Dear Friends,
As the November winds whisper through the trees and winter begins to peek around the corner, I find myself filled with joy and gratitude reflecting on our recent gathering by the sea. Twenty-four of us have just returned from our first Hertford sangha retreat since before the pandemic.
A Return to Retreat
There’s something truly magical about witnessing someone experience their first retreat. For many in our group, this was precisely that moment – their first taste of the profound beauty and warmth that comes from dedicated spiritual practice together. Our host, the Othona retreat centre on the East Essex Coast, provided the perfect setting for this adventure. It was particularly touching to see how this Christian community, open to people of all faiths and none (just like our Tuesday class), has also discovered the transformative power of retreat.
Sacred Spaces and Discoveries
The shrine room held a special secret – the sea just beyond its walls, its presence initially hidden like so many spiritual treasures that reveal themselves in their own time.
Our days were woven with the familiar threads of retreat life – meditations, silence embraced us in its gentle hold, and puja invited us into deeper connection. Between these structured moments, we found joy in discussion groups, shared countless cups of tea, and even discovered our creative spirits during an arts and crafts afternoon. Some of us sketched our inspirations, while others composed a song that they generously shared with us at the retreat’s end.
But perhaps most precious was the warmth of sangha itself – that indefinable yet palpable sense of community that opens our hearts and reminds us we’re not walking this path alone.
Looking Ahead: Our Winter Journey Together
As we move towards the year’s end, we have some wonderful gatherings planned. Newcomers are always made very welcome. Just turn up at the Millbridge rooms between 7pm and 7.15pm:
- 12 November: Samudraghosha leads our evening
- 19 November: Khemananda joins us
- 26 November: Shubhadasa guides our practice
- 03 December: To be confirmed
- 10 December: To be confirmed
- 17 December: Sangha Soiree
- 24 December: No class (Winter break)
- 31 December: No class (Winter break)
- 07 January: Classes resume
Lunchtime Meditation
Remember our weekly oasis of calm: Wednesday lunchtime classes continue from 1pm to 2pm – a perfect mid-week pause to refresh your practice and connect with sangha.
Sangha Day at Cambridge Buddhist Centre – 17th November
Not to be missed. Many of us are going up from Hertford for the day. The day will be especially meaningful as we celebrate four of our sangha members – Adrian, Charlotte, Liz and Lucy – becoming Mitras (the Sanskrit word for ‘friend’, marking a formal commitment to practicing Buddhism within our community). There are also family activities in the morning to which you can bring young children. Details at Cambridge Buddhist Centre
December Highlight: Our Sangha Soiree!
Our beloved Sangha Soiree is approaching! This is your invitation to share your gifts with our community – whether through music, song, poetry, memoirs, photographs, dance, or any other creative expression. Remember, this isn’t about perfection – it’s about sharing from the heart with our wonderfully appreciative sangha family. Past performances have included everything from instrumental pieces to belly dancing, from opera appreciation to Disney singalongs!
If you’ve never been to one of our events before, the Soiree is the perfect opportunity to experience the warmth and creativity of our community in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Please let me know if you’d like to contribute a performance. And do bring friends and family to join in this celebration. I’m certain someone will bring cake!
In Conclusion
As the days grow shorter and the world prepares for winter’s quiet, let’s hold close the warmth we’ve generated together. Whether you joined us at the retreat or have yet to experience one, know that our sangha’s doors are always open, ready to welcome you home.
Until we meet again, may your practice be steady, your heart be warm, and your spirit be lifted by the knowledge that you’re part of this beautiful community.
With metta,
Keith