Awakening in Service and Action: A Study Retreat on Socially Engaged Buddhism

“NOTE: All Young Adult Rates and Scholarship funds for this retreat have been allocated

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE “”Supported by the ongoing generosity of our sangha, we have the good fortune to begin construction in the spring of 2014 on our lower campus for a permanent Community Hall and support buildings. Our upper campus, where your residential retreat occurs, is not part of the construction. While some ambient machinery sound may travel, it will not be continuous or nearby. Construction will take place during business work hours (Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 4:00pm) and Spirit Rock will be open throughout construction. Conditions for meditation practice are rarely perfect and environmental sounds are just another subject for our mindful attention. Teachers will give guidance on how to use it as a basis for your practice. Thank you for supporting our efforts and continuing your practicing at Spirit Rock during this time. We look forward to supporting you on retreat.””

~ Spirit Rock Teachers Council

RETREAT INFORMATION The path of socially engaged Buddhism is a path connecting inner and outer transformation. It is about coming to see that our real work is the same whether we are in silent practice, with our families or communities, or helping to transform our larger society and ecosystems. It is to be aware and present to what is happening, to respond wisely and compassionately to suffering, to understand our interdependence, and to act with grace, equanimity, and passion in difficult circumstances. This retreat will help us to understand and to walk this path more skillfully. It will include two talks a day, discussion, guided meditations, interactive exercises, and individual meetings with the teachers, all in the context of about two-thirds of each day in silent practice. We will explore a number of central themes related to contemporary socially engaged Buddhism, such as: its roots in traditional teachings and practices; the relationship of individual, group, and community practices to collective transformation; the nature of a Buddhist social analysis (particularly focusing on economics, ecology, and war and peace); how the three poisons (greed, hatred, and delusion) are institutionalized; principles and practices to guide our speech, communication, and work with media; responses to suffering, conflict, and oppression (such as related to race, gender, class, sexual orientation, etc.); non-dual approaches to social action; and visions of the dharmic society. Spirit Rock extends a special invitation to young adults (age 18-26) who wish to attend this retreat at a rate of $25 per night, on a first come, first serve basis. A limited number of special rates are available, please apply early.“