Becoming Buddhist Retreat

What does it mean to call yourself a Buddhist? Formally, one is called a Buddhist practitioner after taking the refuge vow. Eric Spiegel, a master teacher in the Shambhala lineage, has offered to lead the I.D. Project through a retreat where we contemplate the meaning of identifying as a Buddhist practitioner. At the end of Saturday's program, he will offer the refuge vow ceremony for anyone who wants to take it. The vow will be offered in a nonsectarian manner in line with the I.D. Project's mission.

Note: The program fee includes $15 for a required practice text composed by Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche about the practice of taking refuge. Students will also be asked to contribute an optional Dana (donation) offering to the teacher's livelihood.

Eric Spiegel is recognized as a Master Teacher (sanskrit, Acharya) in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage, of which he has been a student since 1971. He is also one of three recognized Lineage Mentors to students at the Interdependence Project.

Eric's unique personal journey has included a 22-year career on Wall Street, becoming treasurer of a private investment firm. When the firm was acquired in 2000, Eric took advantage of his freedom and good fortune to explore new opportunities for practice and teaching. This journey has taken him to Shambhala Centers across the US; he has taught at Seminary (month-long intensive study and practice retreats) programs at Shambhala Mountain Center in Colorado, Karmê Chöling in Vermont and at Dechen Chöling in France.

Eric has been involved in an ongoing contemplation of death and dying as part of his life and practice. He has worked extensively with people with HIV, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, helping them explore the nature of mind as their physical conditions evolve. This has often resulted in pastoral work helping family and friends of those who have died to connect with the raw and wakeful tenderness of impermanence.

Schedule and Fees:

Friday March 5th, 2010
7 - 9 pm Public talk
Saturday March 6th, 2010
10 - 6pm Retreat
4:30pm - Public Ceremony (You can invite your friends and family)
5:30pm - Reception

$60 or $40 for members
Friday Night talk only $15 suggested donation

It is our full intention to accommodate the financial needs of anyone who has a genuine commitment to practice and study. Reduced Payment Options and Work-Study are always available. Please contact patrick@theidproject.org to make alternative arrangements.

Location