Summer Retreat

Since the time of Buddha's life, the Sangha of monks and nuns gather together annually during the rainy season to observe the Summer Retreat.  They practice together, cultivating the qualities of understanding and loving-kindness. During these three months of retreat, compassion is nourished, wisdom is awakened, and the harmony of spiritual community deepened through mutual support and shared practice.

As the summer retreat season approaches, and inspired by the wishes of many long-time Buddhist practitioners,  we are taking this opportunity to offer a retreat at White Sands Buddhist Center.  While the traditional retreat lasts three months, we are adapting it to a weekend (two-night) retreat to accommodate those who work.  This will allow more people to experience the daily life and spiritual practice of a monastic community. 

It is my sincere hope that your enthusiasm for the Dharma and your wholehearted participation will help create a retreat filled with peace, understanding, mindfulness and loving-kindness. May all the merits generated through this retreat be dedicated to our ancestors, grandparents and parents. May those who are still living be blessed with greater happiness, health, and longevity, and may those who have passed away receive the benefit of these wholesome merits and be reborn in peaceful and fortunate realms.  
Namo Shakyamuni Buddha.