The annual period between the full moons in July and October is known as the Vassa, or Rains Retreat, in Buddhism. Although the summer months are often dry outside of Asia, Western Theravada monasteries continue to honour this time of stability and practice for the monastic community.

The photo indicates that there are some changes during this year's Rains at Birken: First, Ajahn Sona isn't here(!). Sītavana's abbot is acting as the senior monk at Bhavana Society in West Virginia, where he was ordained 20 years ago. Ajahn Sona is lending assistance to Ven. Henepola Gunaratana, his preceptor, who is taking a well-deserved sabbatical from his many duties at Bhavana and beyond.

Second, our monastic numbers have increased to six. We have been joined by two senior monks from Abhayagiri Buddhist Monastery in northern California: Ajahns Sudanto and Karunadhammo (middle front and right front, respectively). By now, many visitors to Birken will have met Ajahn Sudanto, who has stayed with us several times, most recently during the last Winter Retreat. While this is Ajahn Karunadhammo's first lengthy visit, he actually stopped by this property in 2001, just prior to its formal purchase. The remaining bhikkhu community is comprised of Vens. Pavaro, Subharo, Dhammavaro, and Suvaco.

Owing, perhaps, to the fact that the first ordained followers of the Buddha numbered five, Buddhist tradition regards it to be very auspicious when five or more monks reside together throughout a Rains season. 2009 marks the first time this condition has been met at Birken Forest Monastery.