Arlene Kroeker is a creative writer and lifelong Richmond resident who quips she may be “becoming Chinese.”
This, only after the 57-year-old rooster discovered Bodhi Meditation Centre on Alderbridge Way as a means of healing a sore hip some years ago.
“As I’ve been here I’ve been getting more immersed in the Chinese culture and learning more,” explained Kroeker.
Bodhi is a registered charitable organization in Canada and a burgeoning Buddhist-based healing movement across the globe, as centres continue to pop up in new countries, after the first one was founded in China by Master JinBodhi. Richmond’s centre is largely volunteer run and is open to the entire community, regardless of spiritual and religious background.
“Bodhi became my foundation. Life is still swirling around, life is still happening but I’ve got this foundation to stand on and I’ve learned through the meditation there is no good or bad, everything is just what it is. I keep meditating because I like that place of centredness,” said Kroeker, who simultaneously maintains her Christian roots and values.
On Friday, Bodhi members will open their doors to the public for a free feast and celebration throughout the evening to celebrate Chinese New Year.
“When it comes to Chinese New Year, it’s another opportunity to just celebrate and express my gratitude to Master Jin Bodhi and all the volunteers,” said Kroeker, who also teaches classes at Bodhi, which are free for any member after registering for a $30 fee.
A vegetarian feast will be served in the main hall Friday night (6:30 p.m.), followed by a blessing ceremony (10:30 p.m.) for Buddha, preceded by a dragon dance, lion dance and musical performances.
There will be “East meets West” Bollywood dancing and line dancing, to boot.
Bodhi spokesperson Hanson Ng said it’s the inclusive and diverse nature of the centre that makes it special.
“We see ourselves as serving the community, regardless of what background you’re from. We invite everyone to celebrate with us,” said Ng.
The centre will host a number of events over the weekend, as well.
Each afternoon, Bodhi will host a zen tea house as well as Energy Bagua meditation classes. On Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. there will be incense and candle offerings, for one’s New Year wishes.
Bodhi serves to offer people an alternative or complimentary means of healing the mind and body, noted Ng.
As of 2015, there were 20,000 Bodhi members in Vancouver alone, making it one of the largest charitable organizations in Metro Vancouver, according to the organization.
For event details, call 604-537-2268.
