May 2019 Birken Retreat (APPLICATION PERIOD CLOSED)

Birken Forest Monastery (Sitavana)
May 1 – 15, 2019
Ajahn Sona Retreat on Right Effort

Join the Pacific Hermitage monastics and lay community members  for this opportunity to deepen your meditation practice in a beautiful British Columbia setting.  Applications accepted starting November 1.  Visit Ajahn Sona’s  YouTube channel to see why he is respected as such a gifted and clear teacher!

New:  Use Retreat Website to Apply

The application period is closed, but you can apply to be on the wait list using the Retreat Website.  Browse for information or click on”Apply” to fill out the application form.  The application period begins November 1.   Ajahn Sudanto will make the final decision on the list of participants.

Attend for One Week or Two

Once again, we are offering the option of coming for one or two weeks.  If you’re a less experienced meditator or have less flexibility, you can request only the first or second week.  More experienced meditators may find the full 14-day option more beneficial.  Here are the dates/options:

Week #1 (May 1 to 8) – Arrive the evening of May 1 and depart early May 8.
Week #2 (May 8 to 15) – Arrive the evening of May 8 and depart early May 15.
Both Weeks (May 1 to 15) — Arrive the evening of May 1 and depart early May 15.

Birken Monastery is Beautiful Inside and Outside 

Birken Forest Monastery is south of Kamploops, in British Columbia.  Meditate in the peaceful sala or on the indoor walking paths, or take your meditation outside in the fresh air, amidst trees, ponds, lakes and trails.  Visit the Birken website for more information and pictures.  Be sure to look at “Visits” and read the Guest Guidelines.

Retreat is Offered on Dana Basis

There is no cost for the retreat.  It is offered on a “dana” basis.  You give what you feel called to/are able to give.  Food and lodging are included.  Like the Hermitage, Birken is supported only by offerings from lay supporters.

Questions?  Apprehensive?

Almost everyone is a little apprehensive about going to their first retreat, wondering if they’re really up for it, will be able to handle it, etc.   Don’t feel self-conscious about asking questions or talking about what might hold you back.

Spend some time exploring the Birken and Retreat websites and talking with others who have attended Birken retreats, then feel free to email our retreat coordinator, Chevy, with questions.  Please do not contact Birken Monastery.  They have limited staff and time to devote to questions.

More information will be added to the retreat website as it’s developed, including ride sharing and travel details.