JANUARY 2024:
A NEW FLEXIBLE FORMAT

Building on our successful pilot programs in 2020 and 2021, our core program is relaunching in 2024 in a new format. You might call it “DIY” (do it yourself) — with support!

Group-based (un)learning

Instead of inviting individuals to sign up to the course, we are inviting groups to go through this learning journey together. Groups can choose a time, rhythm and schedule that works for them. This also means that people all over world can join, regardless of our time zones. Some groups will meet in person, others on-line. Some groups will meet once a week, others once a month. Some will meet for an hour, others for a day. You decide! A multitude of formats are possible. We will offer tips and suggestions as to what has proven to work well — or not so well. The point is that your group will be free to find its own pace. Our commitment is to release a module every month and to support you along the way.

What support will groups have?

• Lead Facilitator(s): We generally recommend that facilitation be shared on a rotational basis, and we give groups an outline for each session to make it easy. This said, each group will need to have one to two lead facilitators who have experience in this work, and are closely in touch with the core team.

• Materials: Each of the 12 modules includes carefully curated materials to engage with before and during each session, along with a set of prompts for reflection and journalling. Materials usually take 1.5 to 2 hours to go through, sometimes more, sometimes less, depending on the module and personal or group inclinations.

• Session format outline: Each module includes tools for those facilitating, including a session outline with timings, questions, exercises and other tips for a successful gathering.

• Private discussion forum (optional): All group members will have access to a private moderated discussion forum right here on this website (not Facebook!!) where you can ask questions, find support and connect with people in other groups. This will also allow us all to have a wider sense of community, a place where we can be a “group of groups.” Your group can also select to have its own section on the discussion forum, if people want that. And of course, all this is entirely supplemental and optional.

• Information session for anyone interested: You are warmly invited to a 90 min information session. Come ask questions and meet the team and people who have done the course! Sunday October 15th. This session has passed but if you are considering joining the course you can email us and the recording can be sent to you.

• Facilitator and potential facilitator meeting (recorded) Facilitators new, returning and potential are all invited to join if possible a 90 min kick-off/orientation Sunday December 3rd. This meeting has now passed. If you are a facilitator in need of the recording, please get in touch.

• Hybrid retreat (optional) September 6-13th 2024. This is a retreat for course participants only. It will be hybrid — people can come in person (location in the UK) or be on-line. More information will be published when available.

Ok, I want to do this! How does it work?

• Find or create a group: Find a group you are already part of that wishes to go through the program, or create a group for the occasion. You can still apply if you are not in a group, and we can try our best to connect you with a group forming and willing to take on more participants. (More about groups below).

• Meet the requirements: This is a program for white and white presenting mitras and Order Members in Triratna. If you are not a mitra or Order Members but a regular sangha member (“friend”), it still might be possible to join a group. Please inquire if you are keen. Groups must have 1-2 willing lead facilitators with experience, ideally known to us.

• Solidify your time commitment: Agree on a time/place/cadence with your group, and ensure there is a strong level of commitment. There are 12 modules in the course. You don’t have to complete the course, but we recommend trying to, and meeting at least once a month over and agreed timeframe. Examples of schedules might include:

  • meeting once a month for 3-4 hours with time for meditation

  • meeting twice a month for 2 hours (or 90 min)

  • meeting once a week for 1 hour

  • etc….

• Complete the application process. Each person needs to do this individually. After that, applications are rolling. You group may be able to start later, please inquire. Once you apply, you can expect to be in communication with our team.

• After your application is reviewed, you will receive an invitation to finalize your registration on the site. You will be invited to join a private “member” section of this website where you will find all the materials you might need.

• Note two key dates: the information session on Oct 15th and the facilitator meeting on Dec 3rd (see above). We plan to record both for those who cannot attend.

• January 2024 - Ready to Go! Modules will be released once a month, generally on the first of the month. We recommend starting that month, at your set time. You will be notified by email that materials have become available. Depending on need, we may have an an optional kick-off session for all participants.

• What about dana? This program is offered freely on the basis of generosity. We are funded through donations of time and money, as well by foundation grants. Our tiny team works hundreds of hours to make all this happen and does need material support. We also have costs related to the web-based platforms we use. You can offer dana (generosity) here.