Birken is a Canadian Theravada Buddhist Monastery surrounded by forests and marsh lands. It operates almost entirely off-grid with a high level of energy effiiency. For over 2,000 years the monastic tradition has survived solely on the generous support of the lay community. In return, monastics provide dhamma teachings and spiritual mentorship. Guests are welcome to stay for a retreat or to experience the monastery on a day visit. Guests are also welcome to contribute and partake in the dana meal at 11:30 am. The Abbot, Ajahn Sona is deeply interested in ecological movements at both practical and philosophical levels. While Ajahn Sona no longer provides regular dhamma talks, he guides the green design technologies and principles of the monastery
On our visit, our guide will be a monastic who will familarize us with the outside space as well as the beautiful meditation sala. We will also partake in the dana meal at 11:30 am. There will be time for participants to spend time in quiet reflection both in the meditation sala or the walking paths.