Kalyana Mitrata - Dharmacharini Retreat

Join us for a Dharmacharini retreat focusing on Kalyana Mitrata. The retreat is for those of us who in some way work with mitras and/or the ordination process - or who would like to get more involved in those areas. Kalyana Mitrata is the life of our Order in many ways; the context for our personal growth, for learning more about how the Dharma manifests in 'real life', for ourselves and others. Friendship and interpersonal communication are often at the open 'rock face' of our practice. And there is the invitation from the Buddha to recognize spiritual friendship as the whole of the spiritual life!

During the retreat we will have lots of time to share our own experiences in teaching, leading, mentoring, befriending. We can learn a great deal from each other's experiences. We'll also have some in-depth study of the Dharma. And, not least, we will together create the context for some private ordinations to take place. (Laura Rivchun, Nancy Artz, and possibly one other) There will also be time for private preceptors to be together in a small group of their own to discuss precepting questions and experiences.

If you have any questions about attending the retreat, contact Amala.

Team: Amala, Ashokashri and Dayanandi

Please note there will be an ordination retreat occurring alongside this dharmacharini retreat.  The public ordination will be at Aryaloka on Saturday September 7th. A separate announcement will be sent regarding attending the ordination. Contact us at alokasetu@gmail.com if you would like to stay on after the conclusion of this retreat.

We strive to make all our retreats affordable regardless of financial circumstances. 

Sliding Scale Retreat Fees: $400 | $325 | $250

• $400, our actual fee for the retreat. It is for people paying their living expenses, and who can afford occasional or regular leisure expenses such as dining out. 
• $325 for those who are paying their living expenses, though experience a consistent tightness in budget that makes extras like leisure activities or unexpected expenses difficult or impossible.
• $250 for those without an income or with an income low enough that making ends meet is a challenge.
• Alokasetu may have funds to help cover travel and retreat costs - if you would like to inquire about financial assistance, please contact us at alokasetu@gmail.com
• If you would prefer to pay by check, please contact us at alokasetu@gmail.com.

Aryaloka Retreat Center Information

This is an IN-PERSON retreat, no online option. Details regarding accommodations and travel may be viewed on the Aryaloka website.

Health and Safety

Please take reasonable precautions to protect against COVID-19 infection in the days leading up to the retreat. If you consider yourself at increased risk you should not attend. We will ask everyone to take a Covid-19 rapid test on the first day of the event and again a few days later.

Food and Work Periods

All food is vegan, with eggs and dairy options on the side.  If you have any food allergies please let us know when you register. 

Accommodations

Aryaloka is located on fourteen acres of woodland and bordered by the winding Piscassic river. Since its founding in 1985, Aryaloka has been a place of spiritual discovery. We are a community dedicated to the study, practice and communication of Buddhist teachings. 

Travel and Carpooling

If you need help organizing a ride please let us know and we will do our best to get you there. If you are driving and can offer rides from Portland, Boston, Portsmouth, or New York, please also let us know. Thank you!