Welcome to Mount Shasta Abbey Retreat, a serene oasis nestled in the picturesque town of Mount Shasta in Northern California. Immerse yourself in the teachings of Soto Zen Buddhism, find inner peace, and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery.
Founded in 1970 by Rev. Master Jiyu-Kennett, Mount Shasta Abbey follows the Serene Reflection Meditation (Soto Zen) Tradition. Our Buddhist monastery offers a range of retreats, ceremonies, teaching, and spiritual counseling, providing a tranquil setting for individuals to engage in mindfulness practices, immerse themselves in the teachings of Buddha, and rejuvenate their spirits.
Key Takeaways:
- Experience the transformative power of Soto Zen Buddhism at Mount Shasta Abbey Retreat
- Engage in meditation retreats and immerse yourself in spiritual practices
- Find inner peace and rejuvenate your spirit in the serene surroundings of Mount Shasta
- Explore the teachings of Zen Buddhism and deepen your understanding of mindfulness
- Connect with nature and embark on a journey of self-discovery
About Shasta Abbey
Shasta Abbey is a Buddhist monastery located in the serene town of Mount Shasta, California. Founded in 1970 by Rev. Master Jiyu-Kennett, the monastery follows the Serene Reflection Meditation (Soto Zen) Tradition. It serves as a training place for both male and female Buddhist monks, as well as welcoming lay people who are interested in practicing Buddhism. Shasta Abbey is deeply rooted in the teachings of Venerable Keido Chisan Koho Zenji and is affiliated with the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives.
As a place of practice, Shasta Abbey offers retreats, ceremonies, teaching, and spiritual counseling to support individuals on their spiritual journeys. The monastery provides a tranquil setting, allowing participants to immerse themselves in mindfulness practices, deepen their understanding of Zen Buddhism, and rejuvenate their spirits. The aim of Shasta Abbey is to provide a nurturing space for individuals to connect with themselves, others, and the teachings of Buddha.
At Shasta Abbey, the path of practice is open to all who seek it, regardless of their level of experience. The monastery invites individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in meditation, Dharma talks, ceremonies, and periods of quiet reflection. Whether you are new to Buddhism or a seasoned practitioner, Shasta Abbey offers a supportive community and a wealth of opportunities to deepen your practice and cultivate inner peace.
Retreat Opportunities at Mount Shasta Abbey
At Mount Shasta Abbey, we offer a diverse range of retreat opportunities for individuals seeking spiritual growth and inner peace. Our retreats are designed to provide a tranquil and immersive experience, allowing participants to deepen their understanding and connection to the teachings of Soto Zen Buddhism. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner, our retreats cater to individuals at all stages of their spiritual journey.
Introductory Retreats
Our introductory retreats are perfect for those who are new to the practice of Soto Zen Buddhism. These retreats provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to learn and experience the Serene Reflection practice in a monastic setting. Participants receive meditation instruction, engage in seated meditation, attend Dharma talks, and have opportunities for informal discussions and spiritual counseling. By the end of the retreat, you will have a solid foundation in Soto Zen and be ready to embark on further retreats and practices.
Continuing Practice Retreats
For individuals who have already attended retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey or other temples in the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives, our continuing practice retreats offer an opportunity to deepen your understanding and practice of Buddhism. These retreats focus on the fundamentals of Buddhism, meditation, and contemporary practice. Participants engage in seated meditation, working meditation, ceremonies, chanting, and have ample time for quiet reflection and individual practice. Our experienced teachers are there to guide and support you as you delve deeper into your spiritual journey.
Celebratory Retreats
Celebratory retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey provide a more relaxed schedule and offer opportunities for monks and lay friends to spend informal time together. These retreats are open to individuals who have previously attended an introductory retreat at the Abbey. They provide a space for connection, celebration, and deepening relationships within the community. The retreats may include ceremonies, meditation, Dharma discussions, and social events. Join us for a joyous and rejuvenating retreat experience.
| Retreat Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Introductory Retreats | Designed for individuals new to the practice of Soto Zen Buddhism. Provides an introduction to the Serene Reflection practice in a monastic setting. |
| Continuing Practice Retreats | Focused on deepening understanding and practice of Buddhism. Open to individuals who have previously attended retreats at the Abbey or other temples in the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives. |
| Celebratory Retreats | Provides a more relaxed schedule and opportunities for informal time with monks and lay friends. Open to those who have attended an introductory retreat at the Abbey. |
Introductory Retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey
If you are new to the practice of Soto Zen Buddhism, the introductory retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the Serene Reflection practice. Held in a serene and peaceful monastic setting, these retreats offer a comprehensive introduction to meditation and the teachings of Buddha.
During the retreat, you will receive meditation instruction and engage in seated meditation, allowing you to deepen your practice and cultivate a greater sense of stillness and presence. In addition to meditation, there will be Dharma talks, which are enlightening lectures on Buddhist philosophy and teachings. This will help you gain a deeper understanding of the Serene Reflection practice and its application in daily life.
Along with the structured program, there will be opportunities for informal discussions and spiritual counseling, where you can seek guidance and clarification on your spiritual journey. To familiarize yourself with the monastery, a tour of the Abbey is also included, allowing you to explore the tranquil surroundings that support your retreat experience.
Is an Introductory Retreat a Prerequisite?
Yes, attending an introductory retreat is a prerequisite for joining other retreats offered by Mount Shasta Abbey. This requirement ensures that participants have a foundational understanding of the Serene Reflection practice and are ready to deepen their practice in more focused and intensive retreats. So, if you are interested in exploring different retreat options at the Abbey, starting with an introductory retreat is the first step to embark on your spiritual journey.
| Retreat Details | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Duration: 3-5 days |
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| Pre-requisite: None |
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| Who can attend: Beginners to Soto Zen Buddhism |
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Continuing Practice Retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey
If you have previously attended retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey or other temples in the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives, the continuing practice retreats are designed to deepen your understanding and practice of Buddhism. These retreats focus on the fundamentals of Buddhism, meditation, and contemporary practice, providing a space for you to explore and cultivate your spiritual path.
During the continuing practice retreats, you will have the opportunity to engage in seated meditation, working meditation, ceremonies, chanting, and quiet reflection. The retreats offer a supportive environment where you can further develop your meditation practice and connect with like-minded individuals on the same spiritual journey.
Through the guidance of experienced teachers, you will dive deeper into the teachings of Buddhism and gain valuable insights into the application of these teachings in your daily life. The continuing practice retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey are a valuable opportunity to nurture and nourish your spiritual growth, allowing you to integrate Buddhism into your contemporary lifestyle.
Buddhism Fundamentals
The continuing practice retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey focus on the fundamentals of Buddhism, providing a solid foundation for your spiritual practice. You will have the chance to deepen your understanding of core Buddhist teachings, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the principles of mindfulness and compassion.
Through guided meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and discussions, you will explore the key concepts and principles of Buddhism and learn how to apply them in your daily life. The retreats offer a space for reflection and introspection, allowing you to cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and wisdom.
Contemporary Practice
While rooted in tradition, the continuing practice retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey also emphasize contemporary practice, acknowledging the relevance and applicability of Buddhism in the modern world. You will explore how to integrate Buddhist principles and practices into your daily life, finding ways to bring mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom into your relationships, work, and personal well-being.
By examining contemporary issues through a Buddhist lens, you will gain fresh perspectives and insights that can help you navigate the challenges of modern living with greater clarity and equanimity. The retreats offer a balance between tradition and innovation, providing a space for you to deepen your practice while remaining connected to the needs and realities of the present moment.
| Benefits of Continuing Practice Retreats | Components of Continuing Practice Retreats |
|---|---|
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Celebratory Retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey
If you are looking for a retreat experience that combines spiritual practice with a relaxed schedule and informal time, the celebratory retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey are the perfect choice. These retreats provide a unique opportunity for monks and lay friends to come together, deepen their connections, and celebrate their spiritual journeys in a supportive community.
During the celebratory retreats, participants can expect a more relaxed schedule compared to other retreats at the Abbey. The focus is on fostering a sense of camaraderie and creating space for informal interactions. This allows attendees to get to know one another, share experiences, and form lasting friendships.
Table: Activities during Celebratory Retreats
| Activities | Description |
|---|---|
| Ceremonies | Participants will have the opportunity to take part in traditional ceremonies, which may include chanting, incense offerings, and other rituals. |
| Meditation | A variety of meditation practices will be offered, allowing individuals to deepen their mindfulness and cultivate a sense of inner peace. |
| Dharma Discussions | Informal discussions will take place, providing a platform for participants to explore and inquire into the teachings of Buddhism. |
| Social Events | There will be opportunities for socializing, sharing meals, and engaging in activities that promote a sense of joy and celebration. |
It’s important to note that participation in celebratory retreats requires attending an introductory retreat at Mount Shasta Abbey beforehand. This ensures that all participants have a basic understanding of Soto Zen Buddhism and are familiar with the monastery’s practices and traditions.
If you are seeking a retreat experience that combines spiritual growth with a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere, these retreats offer the perfect opportunity to deepen your practice, form connections, and find joy in the journey. Come join us at Mount Shasta Abbey and celebrate the beauty of the present moment.
Meditation Retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey
Experience the transformative power of meditation at Mount Shasta Abbey’s meditation retreats. These three-day retreats provide a unique opportunity for experienced practitioners to deepen their meditation practice and cultivate a greater sense of stillness and presence. The retreats focus primarily on meditation, allowing participants to engage in multiple periods of seated meditation throughout the day.
One of the distinctive features of the meditation retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey is the practice of silent meals. During mealtimes, participants maintain a contemplative atmosphere by refraining from conversation, creating a peaceful and introspective dining experience. This unique practice supports the cultivation of mindfulness and deepens the connection between body, mind, and nourishment.
Designed for experienced practitioners, these retreats do not include Dharma talks or spiritual counseling. Instead, the emphasis is placed solely on the practice of meditation and the development of presence and awareness. By immersing yourself in the serene environment of Mount Shasta Abbey and dedicating focused time to meditation, you can further enhance your meditation practice and find profound inner peace.
The Benefits of Meditation Retreats
Participating in meditation retreats provides a multitude of benefits for experienced practitioners. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Deepening your meditation practice: Retreats offer the opportunity to dedicate focused time to meditation without the distractions of daily life, allowing for a deeper level of concentration and insight.
- Fostering inner peace: Retreats provide a serene and supportive environment where you can let go of stress and connect with a profound sense of inner calm and tranquility.
- Enhancing mindfulness and awareness: Through extended periods of meditation, retreats help to cultivate present-moment awareness and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection.
- Connecting with a community of practitioners: Retreats offer the chance to connect with like-minded individuals on the path of meditation, providing a supportive and inspiring community for growth and learning.
By participating in meditation retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey, you can tap into the transformative power of meditation, deepen your practice, and experience a greater sense of peace and clarity in your daily life.
| Retreat Dates | Focus |
|---|---|
| April 15-17, 2022 | Mindfulness Meditation |
| July 22-24, 2022 | Loving-Kindness Meditation |
| October 7-9, 2022 | Insight Meditation |
Week-Long Retreats
Week-long retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey offer a profound opportunity to delve into the fundamentals of Buddhism, explore Buddhist scriptures, and engage in contemplative practice. These retreats provide a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing participants to deepen their understanding and connection to the teachings of Soto Zen. The week-long retreats are open to individuals who have formally taken the Buddhist Precepts or have previously attended retreats at the Abbey or other temples in the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives.
During the retreats, participants engage in various practices, including seated meditation, working meditation, ceremonies, chanting, silent meals, and periods of quiet reflection. The structured schedule of the retreat provides a supportive environment for individuals to fully immerse themselves in the teachings and practices of Buddhism. Through deepening their meditation practice and exploring the wisdom contained in Buddhist scriptures, participants cultivate a greater sense of clarity, insight, and inner peace.
Throughout the week-long retreats, experienced monks and teachers guide and support participants, offering Dharma talks and guidance on the path of Buddhism. These retreats provide an opportunity to step away from the busyness of daily life and dive deeply into the transformative power of contemplative practice. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to Buddhism, the week-long retreats at Mount Shasta Abbey offer a space for deep exploration, self-discovery, and spiritual growth.
Extended Stays and Residential Training
Embark on an immersive journey of spiritual development and personal growth with extended stays and residential training at Mount Shasta Abbey. As a lay resident, you have the unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the monastic schedule and deeply engage with the teachings and practices of Soto Zen Buddhism.
Monastic Schedule: During your extended stay, you will join the daily activities of the monastery which include meditation, working meditation, ceremonies, Dharma talks, and discussions. By following the monastic schedule, you create a conducive environment for inner reflection and transformation.
Lay Residents: As a lay resident, you will be part of a vibrant community of individuals dedicated to their spiritual training. The Abbey welcomes lay residents who have attended an introductory retreat and wish to further their practice within the refuge of the monastery.
Benefits of Extended Stays and Residential Training
By choosing residential training, you prioritize your spiritual growth and take a step back from your everyday engagements. This focused training provides a unique opportunity to cultivate mindfulness, deepen your meditation practice, and gain insights into the core teachings of Buddhism.
Throughout your residential training, you will have regular meetings with senior monks to reflect on your progress, receive guidance, and discuss any questions or challenges you may encounter along the way.
| Benefits of Extended Stays and Residential Training: |
|---|
| Opportunity for deep immersion in the monastic schedule |
| Access to weekly focused Dharma discussions |
| Participation in three-day meditation retreats |
| Regular meetings with senior monks for guidance and reflection |
Experience the transformative power of extended stays and residential training at Mount Shasta Abbey. Take this unique opportunity to enhance your spiritual practice, find inner peace, and cultivate a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you. Embrace the monastic lifestyle and embark on a path of self-discovery in the serene and supportive environment of the Abbey.
Sunday Services at Mount Shasta Abbey
If you are looking for a spiritual experience, consider attending the Sunday services at Mount Shasta Abbey. These services offer a chance to visit the monastery, participate in ceremonies, and engage in communal practice. The Abbey welcomes both monks and lay visitors, creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all.
During the Sunday services, you can witness traditional Buddhist rituals, such as incense offering and chanting of scriptures. These practices create a serene and contemplative atmosphere that allows for deep reflection and connection. After the ceremonies, there is a Dharma talk where experienced monks share teachings and insights to inspire and guide your spiritual journey.
In addition to the regular Sunday services, the Abbey occasionally holds Meditation Sundays. On these special occasions, you can join a 40-minute meditation period with monks and other visitors. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the transformative power of meditation and cultivate inner stillness and presence.
| Service Schedule: | Location: |
|---|---|
| Sunday Services: | Mount Shasta Abbey |
| Meditation Sundays: | Mount Shasta Abbey |
Attending the Sunday services at Mount Shasta Abbey provides a unique chance to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the monastery and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to Buddhism, these services offer a valuable opportunity for growth, inspiration, and deepening your practice.
Conclusion
Mount Shasta Abbey Retreat provides a transformative experience for individuals seeking inner peace, mindfulness, and spiritual growth. Located in the picturesque town of Mount Shasta, this Buddhist monastery offers a range of retreats and opportunities for individuals to deepen their practice of Soto Zen Buddhism.
Whether you are new to Buddhism or an experienced practitioner, Mount Shasta Abbey Retreat welcomes you to immerse yourself in its serene environment and engage in seated meditation, attend enlightening Dharma talks, and participate in various ceremonies. With retreats tailored for different levels of experience, from introductory retreats for beginners to week-long retreats that delve into the fundamentals of Buddhism, there is something for everyone to explore and learn.
These retreats not only provide guidance and instruction in meditation, but also create a space for quiet reflection, individual practice, and connection with like-minded individuals on the spiritual journey. The natural beauty surrounding the monastery adds to the sense of tranquility, making it an ideal location for those seeking a nature retreat.
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and join Mount Shasta Abbey Retreat to cultivate mindfulness, deepen your understanding of Zen Buddhism, and nurture your spiritual growth. Let the teachings and practices of Soto Zen guide you towards a state of inner peace and harmony.
FAQ
What is Mount Shasta Abbey?
Mount Shasta Abbey is a Buddhist monastery located in Mount Shasta, California, that follows the Serene Reflection Meditation (Soto Zen) Tradition.
When was Mount Shasta Abbey founded?
Mount Shasta Abbey was founded in 1970 by Rev. Master Jiyu-Kennett.
What kind of retreats does Mount Shasta Abbey offer?
Mount Shasta Abbey offers a variety of retreats, including introductory retreats, continuing practice retreats, celebratory retreats, meditation retreats, and week-long retreats.
Who can attend the introductory retreats?
The introductory retreats are designed for individuals new to the practice of Soto Zen Buddhism.
Who can attend the continuing practice retreats?
The continuing practice retreats are open to individuals who have previously attended retreats at the Abbey or other temples in the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives.
Who can attend the celebratory retreats?
The celebratory retreats are open to individuals who have previously attended an introductory retreat at the Abbey.
Who can attend the meditation retreats?
The meditation retreats are primarily focused on meditation practice and are open to experienced practitioners.
Who can attend the week-long retreats?
The week-long retreats are open to individuals who have formally taken the Buddhist Precepts or those who have attended retreats at the Abbey or other temples in the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives.
Can I stay at Mount Shasta Abbey as a lay resident?
Yes, individuals who have attended an introductory retreat can extend their stay as lay residents and participate in the daily activities of the monastery.
Can I visit Mount Shasta Abbey for Sunday services?
Yes, Mount Shasta Abbey welcomes visitors to attend Sunday services, which include ceremonies, incense offering, chanting of scriptures, and Dharma talks.
What can I expect from a visit to Mount Shasta Abbey?
A visit to Mount Shasta Abbey offers an opportunity for spiritual growth, mindfulness, and connection to the teachings of Soto Zen Buddhism in a serene and natural environment.
