Contemplating Liturgy II: Natural Homecoming—Finding Refuge Through Buddhist Liturgical Reflection
May 1–4, 2025 | Mountain Light Retreat, Crozet VA
The primary theme of the retreat series “Contemplating Liturgy” purposefully holds a double meaning, and will be explored in two senses. The first will be contemplation in the sense of deepening our understanding of the meaning and use of our traditional liturgical texts and practices—thinking about what the liturgy means, both historically and subjectively. The second sense will be to use our developed understanding to cultivate spiritual insight through liturgical meditative reflection and silent contemplation. And to finally see the symbiotic relation between these two modes of liturgical contemplation.
This retreat is the second in a series of events focusing on interreligious liturgical spiritualities, and will be co-led by Buddhist practitioners from two distinct traditions—the Theravada and Vajrayana paths. While the previous retreat was focused on taking refuge in the Buddha and the Guru, this retreat’s theme will be contemplative engagement with the remaining refuges of Buddhist spirituality: the Dharma (reality) and the Sangha (community) through the perspective of the two different Buddhist traditions. This retreat—as with all DCLC programing—is not limited by or restricted to any specific religious affiliation or faith tradition. All are welcome in open exploration of spiritual life and being.
“Natural Homecoming—Finding Refuge Through Buddhist Liturgical Reflection” will be guided by:
§ Lama Konchog Pema—Ordained monastic in the Drikung Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism; and frequent teacher at Satchidananda Ashram Yogaville, Buckingham VA.
§ Saccadhārā Todd Brown—MTS, Harvard Divinity School in Buddhist Studies and Comparative Theology; postulant in a dual-lineage tradition of Zen and Theravada Buddhism; and Visiting Resident at Mountain Light Retreat.
While drop-ins and single-day participation are welcome, the benefit of this retreat is in the continuity of practice and participation. It is recommended to attend the retreat in its entirety—whether by commuting or reserving a room at MLR. Simple breakfast and lunch are provided each day. There are no set fees for the retreat or meals, all is offered on a donation basis and relies solely on the spirit of generosity—feel free to attend any or all of the gatherings as your time and budget allows. All financial offerings go to offsetting the costs of the retreat, meals, and residency.
Registration is encouraged, but not required. RSVPs for any meals are appreciated. To register for the retreat, RSVP for meals, or receive the full retreat schedule for drop-in times, please email: info@divyaloka.org.
To reserve a room at Mountain Light Retreat for overnight stays, please contact Debbie Scott at debbie@mountainlightretreatva.com.