Concluding two months of silent meditation retreat, Sravasti Abbey — the Tibetan Buddhist monastery near Newport — opens its doors on Sunday, April 2 for Sharing the Dharma Day. April’s Sharing the Dharma Day will be combined with a traditional Tibetan Buddhist ceremony to mark the end of retreat and thank the volunteers who supported the monks and nuns in their meditation practice.

Sharing the Dharma Day runs 9:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Abbey, 692 Country Lane outside of Newport. The April 2 schedule is:

- 9:45 a.m. —Gather

- 10 a.m. — Guided meditation

- 11 a.m. — Abbess and founder Ven. Thubten Chodron speaks from the book “An Open-Hearted Life”, which she co-authored with Eastern Washington University psychologist Russell Kolts.

- 12 p.m. — Vegetarian potluck (no egg dishes, onions, or garlic)

- 1:30 p.m. — Lama Chopa offering ceremony and thanks to supporters

The afternoon “Lama Chopa” ceremony is a religious celebration that includes recitations, Tibetan chanting, prayers, and sharing of food offerings. Texts are provided and all are welcome.

Guests may come for the whole day of activities. It is also fine for those less familiar with Buddhism to opt for attending only the morning meditation, talk, and lunch.

Sravasti Abbey offers Sharing the Dharma Day for people of all faiths and backgrounds to visit and learn more about Buddhism. Dress is casual; friendly curiosity and openness to learn are the only pre-requisites.

There is no charge for events at Sravasti Abbey, and offerings of food for the community and/or financial gifts are always welcomed.

Upcoming Sharing the Dharma Day dates are May 7, June 4, July 9, and August 6. Fall/winter dates are as yet undecided.

For more information and directions call 509-447-5549 or email office.sravasti@gmail.com. See the calendar of events at Sravasti.org.