Joining the Bhikkhuni Sangha

Ayya Suvijjana Describes her Life on the Path

“In 1998 I was introduced to vipassana at Santa Cruz Insight. Soon after, I visited Abhayagiri Buddhist Monastery in Northern California, and in 2002 I moved to Ukiah to be closer to the monastery. I was drawn to the monastic lifestyle that I saw. Reading the suttas, I became inspired to gain a deep understanding of the Buddha’s teaching. I wanted to dedicate my life fully to the Path. Being a woman in her early 50’s made it difficult for me to find acceptance as a candidate for monastic life. At the places I sought ordination, I did not see the same opportunities that men had. The options for women were few, and they were cultural adaptations inconsistent with the full monastic form.” Click here to read more…