Finding Illumination in the Darkness: Judaism, Buddhism, and Nonviolent Communication
With Rabbi Ben Newman and Roberta Wall
December 20 - 22, 2024
RETREAT BY INVITED PRESENTER
Join us for a nourishing retreat integrating mindfulness practices from Judaism, Buddhism, and Nonviolent Communication as a celebration of inner illumination. Through periods of silence, learning, meditation, enriching discussions and Nonviolent Communication practices, you will find a sense of rejuvenation and renewed purpose. You will gain tools for inner growth, compassionate communication, and spiritual illumination, bringing light into your own lives and relationships through community, music, ritual, and teachings that encourage deep reflection and connection. Whether you are well-versed or new to Judaism, Buddhism, Nonviolent Communication, or spiritual practice, this retreat offers a welcoming embrace.
Cover image courtesy of David Friedman.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
- Integration of Multiple Spiritual Traditions: Explore a unique blend of Jewish, Buddhist, and Nonviolent Communication teachings, offering a holistic approach to personal and spiritual growth.
- Musical and Meditative Shabbat Services: Experience deeply moving Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat morning services led by Rabbi Ben Newman, incorporating music, chanting, and Torah wisdom with Ben and Roberta’s Torah at the Intersection.
- Hasidic Storytelling: Delve into the rich wisdom of Hasidic tales and their relevance to modern life, enhancing your spiritual journey through storytelling.
- Jewish and Buddhist-Inspired Meditation Techniques: Learn and practice meditative methods, including those of Kabbalist Abraham Abulafia, focusing on spiritual enlightenment through mystical traditions.
- Nature Connection: Participate in a mindful meditative walk through the serene surroundings of the Dharmakaya Center, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
- Nonviolent Communication Workshops: Engage in interactive sessions led by Roberta Wall, where you’ll practice NVC techniques to enhance communication and build more compassionate relationships.
- Interactive Discussions and Q&A: Participate in engaging discussions and Q&A sessions with both Rabbi Ben Newman and Roberta Wall, providing personalized guidance and support.
You will experience all this in an intimate setting with a small group, allowing for personal interactions with the teachers and a more tailored retreat.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
- Intimate setting with personal access to the teachers, Rabbi Ben Newman and Roberta Wall
- Interactive sessions with question and answer periods
- Shamatha and guided meditations
- Delicious all-vegetarian meals with locally sourced ingredients
- Option to extend stay on Personal Retreat for further reflection
- Extensive library of dharma and spiritual books
- Expansive wooded grounds with beautiful paths, flora and fauna for meditative walks and nature connection
OPEN TO ALL
This retreat is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming space for all, regardless of previous experience with these traditions. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersections of Jewish, Buddhist, and Nonviolent Communication teachings in a supportive community. Whether you are seeking personal growth, spiritual insight, or simply a peaceful retreat, this program provides a sanctuary for your journey.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
While no specific pre-reading is required, you might benefit from familiarizing yourself with the basics of Nonviolent Communication, as well as some introductory texts on Jewish and Buddhist mindfulness practices. Suggested readings include:
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, by Marshall Rosenberg
The Way of Mindful Education, by Daniel Rechtschaffen
The Experience of Insight, by Joseph Goldstein
The Miracle of Mindfulness, by Thich Nhat Hanh
Ehyeh: A Kabbalah of Tomorrow, by Rabbi Dr. Arthur Green
Jewish With Feeling, by Rabbi Zalman Schachter Shalomi
Jewish Meditation Practices for Everyday Life, by Rabbi Jeff Roth
Torah at the Intersection, by Roberta Wall
Participants are also encouraged to come with an open heart and a willingness to engage deeply in the practices offered.
SCHEDULE
(subject to change)
Friday, December 20
| 3:00-5:00 PM | Arrival and Registration: |
| Welcome participants, provide materials, and settle into accommodations | |
| 4:00-5:00 PM | Meditation Hall open for ongoing individual shabbat candle lighting, altar creation, and silent meditation |
| 5:00-6:30 PM | Opening program, introductions, and intention setting |
| 6:30-6:45 PM | Short break |
| 6:45-8:00 PM | Shabbat Kiddush and Festive Dinner |
| 8:00-9:30 PM | Contemplative musical Kabbalat Shabbat with discussion and guided closing meditation practice |
| 9:30-10:00 PM | Optional Silent Meditation (participant led) |
| 10:00 PM | Lights Out |
Saturday, December 21
| 7:30-8:00 AM | Meditation practice from Thich Nhat Hanh Buddhist Tradition |
| 8:00-9:00 AM | Breakfast |
| 9:00 AM-12:00 PM | Morning Program |
| Shabbat Morning Musical Chanting and Contemplative Service and Meditation | |
| Teachings and Discussion Weaving Torah and Kabbalistic Teachings, Buddhism, and Nonviolent Communication |
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| Small Group Discussion: Illumination in Torah | |
| 12:00-1:00 PM | Lunch |
| 1:00-2:00 PM | Meditative Walk (indoors or outdoors) |
| Explore the beautiful surroundings of the Dharmakaya Center in a mindful walk in solitude or group walking meditation | |
| 2:30-4:00 PM | Afternoon Program: Nonviolent Communication |
| 4:00-6:00 PM | Free time: |
| Optional Small Group Gatherings to wander trails, meditate, or be in community | |
| 5:00-5:30 PM | Optional Silent Meditation (participant led) |
| 6:00-7:00 PM | Dinner |
| 7:30-9:30 PM | Evening Program: |
| Mystical Stories as a Mirror | |
| Harvesting Insights from the Day | |
| Small group connection breakouts | |
| 9:30-10:00 PM | Optional Silent Meditation (participant led) |
| 10:00 PM | Lights out |
Sunday, December 22
| 7:00-8:00 AM | Kabbalah (mystical) Chanting Meditation Practice |
| Experience practices for spiritual enlightenment inspired by 13th century Spanish Kabbalist Abraham Abulafia, followed by silent meditation | |
| 8:00-9:00 AM | Breakfast with your small group |
| 9:15-10:30 AM | Nonviolent Communication |
| 10:45 AM- 12:00 PM | Closing Circle |
| Discussion and questions | |
| Integration and transition back to daily life | |
| Share final reflections and blessings | |
| 12:00-1:00 PM | Lunch |
| 1:00-2:00 PM | Checkout and Departure |
Teachers
Rabbi Ben Newman embodies mindful Judaism, intertwining over 20 years of study in Jewish and Buddhist wisdom teachings. As a singer-songwriter and storyteller, he enhances contemplative practices with heartfelt chanting and melodies from his guitar, ukulele, and harmonium. An ordained rabbi since 2006, Rabbi Ben founded the Shtiebel in the Rivertowns, promoting inclusive spiritual experiences. His books, such as The Ten Precepts: a Jewish-Buddhist translation of the Ten Commandments, showcase his deep commitment to spiritual exploration. Beloved by learners of all ages, his children’s tales also captivate hearts. Studying worldwide, from Japan to renowned rabbinical colleges, Rabbi Ben’s rich tapestry…
Learn more about Rabbi Ben Newman
Many years ago Roberta Wall’s Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh encouraged her to find the mindfulness in her root Jewish tradition. Now, drawing on two decades of immersion in Jewish learning and practices in the US and Israel, Roberta publishes Torah at the Intersection, a weekly blog integrating the teachings of Buddhism, Judaism and Nonviolent Communication (NVC). For over 20 years she has been offering Jewish Mindfulness retreats and practices and Nonviolent Communication Mindfulness practices in Jewish, Buddhist and other communities, schools, war zones, leadership trainings and organizations globally. She has shared Nonviolent Communication in Palestine and Israel for over ten…
Learn more about Roberta Wall
