This silent retreat will introduce the three levels of practice with the focus on Amitabha Buddha. Amitabha Buddha name means Infinite Light Buddha and is associated with the west. He is often called a meditation buddha. This retreat will be looking at the speech, meditation, and ultimate mind of Buddha practice. This is a very profound practice bringing significance understanding and technical details to your Buddhist path.
Amitabha Buddha and the associated practices we will be learning are based on concepts that fall under the Mahayana umbrella of Buddhism. In particular, the Pure Land school of Buddhism focuses almost exclusively on these practices.
The retreat will consist of sitting and walking meditations, dharma talks, interviews with the teachers, and some meditative activities.
This retreat is a great opportunity for people who have never been on a retreat and want to try it out before committing to a longer retreat. You should have some meditation experience and it is strongly encouraged that you sit with our group a few times prior to the retreat to meet the teachers and get a sense of the type of meditation we will be doing.
The retreat will be held at Lazy M Lodge, a peaceful oasis located near Caroline, a short 2 hour drive north-east of Calgary. All meals will be provided, including Thursday dinner and Monday lunch. Accommodations are shared but private rooms may be possible depending how many participants we have.
Meditation cushions will be available but if you have your own cushions and zabutons please bring them to ensure we have enough for everyone.
Retreat Start: 6pm, Thursday May 16
Retreat End: 12pm, Monday May 20
Retreat Costs
| Early bird (Before April 18) | $550 |
| Regular | $600 (April 18 – May 14) |
| Upgrade | +$150 (May 10 – May 16, if available) |
Cancellation policy:
| On or before April 18 | Full refund (minus $10 cancellation fee) |
| After April 18 | All cancellations after April 18 will be processed May 25 and depend on actual retreat costs (minus $50 cancellation fee). For example, if you cancel after April 18 and we do not have enough participants to cover the minimum charges, you will not receive a refund. |
To register please fill out the form at the link below. Your place will not be guaranteed until you submit payment. Payment can be made by email, cheque or cash. Details will be sent after you submit the registration form.