Buddhist retreat comprises of meditation, reflection and prayer, allowing practitioners to focus and immerse themselves in spiritual practice as they temporarily step out of their daily lives.

After moving to the present location in September 2006, many of Lama Tashi’s students have expressed interests and conducted short-term personal practice retreats under the guidance of Lamala in a small building located at the West end of the Centre’s parking lot, known as the “White House”. According to the previous owner, the White House building was originally constructed as a barn without foundation. Although without structural issues, small animals and pests could enter the building as the building was not built with proper insulation as well as a heating, ventilation and cooling system. In spite of Lamala and sanghas’ many efforts in addressing these problems and repairing them every year, water and moisture issues persist and new issues arise constantly.

Due to the repeated requests for retreats from Lama Tashi’s students from Toronto and overseas, it is Lamala’s wish to provide a proper facility for his students and serious Buddhist practitioners to engage in short-term practice retreats in the future. The plans for the new retreat house will include a small shrine room at the entrance, eight separate retreat rooms (each equipped with a small personal shrine), and a small library on the main floor. There will be a kitchen, torma room, and a small eating area in the basement.

When great meditation and retreat masters visit to offer special teachings and empowerments in the future, these retreat rooms will also be used for their stays. We believe that this retreat house will be beneficial to many people in the future. Due to the increase in construction costs, we would like to ask for your assistance in funding the costs of this meaningful project.

Any other amount of contribution to this project is also greatly appreciated. We thank you for your support. Please contact Betty Lam [Tel: (416) 270-2233; E-mail: blam2055@gmail.com for further details.