religion is interested in you whether or not you give a shit"

**90-minute facilitated workshop** Join me for a slow, mindful walk through **Wilson’s Botanic Park**, combining gentle movement, guided prompts, and relaxed sketching. This workshop is about **noticing rather than perfecting**. We’ll have three sketching sessions, with a different focus for each. No drawing experience is needed. You’ll be guided through a series of short prompts designed to: * quiet the inner critic * encourage playful, pressure-free drawing * help you see familiar spaces in new ways We’ll begin with a short grounding exercise, move through the park at an easy pace, and finish with nibbles and reflection. It’s a space to slow down, reconnect with your creativity, and enjoy drawing as a way of being present. **What to expect** * A grounding meditation and intention setting * A relaxed, welcoming environment * Gentle walking at a comfortable pace * Simple sketching prompts and guidance * Nibbles and shared reflections ### Who it’s for * Beginners and experienced artists alike * Anyone feeling creatively stuck or curious * People who enjoy walking, nature, and quiet creativity * Creative souls looking to join a supportive creative community No prior art experience required. ### Practical details * **Duration:** 1.5 hours * **Location:** Wilson’s Botanic Park, Berwick * **What to bring:** sketchbook and pen/pencil, water, weather-appropriate clothing * **Accessibility:** paths are hilly and there will be some gravel paths; we move slowly and pause often. ### Pricing Tickets are $35. Your spot will be saved following payment. **Note:** Registered Artist's Way participants will get a $10 discount. Register your spot by clicking on the link: https://events.humanitix.com/walk-and-sketch-a-guided-creative-walk-hd2tmzaw/tickets

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss work, labour, machines and the good life. Ilya will be leading this session. It's a big topic and we are likely to continue talking about it next Sunday. **We will meet at the Queensberry Hotel, 593 Swanston Street, Carlton (100m north of previous location) at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp.** **We kindly ask attendees to pay $5 to attend to help with MeetUp costs & venue costs. This is not mandatory, but if you are a regular member it would be appreciated. Any extra moneys will go towards buying food and drinks for the table. The venue also expects us to spend money as a group, so grateful if everyone could buy a drink from the venue.** There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion: **Why we work** 1\. If there was no economic necessity – would you still choose to work? 2\. Would you do similar work to what you currently do or something else? 3\. What is “work” as opposed to leisure or other activity? 4\. Is doing work essential to living a ‘Good Life’? 5\. Do you feel guilty when not working? 6\. Is becoming competent at a profession important for identity formation? **Paradox of productivity** 7\. Why is it that no matter how much the economy is industrialised and automated\, there have always been enough new jobs created to keep unemployment low? 8\. In 1930\, the prominent economist John Maynard Keynes predicted that within 100 years technological improvements would result in a 15\-hour work week\. Why hasn’t this happened? 9\. We live in a society where much has been simplified to ‘a click of a button’\, yet why do we feel busier than ever? 10\. Has the removal of bottlenecks caused us to live at a more frenetic pace? 11\. Does difficulty and friction create meaning? Do resistance and constraint force us to slow down and better appreciate life? **Work in my backyard** 12\. To what degree does work \(and associated competition\) function as a necessary ‘sorting mechanism’ for status and resources? 13\. Competition for many jobs – especially those that are prestigious \- is increasingly global\. Has it become harder for people who want a ‘normal’ job \(and the good life\)? 14\. How does the globalisation of work affect how we see the ‘relevant moral community’\, such as between Australia and developing nations? 15\. Is globalised work a trend towards greater justice or injustice? **Augmented Indolence?** 16\. While the advent of every technology introduced thus far has not reduced human labour in aggregate\, with AI will it finally be different this time? 17\. If AI replaces numerous types of jobs wholesale\, what new work may be created \(or greatly expanded\) for humans to do? 18\. If aggregate human labour was drastically reduced\, is it more likely that people will feel liberated from economic necessity\, or beset by a crisis of meaning? 19\. What is worse – a life of constant work\, or no work at all? Hope to see you there!

Turn Anxiety into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, suppression, and apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

**🌅 Refresh & Connect: 1-Hour Morning Walk around The Tan – Every Weekday!** Start your day the refreshing way with a gentle, energising group walk in the heart of Melbourne! **🕖 Schedule** * **Meet**: Aim for 6:50 AM at the steps/entrance area of **Federation Square** (look for the group near the main steps or a small sign – easy to spot in the early light). * **Depart**: 7:05 AM sharp – we leave on time to keep things smooth! * **Route**: A relaxed loop around **The Tan** (the iconic 3.8 km gravel track circling the Royal Botanic Gardens and Kings Domain). * **Pace**: Easy and conversational – perfect for walking, not racing. We're there to enjoy the fresh air, not set records. * **Vibe**: Friendly banter welcome! Chat, laugh, share stories, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings in companionable silence. We're mindful of the beautiful parklands – leave no trace, respect other path users, and soak up the calm of nature right in the city. * **Finish**: Back at Federation Square around 8:00 AM (about 55 minutes of walking + buffer for a relaxed pace). * **Optional extra**: Grab a well-earned coffee or breakfast at **Clocks** (or nearby spots) to keep the conversation going if you like. This is a no-pressure, inclusive group for anyone who wants to: * Kickstart their weekday with movement and fresh air * Meet friendly locals in a low-key setting * Enjoy Melbourne's stunning parklands in the beautiful morning light All fitness levels welcome – walkers of every speed are encouraged (just be ready to move at 7:05 AM!). Bring water, comfortable shoes, and a positive attitude. Dress for the weather – mornings can be crisp! See you on the steps – let's make mornings brighter together! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️🌳 **Recurring**: Every Monday–Friday **Duration**: \~1 hour **Location**: Federation Square, Melbourne CBD

We will meet at the starting point, wak towards the Black Rock Beach and take a round trip back. Parking is available at the train station on site. You can grab a coffee/ snack at the start, as we wait for everyone to arrive in the 15mins. Dress fo outdoor long walk and come join us for an afternoon walk! Take it slow and start from there. **\-\-\- Running Late \-\-\-** If you are running late, please message at least 30 mins in advance. We will wait up to 15 mins before heading off. We won't be able to keep track of messages once we start. **\-\-\- RSVP / Change of Plan \-\-\-** Change of plan or decide not to attend is absolutely okay. Please do update your RSVP to "NO", so others can have the opportunity to attend. **\-\-\- Intro \-\-\-** Kudos to Friends….Expand Your Social Circle Meetup group is a community of individuals who prefer to take it slow to get to know each other overtime in Melbourne. Join us on a fun journey as we explore cafes, restaurants and bars, including drinks, meals, outings, chilling, cultural exchange, etc. Above all, we’d like to celebrate the importance of friendships. So if you are looking to expand your social circle and explore new adventures and venues in Melbourne, come join us! **\-\-\- WhatsApp Group \-\-\-** We use WhatsApp for more fluid communication, including ideas, interest groups, questions etc. Please let the organizer know if you would like to be added to the WhatsApp Group at the event. We will send an invite to attendees to the group. (give us some time) **\-\-\- Rules \-\-\-** Admin will only add members to the group with a clear profile picture. (No hidden behind sunglasses, masks, drawings) **You might be removed from the group in the case of…** * no show * without a clear profile picture * anti-social behaviour (i.e. acts rude / disrespectful regularly) * take advantage of individuals for personal gain(s) **\-\-\- Privacy \-\-\-** Do not disclose your contact number in this post comment. We will delete your comment/info as soon as we see it to protect your privacy.

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. We desirere to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and all members are treated with compassion and respect. All backgrounds are welcome.

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. We desire to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and each person is treated with compassion and respect.

**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. Each gathering may include: * Open discussion on real-life challenges and victories * Guided reflection, prayer, or meditation * Encouragement for living from truth, not fear * Tools for emotional and spiritual growth No preaching. No pressure. Just real men, real conversations, and real transformation.

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Join us every 3rd Sunday of the month right after the Sunday Service for our Potluck Fellowship — a warm and welcoming time to connect, share, and celebrate community together! Bring your favorite dish to share (homemade or store-bought — all are welcome) and enjoy a delicious meal with friends old and new. It’s a wonderful opportunity to relax, laugh, and deepen your connections. Come hungry for good food, uplifting conversation, and heartfelt fellowship!

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.