Expert: Laurie McLauglin - 9/5/2009

Question
Hi, I was hoping after sometime of study, I would move in to a retreat or monastery of some kind. what steps would i take in order to do this? Also, am I only able to practice here in the west, or would i be accepted among the culture in the east?

Answer
Hello, Cody -

Thank you for letting me answer your question.

If you are willing to move to India, Japan, Thailand, etc., you would should be able to find a monastery or retreat center.  It is in some ways a little more difficult to live in a retreat center or monastery here in the West because there are not a great deal of them.

As far as what steps to take, I would start by researching the various retreat centers and monasteries in the tradition in which you are practicing.  Then once you find one or two you like, then contact them and see what the requirements are for you to live there.  Many retreat centers like the one I live in requires you to do a work study program where you get room and board paid for and the chance to attend as many spiritual programs as possible in return for a certain amount of work every week.  The requirements to live in a monastery would be more difficult, and might or might not require a serious desire to ordain.

I hope that helped a bit.  If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to ask.

I hope you find a place that works for you and allows you to continue to develop your spiritual path.

Laurie