BGR NEWS + TEACHINGS
Satipatthana Part 3: Mindfulness of Dhammas
On Sunday, February 8, 2026, the worldwide BGR community gathered online for the final session in our Satipatthana in Practice series: Mindfulness of Dhammas. Led by Thai Forest monastics and BGR Sangha Council members Ajahn Kovilo and Ajahn Nisabho, this online event explored how we can use the fourth Foundation of Mindfulness, variously translated as “mind objects” or “dhamma categories,” to cultivate beautiful qualities of mind and heart, in both formal meditation and daily life.
BGR’s 2026 New Year Retreat: ‘Promoting Human Unity in a Time of Discord and Division’
We are grateful to all who participated in our online New Year's retreat, “Promoting Human Unity in a Time of Discord and Division.” Led by BGR founder Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi and BGR Sangha Council members BGR Sangha Council members Ayya Ānandhabodhī, Dhammadīpā Roshi, Thubten Lamsel, and Thubten Monlam, this beautiful event offered guidance and inspiration for beginning our new year in the light of the Dharma.
Coming to the Defense of SNAP
BGR co-founder and chair Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi addresses some of the pitfalls that the recently passed “One Big Beautiful Bill” creates for food insecure families living in the United States. He argues that, as people of conscience, we can’t rip plates away from the hands of hungry families. Rather, we must call on our representatives to reverse this heartless bill and ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food.
Support for Children Orphaned by HIV/AIDS in Tanzania
The Save Their Dreams project from BGR partner Mercy World Organization provides school uniforms and supplies, health insurance, school lunches, counseling, and other support to some of Tanzania's most vulnerable children.
A Walk to Feed the Hungry in Portland, Oregon
On November 15, 2025, Portland (Oregon) Friends of the Dhamma hosted the first in-person Walk to Feed the Hungry that has been held in the U.S. since the Covid pandemic compelled BGR to move our annual fundraiser to an online space. The Walk, which also benefited the Portland hunger relief nonprofit Urban Gleaners, was a great success and an inspiring community-building event.
BGR Joins Symposium on Human Dignity at Jewish Theological Seminary
This interfaith conference explored the theme of “Upholding Human Dignity in Turbulent Times.” At the event, BGR founder and chair Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi gave a presentation on a panel on the subject of “Hunger, Displacement, and Civilian Suffering.”
BGR Community: A Smallholder Farmer in Malawi
Farms in Maria’s town in Malawi are failing due to climate shocks and soil degradation caused by industrialized farming. Through training provided by BGR partner Ecology Action, Maria has learned sustainable agriculture techniques to improve yields while conserving resources.
A Holiday Message from Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi
As we come to the end of 2025, please bring forth a heart of compassion and help us give a hand to some of the most needy people in this world.
Embodying the Great Compassion of the Buddha
A letter from BGR's founder and chair, Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi, reflecting on our collective efforts to uplift individuals, families, and communities facing poverty, food insecurity, and social marginalization.
Buddhist Action to Feed the Hungry 2025: Transforming Compassion Into Action
On Saturday, October 25, 2025, BGR founder and chair Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi hosted the 2025 Buddhist Action to Feed the Hungry Online Gathering, “Transforming Compassion Into Action”. A celebration of our shared commitment and community, the event featured Dharma talks and guided meditations from Buddhist monastics and lay teachers as well as introductions to BGR’s work to relieve the suffering of chronic hunger and poverty worldwide.
