Refuge Retreat

Going for refuge sincerely in the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha) is the foundation of the Buddhist path. We need to go for refuge to Dharma – our inner experience of Buddha’s teachings – because this is what directly protects us from our delusions, which are the real source of all our suffering. We need to go for refuge to the Buddhas – the fully enlightened beings – because they teach us Dharma and inspire us to practice it through the transforming power of their blessings. We need to go for refuge to the Sangha – the community of pure spiritual practitioners – because we need their support, advice and encouragement.

The retreat sessions will be in the context of the ritual prayer Essence of Good Fortune. Kadam Mike will give a brief introduction to each session to remind us of what to meditate on, but the meditation itself will be unguided. The meditation will then lead on to silent recitation of the refuge prayer. Since this requires some knowledge and belief in Buddhist teachings this retreat is not suitable for complete beginners.

This retreat is one of the six annual retreats which are an integral part of the TTP (Teacher Training Programme) and all TTP students should attend every session. People who are not on TTP but attend regularly either on Foundation Programme or the general classes are also welcome to attend and can drop into any sessions without booking in advance. A donation of £2 a session would be welcome.