The Birmingham Buddhist Centre is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to the advancement and dissemination of Buddhist teachings and meditation practices. Registered as a charity with the number 516568, the Centre aims to provide an accessible and relevant approach to exploring Buddhism and meditation, fostering a supportive community for spiritual development[1][2].

Background and Affiliation

The Centre is part of the worldwide Triratna Buddhist Community, a movement founded in 1967 by Sangharakshita. The name "Triratna" refers to the "Three Jewels" central to Buddhist life: the Buddha as the exemplar, the Dharma (his teachings), and the Sangha (the spiritual community). The Birmingham Buddhist Centre operates within this tradition, emphasizing the ethical and spiritual practices prescribed by the Triratna Buddhist Order[3].

Activities and Facilities

The Centre provides various spaces for meditation and community engagement, including a large shrine room, multiple meditation areas, a yoga studio, a café with complimentary tea and coffee, and a garden designed for quiet reflection. Visitors are welcome to use these facilities during daytime hours, engaging in personal meditation or participating in events and classes offered by the Centre[1][3].

In addition to meditation and teachings, the Centre supports ethical living in accordance with Buddhist precepts. Members of the Triratna Buddhist Order affiliated with the Centre commit to following ten ethical precepts aimed at cultivating wisdom and compassion in everyday life. The Centre encourages both its members and the wider community to integrate these principles into their lives[3][4].

Mission

The primary mission of the Birmingham Buddhist Centre is the advancement of Buddhism by encouraging individuals to live according to Buddhist teachings. This encompasses spreading knowledge of meditation, supporting ethical conduct, and fostering a spiritual community that embodies the values of wisdom, compassion, and mindfulness[2][4].

Summary

• Name: Birmingham Buddhist Centre
• Charity Number: 516568
• Location: Moseley, Birmingham, United Kingdom
• Affiliation: Triratna Buddhist Community
• Focus: Teaching meditation, spreading Buddhist teachings, ethical living, community building
• Facilities: Shrine room, meditation spaces, yoga studio, café, garden, bookshop[1][3][4]

The Birmingham Buddhist Centre continues to serve as a vibrant hub for those interested in exploring Buddhism, meditation, and mindful living in the West Midlands region.

[1] https://www.birminghambuddhistcentre.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/516568 [3] https://www.birminghambuddhistcentre.org.uk/about-us/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/516568/governing-document [5] https://www.charitychoice.co.uk/friends-of-the-western-buddhist-order---midlands-15241