York Chan Retreat Programme 2008

For Chan Retreats and Western Zen Retreats at the Maenllwyd Retreat Centre in Wales - refer to the main WCF website for details www.westernchanfellowship.org

The York Chan Group holds one day and weekend Chan retreats, for extended practice whether or not you are able to get to the Maenllwyd Centre. Retreat descriptions are given below.

The retreat calendar is updated every month.

If you would like to attend, or discuss these retreats further please call or email Jake Lyne 01904 628536; york(at)westernchanfellowship.org

Day Retreats

Next Retreat Sunday February 24th 2008

Suitable for beginners and more experienced practitioners whether Buddhist or not.

We take a vow of silence and establish a monastic community for the day. The format is as in a Chan or Zen retreat, with 30 minute meditation, meditative walking and exercise periods. Meditation instruction and guidance is provided.

There is no charge for day retreats, but please bring food to share. Donations (Dana) are welcome as a contribution to the funds of the York Chan Group.

Times: Arrive at 9.30 a.m. for a start at 10.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Cost: Bring vegetarian food to share and optional donation.

Residential Weekend Retreats

None planned at present

Residential weekend retreats from Friday evening to Sunday evening give a flavour of a full Chan Retreat or Sesshin.

We take a vow of silence and establish a monastic community for the weekend. The format is as in a Chan or Zen retreat, rising at 5 a.m., with 30 minute meditation, meditative walking, work and exercise periods. Meditation instruction, Dharma talks, interviews and guidance are provided. The three main Chan practice methods of working with the breath, silent illumination and Huatou are used according to the needs of individual participants.

There is no charge for Residential retreats and food is provided. There is an optional donation of £25 for the weekend to cover food and other basic costs. If you wish to make further a donation (Dana) this will be welcome as a contribution to the funds of the York Chan Group.

Times: Arrive at 7.30 p.m. on Friday for a start at 8.00 p.m. and close at 4.00 pm on Sunday

Cost: Optional donation for food and other costs £25.

What to bring: thick socks or slippers for indoor use and warm waterproof clothing suitable for walking outside. We provide mats, cushions and stools, but bring your own if you have a meditation stool or a Zen cushion/mat.

Food: vegetarian

Venue: On application

Retreat Leader

Dr Jake Lyne is a Senior Fellow of the Western Chan Fellowship, and leads Chan Retreats under the guidance of Dr John Crook and Master Sheng Yen.