IMCC Spring Equinox Retreat
with Pat Coffey and Dori Langevin
March 21-24, 2019
Serenity Ridge Retreat Center
Nelson County, Virginia
Spring Equinox is a time of natural renewal. Almost all cultures observe the Solstice as a time of replenishment. What does it mean to look with fresh eyes at ourselves and the world, illuminated by the light of awareness and love?
The world is on fire. As contemplatives, can we look into the heart of darkness with the dharma perspective rather than the habitual veils of our reactivity, views, and opinions?
This retreat will offer gentle guidance in vibrant practices of the heart/mind to support the freshening of your perspective and the deepening of your inner capacity for wisdom, compassion, and peace. This long weekend of practice is suitable for both experienced and new meditators as complete instructions will be offered.
So that participants may fully experience the benefits of the teachings and our practice, the retreatants will maintain noble silence, except for question/answer periods and meetings with the teachers. We will alternate sitting practice with walking meditation, and daily mindful movement classes will be offered.
Pat Coffey Dori Langevin
Registration Fees and Accommodations
Registration fees vary based on when you register and what type of accommodation you select.
Prices include all meals, snacks, tea and coffee. Pricing does not include voluntary dana contributions for the teachers.
During the early registration period (through
February 15, 2019), fees are discounted, but must be
paid in full at the time of registration. Room assignments are made on a first come, first served basis, and assignments are dependent upon availability. Early registration assures best room assignment.
For those camping, Serenity Ridge has a number of gravel tent pads in the woods north of the meditation hall: in the past, tents pitched have remained dry even after successive days of rain. Indoor showers and restrooms are located about fifty yards from the camping area.
Refund Policy
If your plans change and you are unable to attend the retreat, please notify us as soon as possible as there may be people on a waiting list. Requests for refunds will be considered before February 18, 2019. A $50 fee will be charged for all cancellations; these fees are donated to our scholarship fund. We are
unable to offer refunds after February 19, due to fees that we must pay in advance to the retreat center. There will be no refund if you decide to leave the retreat early.
Scholarships and Contributions
If you are in need of financial support from IMCC, please complete the
scholarship application form before registering. Shared rooms are available to those requiring financial assistance.
As you know, expenses for retreats are increasing, while personal incomes often are not. This means that some people who want to come to an IMCC retreat cannot afford the cost. It is our intention, when possible, not to turn anyone away for financial reasons.
If you would like to make a donation to the IMCC Fred Meyer Scholarship Fund in order to assist those in need, you will have the opportunity to do so when you register. Contributions are tax deductible; we will provide you with a statement of your contribution upon request.
Residential Retreat Resources
A collection of information on residential retreats, including a link and map for the Serenity Ridge Retreat Center, travel directions, short descriptions on what to expect on retreat, what to bring and other details and advice can be found at
IMCC's residential retreat resources page.
Dana
Retreat fees cover the cost of room, board, and facility fees. No part of the fee covers payment to the teachers. Teachers are dependent on dana, which are contributions from those attending the retreat. You will have an opportunity to make a dana payment to the teachers at the end of the retreat.
Please note:
If you are in the midst of a life trauma, emotional upheaval or instability that might require individual support beyond scheduled meetings with teachers, the retreat format may not be a good match at this time. Should you have any questions about this, please contact the retreat manager.
Retreat Managers
Laura DeVault and Liz Reynolds are experienced retreat managers who can answer any questions you have about going on retreat. You may email them at:
RetreatManagers@imeditation.org
Retreat Location Serenity Ridge Retreat Center
554 Drumheller Ln
Shipman, VA 22971
Map