Alms round represents a tradition in which lay people offer food to monastics to support their spiritual practice for the day.
I am grateful to participate in this ancient practice with you.
Venerable Junha will stand for alms most days from 7:00 am to 7:30 am. Those interested in offering are encouraged to note their names down on the calendar below for the relevant day. You are always welcome to just come and meet Ven Junha, but using the calendar helps the community coordinate their support. For more information on offering, see the FAQ section below.
During this early phase of settling in Bellingham, the location of alms round is likely to be a bit fluid. For the month of May, alms round will be at the corner of Railroad Ave and E Magnolia St. This is diagonally opposite the downtown bus station.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Click the orange button labeled “Open Calendar”. This will open the calendar in a new tab as a Google Sheets file.
2. Find the date that you plan to offer alms and note your name.
3. Updates will be saved automatically. Just close this tab. You can refresh the alms page on the website to see the calendar with your update.
Questions? Feel free to email for help.
Your offering will provide the day’s meals. Monastics eat between dawn and midday, but tend to eat larger meals during this time so that the total intake is similar to someone eating throughout the day. (Tonics or “allowables” are taken after midday.)
Venerable Junha generally eats a vegetarian diet. She avoids dairy products and nutritional yeast for health reasons. Pre-cooked food (that may be reheated) is generally best.
Yes! The best way to do so at this time is by purchasing a gift card to a local grocery store, such as Community Food Co-op. Ven Junha can then pick up the gift card in the morning and use it to purchase food items for the day.
Community Food Co-op gift cards may be purchased over the phone at 360 734 8158. It is most convenient if cards are held at the Downtown location. Please be sure to email to let Ven Junha know that you have purchased a card.
No worries. Just update the calendar to remove your name.
