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Author: Bhante Sathi

Published on

July 20th to 23rd, 2023 (Thursday 5:00 PM to Sunday 3:00 PM)

Registration Due Date: Friday, April 21, 2022

Click here to register

What if you could maintain joyfulness through both the easy and hard times?

During this retreat, we will learn about the seeds of joyfulness and what embracing it can mean for us in our daily lives.

Joyfulness is a state of mind that heals us and leads to inner peace. With practice, we can train ourselves using confidence and mindfulness techniques to attain a joyful state of mind.

This retreat will include unique meditation practices and teachings to help us achieve this state of consciousness. Treat yourself by strengthening the joy in your life, and join us for this transformative retreat!

Teacher: Bhante Sathi

Retreat Format: In-person only

Fee: $420 include food and Lodging, ($370 for monthly contributors)

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses of hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Winter Retreat

Retreat Itinerary

Thursday Night Schedule

  • 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM: Check-in (for those attending in person)
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening night - Welcome & Introduction
  • 08:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Group discussion 

Friday & Saturday Schedule

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:00 PM: Group sitting
  • 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Snack or dinner
  • 07:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Teaching & talk

Sunday Closing Day

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Closing practice

Note: deepening ourself with practice while investigation ourself. (Sammaditti Sutta, Bojjanga Sutta).

Click here to register

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Metta Meditation Center

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Published on

We are so happy to announce that Triple Gem of the North is offering a Meditation/Mindfulness teaching certification. This certification attests to an acceptable level of knowledge and teaching skills required for mindful meditation teaching.

To sign up for the program, use this link

The history of mindfulness goes back hundreds of years, originating from Buddhist concepts. It did not become popular in the west until the late 1970s. Over the years, mindfulness has evolved to become an integrated part of schools, workplaces, and everyday life. In this training program, we will be diving into the original Buddhist teachings on mindfulness and how to become a successful teacher in this field.

The training will prepare you as a meditation and mindfulness teacher by educating our students on the following topics:

  • Understanding, practicing, and mastering mindfulness.
  • Historical evolution of mindfulness.
  • Several different Eastern mindfulness pathways.
  • How to become a teacher based on the Buddhist Suttas (scriptures).
  • Understand the Bodhisatwa mind and become a Bodhisatwa (a person on the path to Buddhahood).
  • Understanding the Buddhist way of life by studying key Suttas.
  • The Triple Gem, The Buddha, The Dhamma, The Sangha.
  • Being a community member and creating a mindful community.
  • Becoming a life-long teacher using Insight Meditation and Mind Culture.

The certification program content

  • Completion of assignments, including 40 hours of Zoom training between in-person workshops.
  • Around 120 hours between 6 weekends of in-person workshops.
  • Understanding of key principles of historical meditation methods (Buddhist, hindu).

To earn certificate 

  • Attending at least 5 workshops out of 6. All 6 workshops are recommended.
  • Participants will complete one or more hands-on training sessions while a monk observes. For example, a guided meditation class.

Payment Options
Option 1 - Total Cost: $2700 ( $2500 if paid in full by Feb 15th 2023)
Option 2 - Installment Payment

  • Program Entry Fee (Due by Feb 15,2023): $1000
  • 6 Payments of $290

Fees will cover lodging and food (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) expenses, and guest teacher travel expenses. The meals will be Vegan. Please let us know if you have any additional food restrictions, and we will do our best to accommodate you. You may also provide your own meals if needed.

Training Schedule
All training will be held at the Metta Meditation Retreat Center in Janesville, MN. Each retreat will begin at 6:00 pm Friday and will end at 3:00 pm on Sunday. Participants may stay at the Center Sunday night, checking out before 10:00 am Monday morning.

April 14-16 - Overview of the program and a historical context
We will be focusing on “Understanding, practicing and mastering Mindfulness Meditation”
Historical evolution of Mindfulness. We will be studying all kinds of eastern mindful pathways.

May 19-21 - Being a good student is the teacher
How to be a student and how to be a teacher. We will be studying various Buddhist teaching methods by studying several suttas.

July 7-9 - On becoming a Bodhisatva
Understanding Bodhisatva mind and becoming a Bodhisatva (One who is working toward becoming enlightened.) We will be studying Buddhist Sutras to understand the Buddhist way of life.

Sep 1-3- The Triple Gem
Understanding and utilizing the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha.

Oct 27-29 - Creating a Mindful Community
Understanding the different ways a Mindful Community can be developed, and what are the guiding principles for it.

December 1-3 - Insight Meditation and Mind Culture
Being a life-long teacher using mindfulness. Utilizing Bhavana (Insight Meditation) and culturing the mind.

Example Schedule

Friday

5:30 PM - Supper

6:00 PM - Teachings

7:00 PM - Guided Meditation and Guided Discussion

9:30 PM - End of Day

Saturday

6:00 AM - Meditation

7:00 AM - Breakfast

8:00 AM - Teachings

9:00 AM - Meditation

10:00AM - Mindful Movements 

11:00 AM - Teachings

12:00 PM - Lunch

1:00 PM - Independent Practice

2:00 PM - Q&A

4:00 PM - Teachings

5:00 PM - Meditation

6:00 PM - Supper

7:00 PM - Guided Meditation and Guided Discussion 

9:30 PM - End of Day

Sunday

6:00 AM - Meditation

7:00 AM - Breakfast

8:00 AM - Teachings

9:00 AM - Meditation

10:00 AM - Mindful Movements 

11:00 AM - Teachings

12:00 PM - Lunch

1:00 PM - Independent Practice

2:00 PM - Q&A

3:00 PM - End of Weekend Workshop 

Requirements
Minimum 1-year weekly meditation or more than 3 residential retreats under a qualified teacher.

You will have to submit a recommendation letter from your teacher if you are not part of Triple Gem community. If you are unable to provide a letter, please email us about your situation.

Submit your application before January 31st, 2023

To sign up for the program, use this link

Published on

January 19th to 22nd, 2023 (Thursday 5:00 PM to Sunday 3:00 PM)

Click here to register

What comes to mind when you think of the word “love”? Perhaps a close friend or family member. Maybe it’s associated with your favorite childhood house or your passions and hobbies. Love for those things may come easily for us, but what about loving ourselves?

When was the last time you have felt self-love? Have you ever felt it? If you could maintain self-love, what do you think you could accomplish with it? These are the topics we will be focusing on in this retreat.

During this retreat, we will be learning to enhance self-love so that we may become the best version of ourselves. We will also learn the importance of self-love, along with utilizing mental tools and techniques that will help enhance our appreciation for ourselves. We look forward to seeing you during this retreat— you have earned it!

Retreat Format: In-person only

Fee: $420 include food and Lodging, ($370 for monthly contributors)

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses of hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button
Winter Retreat

Retreat Itinerary

Thursday Night Schedule

  • 05:00 PM Check-in
    05:20 PM – 06:00 PM: Snack or dinner
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening night - Welcome & Introduction
  • 08:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Group discussion 

Friday & Saturday Schedule

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:00 PM: Group sitting
  • 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Snack or dinner
  • 07:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Teaching & talk

Sunday Closing Day

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Closing practice

Click here to register

Note: deepening ourself with practice while investigation ourself. (Sammaditti Sutta, Bojjanga Sutta).

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Published on

August 10th to 13th, 2023 (Thursday 5:00 PM to Sunday 3:00 PM)

Click here to register

"What It Does It Mean To Be a Man" All of us are conditioned from early childhood by our parents, teachers, friends, culture, religion to form a concept of what it means to be a man - often trained to be tough, unemotional, competitive warriors and achievers with a skewed view of sexuality. This affects our relationship with ourselves and others, and the extent to which we experience joy in life.

Located on Lake Elysian in 37-acres of woodlands, the Metta Meditation Center is the perfect place to take retreat.

Men's retreats offer a unique opportunity to explore issues specific to men. It is much more challenging for men to build intimate relationships; yet, we can experience the incredible gift of such relationships. What does it mean to be a man? What does it mean to have intimate relationships with men? How do we become aware of our feelings and take the risk of sharing them with other men? How does this help us grow in mindfulness? Who is your role model of a man, why? How do relationships with men differ from relationships with women? Explore loneliness and its relationship to intimacy? How do close relationships with men strengthen my maleness?

Participants will enjoy 3-days of mindfulness meditation, teachings, discussion, and other mindfulness classes, as well as personal practice time. See the example schedule below and register today to reserve your spot.

Teachers: Bhante Sathi and Ralph Pamperin

Retreat Format: In-person

Fee: In-person ($420) Fee in only to cover expenses.

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses for hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Donate with PayPal button
View of center from Lake Elysian
Metta Meditation Center on the shores of Lake Elysian

Retreat Itinerary

Thursday Night Schedule

  • 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM: Check-in (for those attending in person)
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening night - Welcome & Introduction
  • 08:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Group discussion 

Friday & Saturday Schedule

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:00 PM: Group sitting
  • 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Snack or dinner
  • 07:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Teaching & talk

Sunday Closing Day

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Closing practice

Click here to register

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Metta Meditation Center at 3864 420th Ave, Janesville, MN. Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a private room and meals at the center. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide vegan meals. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

Click here to register

Published on

May 25th to 28th, 2023 (Thursday 5:00 PM to Sunday 3:00 PM)

Registration Due Date: Tuesday, January 10th, 2023

Click here to register

The Seven Factors of Awakening are qualities cultivated on the path to liberating of the mind. These seven factors refer to both psychological qualities we can develop as well as practices to be undertaken. When fully developed, they are know as the seven jewels of Buddhist practice.

Guidance and practice in this retreat will be focused on these factors.    

Seven Factors of Awakening (Saptha Bojjangha)

  • Mindfulness (Sati). To maintain awareness of reality, in particular the teachings
  • Investigation of the nature of reality (Damma Vichaya).
  • Energy (Virya) also determination, effort
  • Joy or rapture (Piti)
  • Relaxation or tranquility (Passaddi) of both body and mind
  • Concentration, (Samashi) a calm, one-pointed state of mind, or clear awareness
  • Equanimity (Upekha). To accept reality as-it-is (yathā-bhuta) without craving or aversion.

Teacher: Bhante Sathi

Retreat Format: In-person only

Fee: $420 include food and Lodging, ($370 for monthly contributors)

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses of hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Winter Retreat

Retreat Itinerary

Thursday Night Schedule

  • 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM: Check-in (for those attending in person)
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening night - Welcome & Introduction
  • 08:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Group discussion 

Friday & Saturday Schedule

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:00 PM: Group sitting
  • 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Snack or dinner
  • 07:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Teaching & talk

Sunday Closing Day

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Closing practice

Click here to register

Note: deepening ourself with practice while investigation ourself. (Sammaditti Sutta, Bojjanga Sutta).

Click here to register

Donate with PayPal button

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Donate with PayPal button
Metta Meditation Center

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Published on

March 30th - April 2nd, 2023

Click here to register

The jhanas are eight progressive altered states of consciousness which can be reached through meditation practice. There are four initial states that meditators can experience through guided insight practice. Each of these states of awareness have been found to yield a deeper, more subtle awareness than the previous one. The jhanas themselves are not awakening— they are a skillful means for stilling the mind. They are attainable by anyone who devotes the time and sincerity of practice necessary to realize them.
Jhana practice is helpful for gaining the deep insights necessary for ending personal suffering. The jhanas are an advanced practice in Buddhist meditation. In this retreat, we will be studying those Eight Jhanas and practicing to achieve each state of awareness. 

Teacher: Bhante Sathi

Retreat Format: In-person only

Fee: $420 includes food and lodging ($370 for monthly sponsors of Triple Gem of the North)

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses of hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Winter Retreat

Retreat Itinerary

Thursday 30th Afternoon Schedule

  • 05:00 PM – 05:30 PM: Check-in
  • 05:30 PM – 06:00 PM: Light Supper
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening night - Introduction to Mindfulness
  • 07:00 PM – 08:00 PM: Teaching
  • 08:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Guided discussion

Daily Schedule starting Friday 31st & Saturday 1st

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:00 PM: Jhana Meditation
  • 04:00 PM – 05:00 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Light Supper
  • 07:00 PM – 08:30 PM: Guided discussion
  • 08:30 PM – 09:00 PM: Jhana Meditation

Sunday the 2nd Schedule

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Jhana Meditation
  • 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Retreat Closure

Click here to register

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!
Donate with PayPal button
Metta Meditation Center

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Published on

May 25th to 28th, 2023 (Thursday 5:00 PM to Sunday 3:00 PM)

Registration Due Date: Friday, April 21st, 2022

Click here to register

The Seven Factors of Awakening are qualities cultivated on the path to liberating of the mind. These seven factors refer to both psychological qualities we can develop as well as practices to be undertaken. When fully developed, they are know as the seven jewels of Buddhist practice.

Developing The Seven Factors of Awakening will help us to have peace of mind. Guidance and practice in this retreat will be focused on these factors.    

Seven Factors of Awakening (Saptha Bojjangha)

  • Mindfulness (Sati), to maintain awareness of reality, in particular the teachings.
  • Investigation of the nature of reality (Damma Vichaya).
  • Energy (Virya), determination, effort.
  • Joy or rapture (Piti).
  • Relaxation or tranquility (Passaddi) of both body and mind.
  • Concentration, (Samashi) a calm, one-pointed state of mind, or clear awareness
  • Equanimity (Upekha). To accept reality as-it-is (yathā-bhuta) without craving or aversion.

Teacher: Bhante Sathi

Retreat Format: In-person only

Fee: $420 include food and Lodging, ($370 for monthly contributors)

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses of hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button
Winter Retreat

Retreat Itinerary

Thursday Night Schedule

  • 05:00 PM – 06:00 PM: Check-in (for those attending in person)
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening night - Welcome & Introduction
  • 08:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Group discussion 

Friday & Saturday Schedule

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:00 PM: Group sitting
  • 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Snack or dinner
  • 07:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Teaching & talk

Sunday Closing Day

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 01:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 01:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Closing practice

Click here to register

Note: Day one and two, Samatha (Mindfulness) Meditation; From day three Vipassana meditations methods (Satipattana Sutta, elements, four foundations of mindfulness, Sapta Bojjanga).

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button
Metta Meditation Center

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Published on

February 9th - 12th

Registration Due Date: January 10th

We are social beings, thus the relationships we form with others impact our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Wholesome and nourishing relationships, whether romantic, friendships, or familial, can help make life healthier. A positive relationship can be shared between any two people or a group of people who support, encourage, and help each other practically as well as emotionally. While we don't have to be romantically involved to enjoy the benefits of a healthy relationship, there is research on the positive effects a healthy romantic relationship can have on your health.

In this retreat, we will primarily focus on nourishing healthy romantic relationships and how we can promote relational quality. Bhante Sathi will teach from Buddhas orginal teachings of "Singalowada sutta"; "Viyaggapadda Sutta"; "Chatu sanwasa Sutta."

Facilitators: Bhante Sathi and Dr. Dharshini Goonetilleke, Ed.D, LPCC

Retreat Format: In-person only

Fee: $420 for one person, $800 for a couples. A 15% discount is applied for sponsors of Triple Gem of the North.

(Sponsors are those who donate $100 or more monthly, or $1000 or more annually to Triple Gem of the North)

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses of hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Retreat Itinerary

Thursday Night

  • 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM: Arriving and checking in
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening Night Welcome & Introduction
  • 08:00 PM – 09:00 PM: Group Discussion (Bhante Sathi)

Friday & Saturday

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Morning teachings (Bhante)
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:30 PM: Activity (hear beyonds words)
  • 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Snack or dinner
  • 07:00 PM – 08:30 PM: Guided discussion (Dharshini)
  • 08:30 PM – 09:00 PM: Group Meditation

Sunday Closing Day

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Sitting meditation
  • 07:15 AM – 08:30 AM: Meal and Independent Practice 
    10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 08:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Teaching and Meditation 
  • 01:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Closing practice 

Note: Day one and two, Samatha (Mindfulness) Meditation; From day three Vipassana meditations methods (Satipattana Sutta, elements, four foundations of mindfulness, Sapta Bojjanga).

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button
Metta Meditation Center

Logistics

If attending the retreat in person:

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

If attending the retreat online, here are a few tips:

  • Try to find a quiet room away from people and pets.
  • Try to eat home-cooked food. This will be elaborated more later on.
  • Try to wear comfortable clothes
  • Try to arrive at the call about 5-10 minutes before meditation and discussion. If your computer decides it wants to update or gives you trouble just email the retreat coordinator.
  • Try to get a good night’s rest.
  • Be mindful and relax!

Click here to register

Make your payment here

Donate with PayPal button

Published on

Published on

December 15th to 22rd, 2023 (Friday 5:00 PM to Friday 12:00 PM)

Click here to register

Teacher: Bhante Sathi

Bhante Sathi is Guided meditation teacher who has over 3 decades of practice.
He is the founder of Triple Gem of the North in Minnesota, along with other Buddhist meditation communities.

Meditation helps us in a variety of ways and on different levels, from relaxation to gaining freedom from deep mental pain.

It allows us to:

  • Defuse stress and experience greater happiness.
  • Improve our relationship with own mind and body.
  • Identify and understand own feelings.
  • Find true happiness
  • Find inner resources that can help us to be well and happy.
  • Cultivate Joyfulness with loving frendliness and develop wisdom.
  • Improve overall physical and mental health.

Vipassana meditation is a practice that involves “seeing things as they are”. During this 7-day retreat, participants will explore Vipassana in addition to other Buddhist techniques.

“As a beginner to Buddhism and meditation, I recently participated in a 7-day Vipassana retreat at the Metta Meditation Center in December 2022... Vipassana involves observing the body and mind moment by moment to experience the three truths of impermanent (anicca), unsatisfactory (dukkha), and selfless (anatta). The focus of this retreat was mainly on impermanence… Sometime on Day 3, I could observe myself as separate from my thoughts and intellectually understand impermanence.” -Retreat Participant

Retreat Format: In-person only

Suggested Fee: $750

Dāna (Pali, Generosity): Please note that the retreat fee covers the Center’s expenses of hosting participants. It is customary to make additional donations for the teacher and meals.

Click here to register

Winter Retreat

Retreat Itinerary

Friday 15th Afternoon Schedule

  • 05:00 PM – 05:30 PM: Check-in
  • 05:30 PM – 06:00 PM: Light Supper
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Opening night - Introduction to Retreat
  • 07:00 PM – 08:00 PM: Teaching
  • 07:00 PM – 08:00 PM: Guided discussion

Daily Schedule Starting from Saturday 16th

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
    8:15 AM – 9:00 AM:Guided meditation
  • 09:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Teachings
  • 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Walking and sitting practice
  • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mindful moments
  • 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM: Lunch and independent practice 
  • 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM: Q&A
  • 03:15 PM – 04:30 PM: Group sitting
  • 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM: Mindful motion with Yoga or Qigong
  • 06:00 PM – 07:00 PM: Light Supper
  • 07:00 PM – 08:30 PM: Guided discussion
  • 08:30 PM – 09:00 PM: Practice

Friday 22rd Schedule

  • 06:00 AM – 07:15 AM: Mindful movements
  • 07:15 AM – 08:15 AM: Meal and independent practice
  • 08:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Teaching
  • 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Karma Yoga
  • 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Closing practice

Note: Day one and two will be Samatha (Mindfulness) Meditation. From day three on: Vipassana meditations methods (Satipattana Sutta, elements, four foundations of mindfulness, Sapta Bojjanga).

Click here to register

Logistics

  • Location: Google Maps has been known to take our guests to the main house rather than the center. When you arrive, you’ll pull into a gravel road on the highway, simply keep driving until you see a large yellow building on your left-hand side next to a large white cross. That is where the Center is.
  • Accommodations: The registration fee is inclusive of a room and meals. Rooms are dorm-style with shared bathrooms.
  • Clothing: Try to bring comfortable clothing as you will be spending a lot of time conducting various types of meditation and mindfulness practices.
  • Toiletries: Try to avoid bringing heavily scented items and some individuals are sensitive to such products.
  • Food: We provide food for you. If you need to bring your own food for whatever reason, we encourage you to put your name on the food and place it in the fridge located on the main floor. We can show you where that is when you check-in.
  • Towels and sheets: Please keep in mind that we do not provide linens for your stay as we only have a few extra. We recommend bringing a set of twin sheets and some towels. If you forget these items, we can help you out by letting you borrow some of our extras.

Click here to register

Metta Meditation Center