Monastery Governance
Bodhivana Forest Monastery follows clear principles of transparency, simplicity, and accountability to ensure that resources are used solely for the preservation and practice of the Dhamma.
Purpose
- To provide a peaceful place for Dhamma practice and meditation.
- To preserve and support the Theravāda forest tradition.
- To ensure all resources are used in a transparent, ethical, and sustainable way.
Monastery Structure
The monastery follows a structure where spiritual guidance is maintained by the monastic Sangha while practical and legal responsibilities are handled by lay trustees.
- • Abbot / Sangha Council — spiritual guidance
- • Lay Trustees Committee (5–11 members)
- • Chairperson
- • Secretary — documentation and communication
- • Treasurer — accounts and donations
- • Members — support community initiatives
Support Teams
- • Cooking and meal preparation
- • Cleaning and maintenance
- • Building and infrastructure
- • Retreat organization
Financial Transparency
- • Monks do not handle money.
- • All donations are recorded.
- • Large expenses require a 3-signature approval system.
- • Annual reports summarize donations and expenses.
- • Land and property are held in the Trust name.
Safeguards
- • Maintain both paper and digital records.
- • Do not rely on government funding.
- • Rotate trustees every 3–5 years.