The Williamsburg Buddhist Sangha (WBS) Provides
- Five Meditation or study groups every week.
- Special events, such as mini-retreats for meditation practice, guest teachers, etc.
- Periodic 6-8 week classes on aspects of Buddhism, Buddhist practice, and/or Mindfulness.
- Outreach to the local community, including giving talks.
- Social opportunities, such as a Sangha-wide potluck.
What to Expect at the WBS
All are welcome to our Meditation groups. No prior training or knowledge is needed. Even with the book group, there is no need to have read the book because we read it during group. There is nothing you need to bring. We typically sit in chairs (except for walking meditation), but you can bring a cushion and sit on the floor if you prefer. There is no cost for any of our groups or events, although we do accept donations.
Monday evenings
Rotating group leaders
At the Williamsburg Unitarian Universalist Church
We typically introduce ourselves, have a settling-in meditation for about 5 minutes, one of our leaders gives a talk/discussion for about 20 minutes and then we meditate for another 20 mins. We typically sit in chairs, but occasionally participants us a mat/cushion to sit on the floor. In person and on Zoom.
Wednesday evenings
Rotating group leaders
At the Wesley Foundation
We typically introduce ourselves, have a settling-in meditation for about 5 minutes, one of our leaders gives a talk/discussion for about 20 minutes and then we meditate for another 20 mins. Sit in the provided chairs or bring a cushion. In person.
Thursday mornings
Led by Ben Thacker-Gwaltney
Thursday morning group reads/studies a book or a topic. Currently we are studying the “37 Practices of a Bodhisattva” by Tokme Zangpo. We typically introduce ourselves, have a settling-in meditation for about 5 minutes, discuss the book for about 20 minutes and then we meditate for another 20 mins. Zoom only.
Friday mornings
Led by John Chowning and Doug Austin
A small group gathers on Zoom to meditate. A leader presents a topic or a reading and then we meditate for about 20 minutes.
Saturday morning walking meditation
Led by Darrell Key
The group meets at the walking path behind Clara Byrd Elementary School and does walking meditation for about a half an hour. Brief discussion.