Etiquette

When visiting a Buddhist centre, remember that everything there has been donated to that centre and sangha to help people practice, learn, and teach Buddhism. Do not waste or misuse anything. The items do not belong to just this centre's sangha but to the one, universal Sangha that exists throughout the universe. To waste or take something without permission is to waste or improperly take what has been given to infinite beings.

Whether one is at home or traveling, do not place Dharma materials on the floor or the seat of a chair. If other space is temporarily unavailable, we may carefully place a book on the arm of a sofa or chair. Preferably, books should be closed and placed neatly on the higher shelves of a bookcase. When turning the pages, do so carefully and do not turn down the edge of the page to mark your place. If using a Buddhist book for study, we may write in it if it is our own copy of commonly printed book. The books, images, and other Dharma materials are not to be taken into bathrooms. 

When we are in the bathroom or are not properly dressed, chant silently. However, when cleaning or doing chores, we may chant aloud. Both silent and voiced chanting will help to purify our past karmas and lead us to rebirth in the Pure Land.