Overview of Family & Community Activities at Great Tree
Family Meditation Days are open to everyone.
They includes a short period of meditation and Dharma teaching. followed by activities for both adults and children. We may program may include a play, music, movement or other group activity that will compliment the season and the discussion’s theme. During mild weather we may hike or go on a field trip. Winter months may include board games by the fire, reading aloud or origami or other crafts. We end with a potluck snack.
Family Meditation is monthly throughout the year, usually scheduled for the last Sunday of the month, except for August, when Great Tree is resting. July is the Annual Sangha Picnic at The Ledges Park on Riverside Drive and in September, the Annual Anniversary Brunch on the first week-end.In December, Buddha’s Enlightenment Celebration, Ceremony and Craft Sale, becomes the focus for Great Tree Sangha and gathering for all.
Parents, children, and all others interested are welcome to attend. Family Meditation days generally begin at 10:30am and conclude at noon. Tea and light refreshments are potluck.
RSVP by phone or email is helpful. If you wish to be put on the Family Meditation reminder list, please contact us and ask to be reminded or included in updates.
Children’s Retreats
Retreats are usually over-night stays at Great Tree for children up to age 14. They are scheduled throughout the year. Learn more.
Activities include short meditation, chanting, study and learning to work together. Children will have opportunities to learn how to ring bells for service and other simple forms of Zen practice.
Parents do not have to be present but are welcome (if you stay, you may be may be asked to help!)
Mother & Child Retreat - Short overnight stay at Great Tree for mothers and their children. Activities are age appropriate, time for mothers alone and children together to begin a foundation of family practice together. All ages welcome. All ages welcome. The event is a weekend, beginning on Saturday morning at 9am, but you can make arrangements to arrive on Friday night.
Teen Retreat (ages 14 and up ) – Special time in mid July for older children to experience sitting meditation, help with food preparation, and learn more about practice in a group setting. This retreat includes Dharma teachings, Buddhism study and discussion, meditation and instruction into temple practices.
Summer Intensive: Women in Buddhism: Prajapati’s Path. Undergraduate credit available in religious studies at Mars Hill College (optional). Residential course offers an opportunity for practice and study at Great Tree, desigend by Rev. Munnich and Dr. Katherine Meacham, Prof. of Philosophy and Chair of General Studies at Mars Hill College. 18 and over.
Special Events For Everyone!
Click here to see our Calendar at the top of the page comprehensive list of programs and activities and check under Programs for Familyand Sangha activities where all are welcome.
These include ceremonies, gatherings and celebrations.