Dear Friends,

The practice of meditation needs the support of study. In that spirit, I would like to offer 12 full-day retreats in 2016 that combines sutta readings and exposition, dharma contemplation, direct experience, and discussion in an atmosphere that fosters meditative and receptive awareness.

This series of day retreats will focus on one topic a month in the following order. Some rich topics, such as Dana or Satipatthana, may be studied over a few months.

1. Introduction & the Value of Early Buddhist Teachings - Jan 30th

2. The Four Noble Truths - Feb 27th

3. Dana (Generosity)

4. Sila (Morality)

5. Ethics & Intention

6. Tranquility & Insight

7. Brahma Viharas (Lovingkindness, Compassion, Joy, Equanimity)

8. Papanca, Cognition, Mindfulness

9. Satipatthana: Body

10. Satipatthana: Feeling & Mind

11. Satipatthana: Dhammas

12. Awakening

Other than the Pali canon, talks and readings will largely be inspired by my understanding of lecture material from the Barre Center’s “Entering the Path” program, which features eminent teachers such as Bhikkhu Analayo, Jospeh Goldstein, and John Peacock. Guest teachers will also be invited to offer lectures based on availability.

We invite you to find out more in an introductory day retreat on Sunday, Jan 24, so I can gauge interest in the offering and for you to decide whether you'd like to commit to a year of dhamma study together. Depending on interest there may be limited places for drop-ins for these day retreats in latter months.

Date: Saturday, January 30th, 10 am - 5 pm

Location: The Hong Kong Buddhist Association Chan Ma Mee York Memorial Camp

Presenter: Jessica Lam Hill Young

Language: English

Program:

- The Importance of Study & Practice

- A Brief History of the Early Teachings

- Conditions for the Cultivation of Wisdom

- Sutta Reading & Dharma Contemplation

- Sitting & Walking Meditation

- Discussion

- Practice Reflections

Pre-requisites: Have attended at least one 1-week silent meditation. After the introductory retreat, we prefer participants to be committed to the entire series together so we can grow together on the path among a core group of familiar faces. The course topics also build on itself. 

Application: http://www.meetup.com/hkinsightmeditation/events/227473729/

Cost: By donation. Please be generous if possible to help cover the extensive fees that has gone into the program and to support teachers.

Other info: Please remember to bring your own vegetarian lunch. There will be hot and cold drinking water, mats, and cushions provided but welcome to bring your own. Insect repellent, sandals, and a shawl may also be helpful.

Inquiry: jessica.lam.hill.young@gmail.com

Warmly with Metta,

Jessica Lam