Buddhist life on campus
There is a growing Buddhist community on campus. The Religious Life and Belief Centre aims to provide our Buddhist students with a warm, inclusive, and nurturing environment that fosters spiritual growth, community building, and cultural understanding. By engaging with Buddhist students, we strive to ensure that their needs are met and that they have access to resources and opportunities that enhance their time at the University.
Buddhist Chaplaincy
Surrey currently has two Buddhist Chaplains - Patrick Peht (Theravāda tradition) and Dr Roberta Discetti (Mahāyāna tradition). Both work to foster dialogue and understanding between different faiths on campus and support the Buddhist community.
Events
Patrick hosts Meditation sessions on a Thursday in the Roundhouse at 1pm during term time.
Roberta holds a monthly meeting "Buddhists in Action for Peace" at the Roundhouse.
You can find these sessions on the MySurrey events page.
Buddhist community
We aim to promote a strong sense of understanding and community among Buddhist students and the Surrey community by running events and activities such as meditation sessions, Dharma talks and interfaith dialogues.
Meditation and mindfulness
Recognizing the importance of meditation and mindfulness practices in Buddhism, we provide dedicated spaces on campus for Buddhist students to engage in their spiritual practices. These tranquil spaces, particularly those at the Roundhouse Religious Life and Belief Centre, allow students to take time out from their busy schedules to cultivate inner peace and personal growth.
Buddhist festivals and celebrations
Throughout the academic year, the Buddhist community organise events and celebrations that mark important Buddhist occasions, such as Vesak. These events provide opportunities for the Buddhist community to come together, practice their faith, and share their rich culture with the wider campus community.
Interfaith dialogue and understanding
The Buddhist Chaplaincy is committed to promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding by working closely with other faith-based organizations and initiatives on campus. Through collaborative events and initiatives, we encourage a respectful exchange of ideas and perspectives, fostering a sense of unity and shared understanding among students of diverse faiths and backgrounds.
In conclusion
Buddhist Religious Life and Belief at the University of Surrey is dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive, and enriching environment for Buddhist students. By providing access to spiritual guidance, accommodating cultural traditions, and offering opportunities for community engagement, we aim to ensure that Buddhist students feel valued and empowered throughout their University experience.