Don’t Miss It: Sri Lankan Food Fair at GBV Premises
(November 15, 3–9 PM)
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GBV Food Fair 2025 Saturday, November 15 • 3–9 PM at GBV Premises
Don’t Miss It: Sri Lankan Food Fair at GBV Premises
Connecting Our Community
Connecting Our Community: New VOIP Phone System at the Temple
Volunteer Project Led by Thevin Jayawardena, A Senior at
Milton High School
Introduction
We are excited to announce a major upgrade to the telecommunications system at the Temple, thanks to the dedicated volunteer work of
Thevin Jayawardena, a senior at Milton High School, under the guidance of his father
Niroshena Jayawardena, a senior Software Engineer, BSc (Hons), M.Sc. in
computer science. Thevin’s technical knowledge, relentless commitment, and his father’s
expertise have resulted in the implementation of a modern VOIP-based phone system. The
new VOIP phone system not only brings our growing Buddhist community in
Georgia, USA, closer but also enables members from across the country to stay
connected, collaborate, and share religious activities at the temple as well as
Buddhist teachings.
Technical Implementation: Building the Foundation
Thevin began his project by setting up the backbone of the
system—an Ubuntu server. This server acts as the central hub for all telecommunication
at the temple. Several key services were installed:
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TFTP Server: Handles transfer of phone
configuration files.
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MySQL Server: Stores phone directories and
system data securely.
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Apache2 Server: Powers the web interface for
managing the phone system.
On top of these, Thevin installed and configured Asterisk
and FreePBX, two open-source platforms that work together to manage calls,
voicemails, and other phone features. Ubuntu provides a stable and flexible
environment for these tools, ensuring reliability and ease of maintenance.
Phone Configuration: Bringing CISCO 7975g Phones to Life
A highlight of the project was modifying the existing CISCO
7975g phones to work seamlessly with the new open-source platform. These phones
were originally designed for proprietary networks, but Thevin reconfigured them
to operate using SCCP (Skinny Client Control Protocol) with Asterisk. This
involved:
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Installing the SCCP module on Asterisk.
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Adapting the module to support all necessary
phone features.
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Customizing configuration files and firmware
settings to ensure compatibility.
With these changes, the phones now connect reliably to the
temple’s network, providing high-quality voice communication for all users.
System Features: Enhancing Communication
The new phone system introduces several features designed to
serve the needs of both resident monks and devotees:
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Interactive Voice Response (IVR) System: A newly
designed IVR guides callers to the right resident monk, making it easier to
reach the appropriate Monk dedicated to the Specific task.
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New Phone Extensions: Extensions have been set
up to connect directly to individual monks, departments, or temple facilities.
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General Voicemail: All users now be able to
leave voice messages, ensuring that no important communication is missed.
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Intercom System: Internal communication is
streamlined, allowing quick announcements and coordination throughout the
temple.
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Devotees Phone Directory: A comprehensive
directory makes it simple to contact fellow devotees, enhancing community
interaction.
Community Impact: Strengthening Connections
The new VOIP system has significantly improved connectivity
within our temple. Resident monks can now communicate more efficiently with
devotees and themselves, whether inside the temple or remotely. The system
makes it easier for devotees to reach out, ask questions, and participate in
temple activities. With this high-tech communication system, we are fostering a
more connected, responsive, and inclusive community.
Cost Savings: Integration with Google Voice
A standout achievement of the project is the integration of
Google Voice with our phone system. This allows the temple to make and receive
calls without traditional phone lines, eliminating costly monthly bills.
Thevin’s solution leverages free and open-source tools while providing reliable
service and substantial savings for this nonprofit Organization, which provides enormous
service to our community.
Conclusion: Appreciation and Looking Ahead
We sincerely thank Thevin Jayawardena for his hard work,
technical skills, and generosity in volunteering for this project. His
contribution has brought lasting benefits to our Buddhist community in Atlanta, Georgia.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to his parents for their guidance
and financial support throughout the project. With our new VOIP phone system,
we are ready to embrace the future, maintain strong connections, and serve our
community even better.
GBV Katina Ceremony 2025
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Poya and Day Long Bhavana Retreat
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The retreat changed me.
My
Overall Experience
By Suwin De Silva
Anyway, back to the retreat itself. I had a great time. I reconnected with some old friends. I had forgotten about them, but they clearly had not forgotten about me. I enjoyed every activity, but I especially loved mindful walking. At first, I did not like it, but as I got better at it, I started to enjoy it more.
I was confused at first about why we had to sleep at 9:00 p.m., since I usually sleep at 10:00 or 11:00. But I understood once I had to wake up at 4:30 in the morning. I am used to waking up at 10:00, so 4:30 felt extremely early, but eventually, I got used to it.
I also had to adjust to not having dinner. On the first day, I had a small lunch and assumed I would eat more at dinner, but there was no dinner. There was nothing I could do, so I went to bed hungry. After that experience, I will never take food for granted.
I learned many other things too, like
impermanence and the concept of Buddha’s atom. And that sums up my experience
at my very first retreat.
A Meaningful Break for My Bustling Life!
A Meaningful Break for My Bustling Life!
It was a beautiful Monday morning during my summer break when I decided to attend
the Georgia Buddhist Viharas’ Sil retreat. At first, I was nervous, as this was the first long retreat
I ever participated in. However, as I entered the meditation room, I saw my friends, and
excitement flushed over me. Without showing my excitement, I quickly and quietly got into my seat.
We began the morning by meditating in two different ways: the first, walking meditation,
and the second, sitting meditation. Both meditations were equally hard in my opinion, because
when I did the walking meditation, we had to walk on the bricks with dirt, tiny stones on them,
and tiny bugs like ants that we had to avoid stepping on. In the sitting meditation, we had to sit
still in silence, which was very hard because many people were making noises or getting
distracted. But both meditations taught me something, like how to be focused and mindful, and
how to be quiet and respectful.
Later, when we were eating, I learned to be mindful of how I was eating, and that I
should not talk or disturb the others while we were eating. I also learned to finish all the food I
got, because otherwise it would be wasteful. I also learned during mealtimes that we should eat
to nourish our bodies, instead of eating for ourselves or our pleasure. After all of us had eaten,
we chanted a Gatha to pass on the merits to the departed and everyone else.
Then came the most exciting part for me, which was work time. During work time, all of
us helped clean the temple and tidy up the meditation room. My friends and I helped broom and
sweep all the leaves and other uncomfortable things out of the walking path. It made me think
about how we should clean out all the bad thoughts in our minds and instead replace them with
pure, clean thoughts that we can use to help us gain more merits.
Overall, this experience at the retreat was great because I learnt so much about the
Buddha and how we should apply his teachings into our lives. I learned to be mindful, focused,
and most of all, respectful to everyone around me. I also learned to be kind and compassionate
with every action and thought. It was also very easy to learn the dhamma because all the aunties
and uncles devoted their time and effort to be there for us, and the Bhantes were especially kind
and caring to help us learn more. I hope to continue coming to this retreat for future years, and
may everyone be well, happy, and peaceful.
Thank you,
Theruwan saranai
Sumindee Jayasinghe
GBV Katina 2025 - Upcoming Events
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GBV Katina 2025 - Katina Aradhana & Upcoming Events
GBV Katina 2025 - Rainy Season Invitation
Katina Ārādhana & Upcoming Events
July 10 - October 18
Dear Devotees of Georgia Buddhist Vihara and Friends,
We warmly invite you and your families to participate in this year’s Vassana (Rains Retreat) season, which begins on July 10 and culminates in the Katina Ceremony on October 18, 2025.
This year’s Katina will be especially meaningful, as it will be organized in collaboration with our community's youth. This unique opportunity will allow them to cultivate leadership, generosity, teamwork, and a deepened connection to the Dhamma while taking on a central role in planning and service throughout the season.
As we prepare for the sacred Vassana season, we are excited to share several upcoming events and activities that will offer rich opportunities for learning, service, and spiritual growth:
• Katina Ārādhana: Thursday, July 10th (7:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
Formal invitation of the Bhantes to reside at the temple and be cared for the duration of the three-month rains retreat.
• Daily Atavisi Buddha Pooja: Every Day (7:00 PM)
Kindly sign up for the Daily Atavisi Buddha Pooja (in person only) using the link below. If no one has signed up for the Atavisi Buddha Pooja on the day of your dana then, if possible, please bring flowers, candles, and fruit juice for pooja.https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090C4AA9AA22A1FF2-57470892-atavisi
• Saturday Dhamma Sermons: (Time Chosen by Hosting Family)
Every Saturday there will be an opportunity to sponsor a sermon. Kindly sign up for the Saturday Dhamma Sermons using the link below. To arrange your sponsor time, please speak directly with Bhante Wajirabuddhi Thero.https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090C4AA9AA22A1FF2-57470900-saturday
• Clean-Up (Shramadāna): Bi-Weekly
Collective action to clean up and prepare for the Katina ceremony (A chance to engage in mindful service and community spirit). Kindly sign up for the Clean-Up Sessions using the link below. If you've signed up, please make an effort to participate at least once a month.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090C4AA9AA22A1FF2-57471762-katina
• Daily Dana: (For Katina Season Only)
If you wish to make any changes to your dana date, are unable to bring dana, or would like to request a specific date please send a text to 770-870-9897
• Pirith Chanting & Pahan Pooja: Saturday, October 4th (7:00 PM)
To invoke blessing and protection to all devotees, there will be a Seth Pirith Chanting and Pahan Pooja. More information will be conveyed later.
• Katina Ceremony: October 18th (6:00 AM - 5:00 PM)
The Katina Ceremony will conclude the Vassa Season for 2025. Kindly join us to rejoice the merits gained throughout the Vassa Season.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Katina Hosting Committee
Please email gabvkatina2025@gmail.com
OR
Send a text message to 770-870-9897 if you have any questions or concerns.
I began to understand the beauty of mindful movement.
By: Deshon
As many of you know, I am Deshon Aiya. I’ve been attending the youth retreat since I was 12, entering my teenage years. From that very first experience, I felt a sense of purification that has drawn me back year after year—except during the pause brought on by COVID. Thankfully, I returned in 2023 and have continued ever since.
That first retreat was life-changing, even though waking up early in the morning was (and still is) difficult, especially for someone like me who barely sleeps at night. I’ve always been more of a night owl, somehow managing to f
unction with little to no rest. This year was no exception. On the night before Day 3, I joined the retreat after a long and tiring day, just as everyone was heading to bed. I found myself sleeping on the hardwood floor with my semi-luxurious low mattress. Despite the noise from chatty kids and loud snoring, and despite my restless mind and annoying itchiness, I strangely found comfort in the firm support of the floor. It reminded me that even discomfort can have its own kind of peace.
Luckily, on the second night, I moved to the upstairs shrine room and slept better. These minor struggles aside, the retreat serves as a powerful reminder to live meaningfully and not just drift through life chasing distractions and pleasures.
Our days began early—around 4:30 AM—with warm drinks and silent meditation in the dhamma hall, chilled by the AC. That early morning meditation, despite its physical challenge, brings a kind of peace hard to find elsewhere. The indoor walking meditation, especially, stood out to me this year. Though it was difficult at first, I began to understand the beauty of mindful movement. Feeling each step, the cool sensation beneath my feet—it felt like I was finally doing it right. That simple act grounded me more deeply than I can describe.
Bhante Deepankara, as always, guided us with wisdom and compassion. His teachings come from a place of deep empathy and understanding, helping us stay positive and reflective.
There were also fun and lighthearted moments, like the group play competition. We had to perform a skit based on a Buddhist topic in a specific genre. We even had to chant, not sing, to avoid breaking a precept (“nacca-gīta vādita…”). That part sparked some giggles and awkward moments, but it lightened the mood and gave us all something to laugh about.
Bhante Kondanna Thero, visiting from New York, replaced the usual post-COVID art session we would’ve had with Bhante Piyananda. This year, we made paper lotus flowers using colorful paper and Styrofoam cups. Though I don’t consider myself artistic, the activity felt like a form of passive meditation—creative, peaceful, and joyful. Some surprised themselves with their creations.
Then came one of the most impactful moments for me: Dr. Deeptha’s Abhidhamma class. We hadn’t studied this topic in depth since 2019, and it absolutely blew my mind. The 17 moments of sensory perception, broken into processes that happen in a split second, showed me just how intricate and profound the workings of the mind truly are. Learning about the aggregates, the 8 octet, karmic reactions, and how all of this ties into consciousness was awe-inspiring. It was also reassuring to know that karma is not absolute fate. If it were, enlightenment would be impossible. Dr. Deeptha also explained the stages of spiritual progress, like becoming a Sotapanna and beyond, with clarity and passion that made us all eager to learn more.
Dr. Ayesha’s session was equally meaningful. She reminded us of what shraddha/saddha truly means—not blind belief, but confident trust and faith in the Dhamma. Her gentle wisdom encouraged us to understand the purpose behind our good deeds and not just follow rituals without reflection. I hope her talk inspires the younger generation to offer dana and perform meritorious acts with genuine understanding and intention.
This youth retreat is far more than a spiritual sleepover. It's a training ground for personal growth, a gateway to deeper understanding, and a community where meaningful friendships blossom. It strengthens our shraddha, sharpens our awareness, and helps us live by the Dhamma with courage and clarity. We laugh, we learn, and we support one another as spiritual friends—kalyana mitta.
After the retreat, I even stayed 18 extra days with Samanera Rahula (Venura) to continue my practice, and I’m grateful for every moment of it. He’s a wonderful kalyana mitta, and I’m glad we could encourage each other on this path.
I want to thank my mother for encouraging me to attend, and extend deep gratitude to:
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Taniya Aunty & Dr. Deeptha for organizing and educating,
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Sahan Uncle for his constant help (and waking up the boys!),
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Dr. Ayesha for her timely and inspiring discussion,
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Mr. Steve for his session and teaching us Qigong,
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Mr. Justin, whom I missed this year due to my late arrival,
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and every person who contributed to this program and its success.
Let us all stay curious, stay mindful, and stay compassionate. Or in the words of Steve Jobs, “Stay hungry, stay foolish.”
Theruwan Saranai & Namo Buddhaya.
I learned new lessons, and gained a deeper understanding of mindfulness, .......
I learned new lessons and gained a deeper understanding of mindfulness.......
Retreat Reflection by Kaveed Wedamuni Nilamelage Don
Georgia Buddhist Vihara Youth Retreat – May 31 to June 3, 2025
My name is Kaveed Wedamuni Nilamelage Don. I recently moved to the United States. My parents knew about the youth retreat that takes place every year here at the Georgia Buddhist Vihara, and they encouraged me to attend. Having participated in retreats back in Sri Lanka, I assumed this one would be similar, but I was in for a surprise.
May 31, 2025
We arrived at the Vihara around 7:00 AM. I was fortunate to witness a rare and inspiring moment—someone becoming a Buddhist monk. In a country like the USA, this is not something you see often. Around 8:00 AM, we observed the Eight Precepts, followed by meditation at 9:30 AM. Since it was the first day, meditation was quite difficult for me, but I managed to stay focused. It reminded me to be mindful of my actions and thoughts.
Later, we discussed the Buddha's teachings on meditation. At 11:30 AM, we participated in a Buddha Puja and had lunch, practicing mindfulness even while eating—an important part of the precepts. We then cleaned the temple, an act of good karma when done mindfully. At 1:30 PM, we practiced walking meditation, which was challenging. I had to be aware of tiny insects, where I was stepping, and how I moved.
We had an Abhidhamma class next. Though I had learned some in Sri Lanka, it’s always been a difficult subject for me. Still, I learned a lot and enjoyed the interesting discussions. In the evening, we had a Dhamma discussion, and a former Dhamma school student led a fun and thoughtful scavenger hunt to teach us about impermanence. We ended the day with a Buddha Puja and went to sleep around 9:00 PM. Even in just one day, I learned so much about Dhamma, mindfulness, and meditation.
June 1, 2025
Waking up at 4:45 AM was tough—I usually wake up around 6:00 AM. But by 5:30 AM, we were doing our silent candle meditation, the most peaceful way to begin the day. It helped me stay focused and mindful throughout.
After breakfast, we shared our thoughts about mindfulness as a group, followed by another walking meditation session. This time it was easier, and I was more aware of my surroundings. At 11:00 AM, we had our Buddha Puja and lunch. As always, we were reminded to eat and behave mindfully.
After our work period, Justin Howell came to speak to us. He was not born into Buddhism but chose to become a Buddhist later in life. He shared powerful lessons about the dangers of social media, using great examples. His talk left a big impression on me.
We also had another Dhamma talk, and it answered many of our lingering questions from the Abhidhamma class. In the evening, we performed an Atavisi Puja, offering candles, flowers, and water to all the Buddhas. We went to sleep feeling calm and fulfilled.
June 2, 2025
I woke up at 5:10 AM and was lucky not to have to wait for the bathroom like other days! We did our silent candle meditation, which truly feels like an exercise for the mind. Meditation is something I’ve learned to love and value deeply.
After breakfast, we discussed mindfulness again and did more walking meditation. By the third day, it felt much easier and more natural. We also learned new things about meditation techniques.
Later, Steven Reidy visited us and gave a great talk on how people are different from each other. His explanations were easy to understand and made a lot of sense. We also had our final Abhidhamma session where we received answers to even more of our questions.
In the evening, we had a fun Dhamma activity with Ms. Maiha. In small groups, we created and performed stories. Even though my group didn’t win, we enjoyed it and remembered that what we learned about impermanence and mindfulness was more important than winning.
We ended the day with Atavisi Puja and went to sleep after another meaningful day.
June 3, 2025
On the last day, I woke up at 5:15 AM and prepared for our final silent candle meditation. While others were sleepy, I was proud that I could stay awake and focus during meditation. It truly helped heal my mind.
After breakfast, we discussed meditation instead of doing the walking meditation because it was too hot outside. We had a final lunch together and then cleaned the whole temple during our last work period.
Later, one of the aunties taught us about shraddha, which means our deep belief in the Three Jewels—the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha. Then we had a Q&A session where I was able to ask many of the questions I had been wondering about. Some of my friends asked about karma, which led to deep and meaningful discussions.
We ended the retreat with one last Atavisi Puja. Afterwards, we returned home.
Although the retreat lasted only four days, I feel like I learned more than I ever expected. I said at the beginning that I had been to retreats in Sri Lanka—but I can honestly say I loved this one even more. I made new friends, learned new lessons, and gained a deeper understanding of mindfulness, karma, and the Dhamma. I truly hope to attend next year’s retreat again.