Date 2 Apr 2019 - 7 Apr 2019

Location Cowichan Lake Education Centre

Details

This Wisdom School will trace the roots of the Christian mystical and visionary tradition as they bear on the rich lineage of teaching and practice being transmitted through Cynthia and her students. As with all Wisdom Schools, there will be a balance of teaching, meditative sitting, liturgy, and embodied practice. A meditation practice is the only pre-requisite.

Members are able to apply as of 10:00 am PST on December 11 – become a member today! Applications will open to the general public on January 15 at 10:00 am PST. 

---

RETREAT DETAILS

Cost: $600-$1200 CAD per person depending on accommodation type (includes teaching fees, accommodations, and meals). A limited number of partial scholarships will be made available – please apply alongside your application if needed!

Deposit: A $100 CAD non-refundable deposit will be requested from you once your application has been accepted, and you have received your offer to attend. 

Fees include buffet style vegetarian meals (with two fish dishes), including vegan and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. All taxes included in fees. Opportunities to car-pool will be made available. Thanks to the generosity of our membership and supporting organisations, we will also have a limited number of scholarships available. 

More information: Nestled amidst 44 acres of Douglas fir forest with 1200 feet of secluded Cowichan Lake shoreline the centre is a full service conference and outdoor learning facility. The centre offers an inspirational setting. Visitors to the region will enjoy the spirit of adventure as they explore the West Coast temperate rain forests, mountains, wetlands, and marine environments of the Cowichan Valley. The centre is strategically located at the gateway to the majestic landscape of Carmanah-Walbran and the Juan de Fuca marine trail, as well as the spectacular rugged terrain of the world-renowned West Coast Trail. Wireless Internet is available in the main hall, and cell phone reception is available though we ask you to limit your use of devices.

In the spirit of adventure and knowledge, the centre encourages and creates a flexible and relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy recreational activities from hiking and swimming to birdwatching, photography, the arts and music. We are confident that participants will reap many rewards at this location, especially if they come with the intention of bringing an open attitude, a sense of humour, and goodwill. Whatever challenges present themselves, Cynthia Bourgeault often reminds us these are precisely the conditions for experiencing the full benefit of a retreat.

Performing daily Benedictine work will also be an integral part of the Wisdom School. This will include some type of physical task such as light work on the grounds or housekeeping, such as bathroom clean-up, sweeping, etc. This will allow us to move more into our bodies as we balance the work of our time together. 

Although silence and mediation are a component of Wisdom Schools, they are not full silent retreats. The schedule will include teaching sessions, time for group sharing, and question and answer sessions, as well as free unstructured time. Typically, silence will be practiced from the final sit in the evening through to the next morning session after breakfast. 

Given all the above, we ask you to carefully consider if this event is suitable to you prior to applying.

Members are able to apply as of 10:00 am PST on December 11 – become a member today! Applications will open to the general public on January 15 at 10:00 am PST.

For enquiries or questions please phone 250-381-9650 or email admin@contemplative.org.