Drop-In groups are a welcoming introduction to Spirit Rock teachings and a source of ongoing inspiration and community connection. All drop-in groups are online, with closed captioning available, and include meditation, a Dharma talk, and often discussion.
In addition to our two open meditation groups, Monday Night and Wednesday Morning, we have weekly groups for self-identified BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and women, and a monthly group for the recovery community. All drop-in groups are suitable for new to experienced practitioners, and are offered by donation (dāna), on a sliding scale, for you to pay what you can. No one is turned away for lack of funds from drop-in groups.
Jack Kornfield began this weekly practice gathering in 1986 to introduce the practices of awareness and compassion that are the heart of the Buddha’s teachings. The evening has a period of meditation in stillness and a Dharma talk, sometimes with Q&A. In addition to Jack, you’ll hear inspiring Spirit Rock teachers presenting the ancient teachings of the Dharma in a way that’s relevant, wise, and helpful in our complex world.
Our Wednesday Morning Meditation & Talk is led by Sylvia Boorstein, Donald Rothberg, Heidi Bourne, or other guest teachers. With more community emphasis than the large Monday night gathering, this group welcomes beginners and experienced practitioners to explore Dharma with an emphasis on everyday life, social engagement, and lovingkindness.
The Rainbow Saṅgha is a weekly gathering of self-identified practitioners within marginalized gender and sexuality groups such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, and gender non-conforming. Together, we’ll explore the Dharma in ways that welcome our lived experiences and build community that honors our diverse voices.
This drop-in group offers women a place to come together in community to share our wisdom and strengthen our sense of belonging in the world. The group is led by Grace Fisher or guest teachers, and includes time for silent meditation, teachings, and group discussion. Beginners and experienced meditators are welcome.
The Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Saṅgha is a weekly gathering of self-identified BIPOC practitioners that provides a safe place to meditate and explore the Dharma. As a beloved community, this saṅgha supports exploration of the Dharma in light of our experiences. Together, we will cultivate an environment that welcomes diverse voices and builds community.
Our Dharma & Recovery group explores the intersection of recovery with Buddhist teachings and practices. We welcome all people who identify with any of the full range of addictions, from substances to behaviors, as well as habitual thought and emotional patterns. This is not a 12 Step group, but we look to ways that members of the community can support each other on the path of recovery. Each gathering begins with a period of guided meditation, and new meditators are welcome. There is time for discussion about meditation practice and a recovery/Dharma theme each month.
