Monastic traditions throughout the world vary widely in their practices, prayer life, and precepts, but they do share some consistent and universal elements. Their communities are often located in the peaceful and serene surroundings of the natural world, where those living life in the fullness of their faith can commune with the sacred through the beauty and stillness found outside of the movements and bustle of urban environments. And while the rhythms of their daily routines can be quite different from tradition to tradition, the monastic life is defined by the habituation of periods of prayer and meditation throughout the course of the day—especially emphasizing the beginning and ending of their days in gathering for group practice and liturgy.
This retreat is offered by Saccadharo Todd Brown, visiting resident of Mountain Light Retreat. Inspired by monastic spirituality and interreligious theological approaches, Todd will lead meditation and liturgical chanting sessions within the beauty and natural surroundings of the Mountain Light Retreat chapel—helping us all to ground ourselves in contemplative living, to further habituate a daily spiritual practice for ourselves, and to carry a continued sense of presence and prayer as we move through our daily lives and activities—to live life fully.
The days will include formal sitting and walking meditation sessions, morning and evening chanting liturgies, and simple breakfast, lunch, and tea offerings with discussion and instruction in the dining hall. The structure of and instruction during the gatherings are rooted in the Buddhist tradition, but are not limited to any specific religious affiliation and may integrate the teachings of other contemplative traditions as well. All are welcome and encouraged to participate.
To reserve an overnight space at the retreat, contact Debbie@mountainlightretreatva.com. To RSVP for meals or for more information, contact todd.mountainlight@gmail.com.
Full Schedule
Sunday, September 22: 7-8:45 pm, Meditation and evening chanting, receiving the precepts; 8:45 pm Tea
Monday and Tuesday, September 23-24: 5-6am Meditation, 7-8:45 am Meditation and morning chanting, 8:45 am Simple Breakfast (coffee/tea, yogurt, fruit); 12:15-1 pm Meditation, 1:00 pm—Simple Lunch (coffee/tea, lentils, rice), 5-5:30 pm Meditation, 5:30 pm light snack, 7-8:45 pm Meditation and evening chanting, 8:45 pm Tea
Wednesday, September 25: 5-6 am Meditation, 7-8:45 am Meditation and morning chanting, 8:45 am Simple breakfast, 9:30-10 am Clean room and depart
Drop-ins: All are welcome to drop-in for any of the meditation sessions or meals as your time allows. If arriving for meditation after the opening bell, please be mindful of your noise level upon entering—and come in and take a seat!
There is no registration or fees, but please do make donations toward the retreat costs as you feel led to do so.