In addition to the Tuesday evening meetings, we offer a wide range of events and activities that inform, educate and support our practice while fostering a strong sense of community. These include:
- Day-long, weekend, and week-long retreats. See event calendar
- Six-week introductory courses
- Weekly Sunday morning meditation
- Community special events offer a chance for fellowship while enjoying music, food, presentations and other activities.
- Kalyana mitta ("spiritual friend") or KM groups allows us to deepen our practice in smaller, more intimate settings
- Library of books, videos, tapes and other materials available for free checkout
- Community information and related resources such as retreats and special events outside of IMCC
- IMCC Talks
- Dharma Articles
KM Groups
"Kalyana mitta" groups are small gatherings (8-10 people) of "spiritual friends" that support one other's study of the dharma and its application to everyday life through meditation and dialogue with an emphasis on mindful listening and speaking.
KM meetings often begin with a period of silent meditation followed by a "check-in." Most groups then explore the experiences and situations shared during the check-in. Groups may focus on a specific dharma topic drawn from Buddhist literature or have a special emphasis — such as couples, parenting or chronic pain. All KM groups meet on a regular basis, typically twice a month.
The KM coordinator helps people with similar interests and logistical needs network to form a KM group. Sometimes there are openings in existing groups, and new groups form several times during the year. If you're interested in joining a group or have a group in mind, contact the KM coordinator and provide a completed KM questionnaire. For more information about KM groups contact: Jeffrey Fracher.
Dharma Buddies
The Dharma buddies program connects newer practitioners with experienced meditators who serve as mentors in the development of an Insight Meditation practice. For information contact: Jackie Erskine.
Requirements for mentors are:
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A heartfelt intention to serve the dharma
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A daily practice of Vipassana Meditation
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An interest in further study of basic techniques
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A willingness to offer kind encouragement to newer meditators
Requirements for newer meditators:
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Participation in the Introduction to Mindfulness Class
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Regular attendance at the IMCC Tuesday meetings
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A sincere desire to develop and sustain meditation practice
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An open-hearted curiosity about practice and daily life