Breaking Hopelessness: Young Voices, Big Change - Guest: Ioana Spataru

In this episode, we are joined by Robert Harrap, dedicated practitioner and leader within the Soka Gakkai tradition, to explore the timeless teachings of the Lotus Sutra. Together, we delve into the story of Bodhisattva "Never Disparaging"(also known as Fukyo), who represents unconditional respect and the dignity of all life, offering us insights for how to navigate modern time challenges. Robert shares his reflections on the transformative power of determination, and the deeper meaning behind the meaning of kosen-rufu—spreading the Buddha’s wisdom widely as a foundation for true world peace. He also recounts his story of recovery from a motorbike accident, where Buddhist principles and practice served as a source of strength and guidance. This conversation invites you to contemplate Buddha nature and dignity within yourself and others and what Engaged Buddhism can mean.

In this episode of the European Buddha Podcast, we sit down with Ioana Spataru from Vienna. Ioana shares her journey of growing up in a Christian Orthodox environment and how she eventually discovered Buddhism. We delve into what draws young people to Buddhism today and explore the vital role of community as a „third place“ in fostering connection How can we build strong and sustainable connections among Buddhist Youth in Europe? Well, connection starts with communication. Communication about what we are all up to, and from that getting invested in projects together. For information and contacts: Roxy Pang and Ioanna Spataru

In this episode we connected with Anna Karolina Brychcy, board member of the German Buddhist Union (DBU). We spoke about her first experience of connectivity and how important it is to get into contact with yourself as a foundation to experience connectivity with others - eventually leading us to core teachings of Buddhadharma. Tune in to find out what key role Buddhism can play in todays society contemplating the Illusion of Separation. https://buddhismus-deutschland.de Donating to the DBU and supporting the important work Buddha Drops - Youtube Format by the DBU

EBU Podcast Summer Series  Join us and be part of our Summer Series. In this segment, we delve into five frequently asked questions about Buddhism, featuring here a conversation with Tsunma Jinpa - nun in the Drikung Kagyu Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The 5 FAQ about Buddhism:  Why meditate?  What did the Buddha realize?  What happens after we die?  What is one of the best teachings you have received?  How can Buddhist teachings support individuals in facing the challenges of modern life?  Please consider making a donation to support the DBU’s mission. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Together, we can help preserve and grow the Buddhist tradition in Germany. Donate here

Summer Series Join us in our latest episode of the European Buddha Podcast, part of our special Summer Series. In this segment, we delve into five frequently asked questions about Buddhism, featuring here conversation with Dario Doshin Girolami - a welcome guest on the EBU Podcast. 5 FAQ Why meditate? What did the Buddha realize? What happens after we die? What is one of the best teachings you have received? How can Buddhist teachings support individuals in facing the challenges of modern life?

Summer Series Join us in our latest episode of the Special Summer Series. In this segment, we delve into a simple but deep question. Why meditate? Zarko Andricevic gives us an answer. 5 FAQ about Buddhism Why meditate? What did the Buddha realize? What happens after we die? What is one of the best teachings you have received? How can Buddhist teachings support individuals in facing the challenges of modern life?

Summer Series Join us in our latest episode of the European Buddha Podcast, part of our special Summer Series. In this segment, we delve into five frequently asked questions about Buddhism, featuring here a trailer of the conversation with esteemed practitioner Žarko Andričević. In this trailer, we have a glimpse on: Why meditate? What did the Buddha realize? What happens after we die? What is one of the best teachings you have received? How can Buddhist teachings support individuals in facing the challenges of modern life? More to come soon!

In this episode of the European Buddha Podcast, we chat with Lama Rinczen, a former monk and Dharma teacher in the Karma Kagyu tradition. Lama Rinczen shares his experiences from traveling across the East and West, highlighting cultural differences and the challenges they pose in teaching the Dharma. We also discuss the profound purpose of a three-year retreat and its transformative impact. Join us in this insightful conversation!

In this episode we had the pleasure to speak with Ven. Clementia Will, nun within the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives - one of the member organization within the European Buddhist Union. The leading question for our question was: What does it mean to lead a Contemplative Life? The Order of Buddhist Contemplatives (OBC) consists of female and male ordained monks – as well as lay ministers. The Order is active in the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Latvia. In addition to two large monasteries in the US and England, and to the many temples and priories that have been founded, many meditation groups and lay communities have also formed over the decades.  The male and female monks in the order are fully equal, and are recognized equally. All have taken celibacy vows, and most of them live together in mixed monastic communities, either in our two large monasteries or in the smaller temples.  The heart and foundation of the practice is Serene Reflection Meditation. A very important aspect of the training is also the effort to keep and act in accord with the Buddhist Precepts. At the very core of the teaching and practice in this tradition is the recognition that all beings possess Buddha-Nature, which gives rise to thinking and acting with compassion, to selfless giving, and to gratitude. https://obcon.org

In this episode, we are honored to be joined by Carlo Luyckx, Vice President of The European Buddhist Union (EBU) and President of the Belgium Buddhist Union. Carlo offers us a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of European Buddhism, where diversity thrives within the backdrop of the European Union's cultural mosaic. With his role as the EBU Liaison Officer to the European Union, Carlo serves as a vital bridge between the Buddhist community and the corridors of power in Brussels. We delve into Carlo Luyckx's encounters with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, including a special moment when Carlo received a statue from him. As we conclude our conversation, we remember the importance of civic engagement in shaping our collective future. With the upcoming elections for the new European Parliament in June, each vote becomes a vital instrument in safeguarding democracy, particularly in these challenging times. Vote for Unity, Vote for Change: Your Voice, Our Future! L'intégrité en politique: une utopie ? (French Edition) - 2022