You Are Beloved: An Intensive Zen Contemplative Retreat

An invitation to step back from the busy-ness of life and enter into a time of silence, a time to appreciate in new and deeper ways this precious gift of being alive, and appreciate anew the gifts of Earth, as we open our hearts and bask in the Infinite Love that embraces us and affirms us every moment of our lives.

This silent retreat will follow a format in the Zen tradition, taking a posture conducive to stillness, breathing with attention, and allowing the mind and heart to come home to the here and now of each moment. Beginners and seasoned practitioners are all welcome to join. Daily talks, and opportunities for a one-on-one consultation with the Teacher will be offered.

Retreat Director: Ruben L.F. Habito
Co-Teachers: Nona Strong, Alice Cabotaje

Schedule:

Thursday, October 2
Arrival before 5 pm. Registration.
5:30-6:30 pm Dinner
7:00- 8:00 pm Orientation, Introductions
8:00-9:00 pm Zen Contemplative silence (Guided)

Friday-Sunday, Oct. 3-5
6:00 Rise
6:30-7:30 Zen Contemplative silence
7:30- 8:30 Breakfast (in silence)
8:30-9:00 Chores
9:00- 12:00 Morning Session
9:00- 9:30 Zen Contemplative silence
9:30-10:15 Talk, Q&A
10:15-10:45 Break
10:45- 12:00 Zen Contemplative silence. (One-to-one consultations with Teacher)
12:00-1:00 Lunch, Rest
2:30-3:00 pm Tea Ceremony
3:00- 4:00 pm Zen Contemplative silence (One-to-one consultation with Teacher)
4:00-4:45 pm Individual Contemplative walk (in silence), Free movement
4:45-5:15 pm Open Forum on Matters of Practice and Spiritual Path
5:15-5:30 Sitting together in silence (facing one another)
5:30-6:30 Dinner
7:30-8:30 Zen Contemplative silence
8:30-9:00 Sitting in silence face to face. Closing Chants, Exhortations

Monday, October 6
6:00 am Rise
6:30-7:30 am Zen Contemplative Silence
7:30-8:30 Breakfast
8:30-9:00 Chores
9:00-11:30 Closing session
9:00-9:30 Zen Contemplative silence
9:30- 10:00 Talk
10:00-10:15 Break
10:15- 10:30 Closing Ceremonies
10:30-11:30 Sharing