Introductory Evening

You are most welcome to come and find out about our tradition. We have found the best way is to come to an introductory evening where the resident monk and /or an experienced practitioner will meet you with the rest of the new group, explain what we do here and the basis of our practice and show you the basics of how this is done. There is plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

These evenings usually run on the first Tuesday of each month from 7.30pm to 9pm. Please email or call to say you would like to come.

At an introductory evening we give practical instruction in how to meditate and will help you to find a suitable posture, which may be sitting in a chair, on a kneeling bench or on a round cushion (zafu). We recommend wearing loose, respectful clothing as tight trousers or anything constricting makes it difficult to sit comfortably.

After the instruction we have a short period of sitting meditation followed by walking meditation which helps to bring the focus of the sitting meditation into activity. The evening begins and ends with a chance to ask questions about the meditation practice and Buddhist teaching.

When the resident Prior is away an experienced member of our congregation will be available for this event. After you have attended an introductory evening you are then very welcome to come to any of our weekly groups or other the scheduled events on the calendar.

Offering is a central aspect of our practice and the priory practices this in not setting charges for anything here; use of the meditation hall, retreats, festivals, counselling or any other services. This enables everyone to come and join in the life of the priory regardless of income.

The other side of the offering is that the priory and resident monk are supported entirely by the congregation, who offer donations when they come of money in the alms bowl, or some generously make regular donations by standing order.This is deeply appreciated and forms the priory's only income.Offerings of vegetarian (no fish) food have traditionally been welcomed too.

We look forward to meeting you and thank you for your interest in what we do.