By Melanie P. Moore, et al.
Each month, we publish a listing of upcoming contemplative and spiritual opportunities recommended by folks here at The Abbey. Many of us have floundered around in the past looking for community and deep engagement with other pilgrims on the spiritual path. Here we share a curated list of what we are finding, in hopes you might find some of it helpful on your journey. We’ve included a Comments section with each listing detailing what we as participants have liked. If you know of something coming up in July or August and would like to have it listed here, please email the information as shown below to editor@theabbey.us by June 18 to be included in the post at the beginning of April. Please note that all times are listed in Central Time.
July
Metanoia Journey’s Sunday In-Person Contemplative Gathering
Dates and Times: Sunday, July 6, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Registration: Not required
Cost: Free
Frequency: Monthly
Duration: 1.5 hours
Format: In person at The Seminary of the Southwest’s Christ Chapel 501 E 32nd St., Austin, TX
Recording Available: N/A
Description: The format of this gathering will include 20 minutes of Centering Prayer, a scripture reading from the sacred texts, a “message” offered by the ministers or guest speakers, community communion, and contemplative music. We invite anyone who wants to participate in performing a role to let us know. Otherwise, just come, rest in God, and receive.
This is a “contemplative service,” with 20 minutes of silent, meditative prayer. For those that attend that have not practiced Centering Prayer before, we have a copy of the brief Guidelines to practice the prayer available at the entry to the Chapel for people to follow along.
At this time, we do not have an area for children to gather separately or have a children’s ministry. Older children are certainly welcome if they can rest in silence during that time.
Comments: This is an opportunity to connect with other contemplative practitioners in person in Austin. While these are primarily Christian contemplative services, all are welcome.
Creating Beauty from the Chaos with Carolyn Scarborough (from Eremos)
Dates and Times: Wednesday, July 9, Noon – 1 p.m.
Registration: Open (this is part of a bi-weekly series; you can register for 1 or all 6)
Cost: Free
Frequency: One-time (series is bi-weekly)
Duration: 1 hour
Format: Zoom
Recording Available: Yes
Description: Known for her inspiring writing circles and coaching practice supporting others in rekindling their creative soul, join Carolyn as she invites you to ignite your creative spark to inspire you to engage with the chaos of these times to make something beautiful in your life.
Comments: We always enjoy this summer series. The topics are thoughtful and the presenters are all very good.
The Five Remembrances with Frank Ostaseski (from Upaya Zen Center)
Dates and Times: Sundays, April 27, May 18, June 8 (recordings available), and July 20; 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Registration: Open
Cost: $200 for the series ($50 deposit required to register)
Frequency: 5 sessions
Duration: Each session is 2 hours
Format: Online
Recording Available: Yes
Description: The Five Remembrances wake us up to the importance of how we care for ourselves and others as we grow older, experience changes in our health and relationships, grieve for what we love and lose, and, finally, face into our own death. They ask us to honor what and who really matters in our one precious life. They invite us to listen and learn by heart, to share the wonder and wisdom of compassionate practice.
Considered to be among the foundational teachings of Buddhism, Frank will help us go beyond a conceptual understanding to bring these five facts of life into our everyday awareness and actions. Embracing their truth encourages and supports us to live with greater intimacy: to act, speak, touch, and love one another in ways that deeply reflect an understanding of constant change, freeing us to be more alive and present.
This five-session course may be of interest to clinicians and caregivers. The course may be equally appealing to individuals, regardless of age, wanting to explore their personal relationship to death and the wisdom therein for living life fully. This course is a co-sponsored event with Upaya Zen Center and the Metta Institute. All are welcome, and no previous experience is required.
Comments: Frank Ostaseski is one of our favorite presenters and this is an important topic for many in this time. While the description states it may be of interest to clinicians and caregivers, we have found his presentations to be accessible to all.
Calligraphy: Painting Bodhidharma (from Upaya Zen Center)
Dates and Times: Friday, July 25 at 8:45 p.m. – Sunday, July 27 at 1 p.m.
Registration: Open
Cost: Donation requested
Frequency: One-time event
Duration: 1 weekend
Format: Online
Recording Available: Yes
Description: Join us for this very special calligraphy program with Sensei Kazuaki Tanahashi, master calligrapher, and Bruce Linton, calligrapher and collector of rare Bodhidharma scrolls. We will have rare Bodhidharma scrolls exhibited in the Taizando and paint variations of the First Zen Patriarch from the assembled paintings, plus create our own unique versions of Bodhidharma. This is the first time a program like this had been offered at Upaya. No previous experience is needed. Kaz will bring brushes and paper. Join us for joy, ink, rice paper, and Bodhidharma!
Sensei Kaz Tanahashi, born and trained in Japan, is an artist, writer, and peace worker, active in the U.S.A. since 1977. As a painter and calligrapher, Kaz has had solo exhibitions of his brushwork, performed, and taught worldwide. He has created a genre of one-stroke paintings and multi-color Zen circles. As a calligrapher in East Asian style, he creates works of large single ideographs. For more information, visit: www.brushmind.net. Joining Kaz to lead this special program is calligrapher, sumi-e painter, and curator of Japanese scrolls, Bruce Linton, PhD. Roshi Joan Halifax and Sensei Wendy Dainin Lau will steward this online program.
Comments: The Upaya Zen Center is an internationally known center of training, education, and lay-person community with a variety of program offerings. Their instructors are experts in their fields yet provide accessible materials and presentations. Our experiences with Upaya programs have always been excellent.
The Tears of Things: Integrating the Prophetic Path (from The Center for Action and Contemplation)
Dates and Times: Self-paced
Registration: Open
Cost: $100 (or $80 or $60, based on financial circumstances)
Frequency: Self-paced with 9 prophetic themes)
Duration: Varies
Format: Online
Recording Available: Yes
Description: A self-guided online course based on Richard Rohr’s new book, “The Tears of Things.” Explore the wisdom of prophets from ancient times to modern day, and discover how we can transform our anger into compassion in our modern “age of outrage.”
“The Tears of Things: Integrating the Prophetic Path” will lead you on a journey from righteous anger at injustice, through grief for the world’s suffering, and—for those committed to the path—finally to grace-filled love for everyone and everything.
Students will explore themes from “The Tears of Things,” like radical grace, collective evil, and the alchemy of tears. Discover deeper meaning in the Hebrew prophets and find inspiration from today’s truth-tellers like Martin Luther King Jr., Dorothy Day, Etty Hillesum, Howard Thurman, Joanna Macy, Fannie Lou Hamer, and Oscar Romero.
This self-guided course offers a flexible online learning experience to explore prophetic themes from the sacred space of your home. You can enroll anytime and access all course materials through CAC Connect, our new online learning platform. Engage with the material in a space that’s safe for questions and deepen your understanding alongside fellow seekers.
Comments: We’ve previously enjoyed many offerings from the CAC and Richard Rohr. This offering is an online, self-paced program based on his new book, but we are not sure if he is speaking in it. There doesn’t appear to be a live portion of this course and we are not sure if there is online interaction (though they usually do offer that).
August
Dogen Seminar: Meeting Paradox in the Teachings of Zen Master Eihei Dogen (from Upaya Zen Center)
Dates and Times: Friday, August 1, at 8:45 p.m. – Sunday, August 3, at 1 p.m.
Registration: Open
Cost: Donation requested
Frequency: One-time event
Duration: 1 weekend
Format: Online
Recording Available: Yes
Description: Reflected in his remarkable writings, Zen Master Eihei Dogen was a master of paradoxes. During this weekend, we will plunge into the writings and teachings of Dogen. We engage in a radical exploration of Dogen’s paradoxes and how they ultimately reveal a deeper truth, hidden in seeming illogicality. Gathered at Upaya and online, our faculty of Dogen scholars, Zen practitioners, and Dogen enthusiasts plunge into the world of Dogen’s extraordinary teachings. Join us and our faculty in unfolding the teachings of Eihei Dogen.
The seminar will be guided by Roshi Joan Halifax, Sensei Kaz Tanahashi, Steven Heine, Sensei Kathie Fischer, Roshi Norman Fischer, Sensei Genzan Quennell, Sensei Jiryu Rutschman-Byler, and others. Roshi Joan and Sensei Wendy Dainin Lau will steward this online program.
Comments: This looks like an interesting program on the concept of spiritual paradox from the Buddhist perspective, especially since many of the Christian contemplatives we are familiar with have written at length about the experience of paradox in spiritual life.
Metanoia Journey’s Sunday In-Person Contemplative Gathering
Dates and Times: Sunday, August 3, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Registration: Not required
Cost: Free
Frequency: Monthly
Duration: 1.5 hours
Format: In person at The Seminary of the Southwest’s Christ Chapel 501 E 32nd St., Austin, TX
Recording Available: N/A
Description: The format of this gathering will include 20 minutes of Centering Prayer, a scripture reading from the sacred texts, a “message” offered by the ministers or guest speakers, community communion, and contemplative music. We invite anyone who wants to participate in performing a role to let us know. Otherwise, just come, rest in God, and receive.
This is a “contemplative service,” with 20 minutes of silent, meditative prayer. For those that attend that have not practiced Centering Prayer before, we have a copy of the brief Guidelines to practice the prayer available at the entry to the Chapel for people to follow along.
At this time, we do not have an area for children to gather separately or have a children’s ministry. Older children are certainly welcome if they can rest in silence during that time.
Comments: This is an opportunity to connect with other contemplative practitioners in person in Austin. While these are primarily Christian contemplative services, all are welcome.
Actualizing Unfaltering Engaged Practice In Our Time – EQUITY with Konda Mason (from Upaya Zen Center)
Dates and Times: Sunday, August 10, noon – 1:30
Registration: Open
Cost: Free, donation requested
Frequency: One-time event (part of the Awareness in Action series)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Format: Online
Recording Available: Yes
Description: Join us in the continued commitment to social and environmental engagement and justice in this very complex time, to exploring the roots of structural violence in our social systems, and to engaging in the world in a courageous way based on contemplative practice and views that actualize non-separateness, interbeing, equity, compassion, justice, integrity, courage, dignity, and unshakable awareness.
This monthly series is stewarded by Roshi Joan Halifax, Sensei Kodo Roen, and Sensei Wendy Dainin Lau.
The faculty for this series includes: Jon Kabat-Zinn, Christiana Figueres, Ruth King, Valerie Brown, Bhikkhu Bodhi, Father Greg Boyle, Terry Tempest Williams, Konda Mason, Rebecca Solnit, Father John Dear, Guo Gu, Tara Brach, Frank Ostaseski, Sharon Salzberg, Roshi Joan, and Senseis Kodo Roen and Dainin Lau.
The focus is on recognizing and ending violence in relation to addressing the roots of war/genocide, racism, climate suffering, economics of exploitation and extraction, othering, and our own delusion that we are separate from any being or thing.
Each Zoom session will include a special introduction, teaching, community reflections, and the dedication of merit and Bodhisattva Vows. These sessions are offered freely, but donations are appreciated.
Comments: Konda Mason is a social entrepreneur, earth and social justice activist and dharma teacher. The Upaya Zen Center is an internationally known center of training, education, and lay-person community with a variety of program offerings. Their instructors are experts in their fields yet provide accessible materials and presentations. Our experiences with Upaya programs have always been excellent.
Practicing the Art of Paying Attention with Rev. Gina Bethune (from Eremos)
Dates and Times: Wednesday, August 13, Noon – 1 p.m.
Registration: Open (this is part of a bi-weekly series; you can register for 1 or all 6)
Cost: Free
Frequency: One-time (series is bi-weekly)
Duration: 1 hour
Format: Zoom
Recording Available: Yes
Description: Explore how consciously strengthening skills of attending to self, nature and others brings awareness of the spirit within and beyond. Honing the practice of engaging silence, prayer, meditation, poetry and journaling can assist us to keep our minds on what matters and bring peace in chaotic times.
Comments: We always enjoy this summer series. The topics are thoughtful and the presenters are all very good.
A Breath Away: Breath Prayers for Wisdom, Peace, and Presence (from Eremos)
Dates and Times: Saturday, August 16, 9:30 a.m. – noon
Registration: Open
Cost: $50
Frequency: One-time event
Duration: 2.5 hours
Format: In-person, St. Matthews Episcopal Church, 8134 Mesa Drive, Austin, TX
Recording Available: N/A
Description: Sometimes we need a different way of praying to help us through difficult moments, open us to possibilities, or remind us we are not alone. We need simple prayer without too many words, one that engages body, mind, and spirit.
Join spiritual director, workshop facilitator, and author Terra McDaniel for a morning exploring, experiencing, and creating Breath Prayers that cultivate life and hope as you breathe them into existence.
Tapping into your inner wisdom and where you are on your life’s journey, Terra will guide you in creating Breath Prayers that nourish your soul, help you access the clarity or direction you seek, and help you open to creative possibilities. Whatever your focus or need, there is a Breath Prayer waiting for you to discover and practice.
Comments: Eremos is known for quality spiritual programming and we have enjoyed the Eremos programs we have participated in. This in-person opportunity is wonderful for anyone in or around Austin, TX. St. Matthews Episcopal Church is a lovely venue with easy parking.
Connecting with Nature Allies with Ecotherapist and poet Kai Siedenburg (from Eremos)
Dates and Times: Wednesday, August 27, Noon – 1 p.m.
Registration: Open (this is part of a bi-weekly series; you can register for 1 or all 6)
Cost: Free
Frequency: One-time (series is bi-weekly)
Duration: 1 hour
Format: Zoom
Recording Available: Yes
Description: Explore how approaching the more-than-human world as kin, friends, and potential allies can help you feel less alone and navigate these chaotic times with more ease and joy. Learn how to recognize and cultivate deeper relationships with your allies, and discover simple yet potent practices for receiving guidance and healing from nature wherever you are.
Comments: We always enjoy this summer series. The topics are thoughtful and the presenters are all very good.
Actualizing Unfaltering Engaged Practice In Our Time – HOPE with Rebecca Solnit (from Upaya Zen Center)
Dates and Times: Sunday, August 31, noon – 1:30
Registration: Open
Cost: Free, donation requested
Frequency: One-time event (part of the Awareness in Action series)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Format: Online
Recording Available: Yes
Description: Join us in the continued commitment to social and environmental engagement and justice in this very complex time, to exploring the roots of structural violence in our social systems, and to engaging in the world in a courageous way based on contemplative practice and views that actualize non-separateness, interbeing, equity, compassion, justice, integrity, courage, dignity, and unshakable awareness.
This monthly series is stewarded by Roshi Joan Halifax, Sensei Kodo Roen, and Sensei Wendy Dainin Lau.
The faculty for this series includes: Jon Kabat-Zinn, Christiana Figueres, Ruth King, Valerie Brown, Bhikkhu Bodhi, Father Greg Boyle, Terry Tempest Williams, Konda Mason, Rebecca Solnit, Father John Dear, Guo Gu, Tara Brach, Frank Ostaseski, Sharon Salzberg, Roshi Joan, and Senseis Kodo Roen and Dainin Lau.
The focus is on recognizing and ending violence in relation to addressing the roots of war/genocide, racism, climate suffering, economics of exploitation and extraction, othering, and our own delusion that we are separate from any being or thing.
Each Zoom session will include a special introduction, teaching, community reflections, and the dedication of merit and Bodhisattva Vows. These sessions are offered freely, but donations are appreciated.
Comments: We have followed Rebecca Solnit‘s work for years and always enjoy hearing her speak. The Upaya Zen Center is an internationally known center of training, education, and lay-person community with a variety of program offerings. Their instructors are experts in their fields yet provide accessible materials and presentations. Our experiences with Upaya programs have always been excellent.
Ongoing
Contemplative Chant
Dates and Times: Wednesdays at 4 p.m.
Registration: Open
Cost: Free
Frequency: Ongoing
Duration: 30 minutes
Format: Online
Recording Available: No
Description: 30 minutes of contemplative chant from Wisdom Waypoints, with chants led by Susan Latimer and Elizabeth Combs. Chanting is a wonderful practice for bringing both the Moving Center (body, breath, tone) and the Emotional Center (open heart) online. It is a spiritual practice that opens our hearts, nourishes our nervous systems, prepares us for prayer and meditation as a bridge into stillness, and connects us to our innate joy, courage, steadfastness, peace, beauty, truth and goodness. In times of great uncertainty and change, we find chant to be one of the things that most grounds us. These sessions draw chants from Wisdom Schools, various spiritual and religious traditions, sacred texts, old hymns and poetry. Because of the limitations of synching sound on Zoom, all participants are muted except for the one leading. This allows everyone to chant along in their own space. (Great if you are shy about sharing your voice! Fun if you like to try harmonies!)
Comments: Some of us join this contemplative chant weekly and enjoy it very much. We find it a wonderful contemplative practice. Wisdom Waypoints is the wisdom community started by Cynthia Bourgeault, one of our favorite wisdom teachers. Note that this is a small and warm group of regular participants. Therefore, it can be more difficult to participate anonymously.
The Abbey Tuesday Morning Meditation
Dates and Times: Tuesdays at 8 a.m. (Meditation at 8 a.m., optional discussion at 8:30 a.m.)
Registration: Open
Cost: Free
Frequency: Weekly
Duration: Ongoing
Format: Zoom
Recording Available: No
Description: A 20-minute sit, followed by a brief reading and discussion.
Comments: Of course we love this meditation group! It’s The Abbey, our own contemplative community.
The Abbey Spiritual Discussion Group
Dates and Times: Thursdays, 5 p.m.
Registration: Not required
Cost: Free
Frequency: Weekly
Duration: 1 hour
Format: Zoom
Recording Available: No
Description: This group reads books to deepen our spiritual lives and to build community among participants. Newcomers are welcome to join the group anytime. Register on The Abbey website and we will send you a Zoom link.
Comments: The group is starting a new book this month (October), Barbara Brown Taylor’s An Altar in the World. We enjoy this group and the lively discussion both in small-group breakout rooms and with the whole group.
Word of the Week
Dates and Times: Emails sent on Sundays, meets each Tuesday at 8 a.m. and Wednesday at 5 p.m.
Registration: Sign up for weekly emails here.
Cost: Free annual subscription (with recommended donation of $95/yr)
Frequency: Weekly, per above
Duration: One hour
Format: Zoom – link is sent weekly in the email on Sunday
Recording Available: No
Description: A beautiful email is sent on Sundays with the reading of Lectio Divina that will be done. There is a sit and then the Lectio Divina.
Comments: We like this because it’s a chance to revisit the reading for the week—and they always include beautiful artwork (it’s Lectio and Visio Divina!). We like the sense of community. It’s a pretty stable group and there’s a chance to share. We also like the balance of it—they are very mindful of the time, it’s just an hour. There’s a rhythm of it that we like. We read the emails each week and appreciate having the email in advance to sit with it a little before the group reading. There are also opportunities to interact online with the group during the week. We will note that it can be difficult to find the link for the Zoom in the weekly email; it is also spelled out here—the third bullet has link to the zoom with poorly brown highlighted “Click on this link,” but it also provides the zoom code and passcode in the email.
Wisdom Waypoints Daily Centering Prayer/Meditation
Dates and Times: Monday – Friday 9:30 a.m.; Monday/Wednesday/Sunday 6 p.m.; Saturday 10:30 a.m.
Registration: No registration required, join via website
Cost: Free
Frequency: Daily, per above
Duration: 30 minutes
Format: Zoom
Recording Available: No
Description: A collective wisdom pause for “Silence and Stillness.” Wisdom members lead each sit with a brief reading, chant, and meditation/stillness.
Comments: We like this because it is a way to maintain our personal practice alongside others with the degree of anonymity (or not) with which we are each comfortable. Wisdom Waypoints is a part of Cynthia Bourgeault’s network of teaching and practice resources.