Classes This year we are offering an curriculum of classes integrating work and study called "Unfolding the Beauty of the Human Spirit." Classes cover a range of Buddhist topics from meditation and Tibetan yoga (Kum Nye) to Skillful Means and Buddhist studies.

Volunteers are not required to attend all classes but we do expect participation in at least 2 evening classes per week as part of your committment. See Ratna Ling Class Schedule (pdf)

Skillful Means In 1978, the community's founder Tarthang Tulku wrote the book Skillful Means , a collection of teachings and practices to guide students and volunteers toward a work experience that is meaningful and satisfying. Today volunteers continue to study and practice Skillful Means as a practical guide for turning our work into "work practice," or, in other words, using work as an opportunity to train our minds and gain deeper insights.  

Community Life Living in community asks that we are responsible not only to ourselves but to the whole.   All residents are expected to be on time for work, classes and other activities and to complete community chores outside of work time. We are looking for people who are interested in the process of community life and wish to engage that dynamic by involvement in how to make things better. Ratna Ling upholds basic Buddhist principles such as appropriate behavior toward others, cleanliness, not harming animals or insects and simple practices such as observing essential speech while working, wearing modest clothing during work even in hot weather and removing outdoor shoes for classes and practice.

We are seeking volunteers who wish to take advantage of the unique environment by participating in classes and utilizing free time for meditation practice, reading and study, participating in sacred art projects or developing new skills.

Ceremonies We observe four Buddhist lunar ceremonies per month, plus a special dedication ceremony each Saturday. Everyone is welcome to attend ceremonies but it is not required.  

Sacred Art Projects Volunteers can develop new skills and participate in traditional art forms through side-projects during off-work time and Sundays. There are usually at least one or two sacred art projects going on-site, ranging from woodworking to clay and modeling works, light construction, sewing or hand crafts.

Suggested Reading To become more familiar with our ways of working and practicing, we suggest two books authored by Tarthang Tulku, "Gesture of Balance" and "Skillful Means". Both are available at Dharma Publishing and at some public libraries.