Dear Friends,
I invite you to join us for a meaningful gathering in the Black Hills of South Dakota from July 15th to 20th—the Native American Bearing Witness Retreat.
When we participate in a Zen Peacemaker Bearing Witness Retreat, we engage in a peacemaking process. To bear witness is to experience firsthand that the life of the other is our own, that we are, indeed, one body.
Our Bearing Witness retreats occur where deep human trauma occurred—places where healing is endlessly needed. With each retreat, we seek to contribute to this healing, grounding ourselves in the Three Tenets of the Zen Peacemakers:
Not-Knowing – Letting go of fixed ideas about ourselves, others, and the universe.
Bearing Witness – Opening to both the joy and the suffering of the world.
Taking Action – Responding with clarity and compassion that arises from Not-Knowing and Bearing Witness.
These Three Tenets will anchor our retreat, guiding our presence and practice. While not a traditional Zen sesshin, we create a shared container of awareness—moving together, sharing meals, and fully engaging in the schedule.
Bearing witness in places of deep trauma can stir strong emotions. To support this, we incorporate Council practice, meditation, prayer, and the presence of senior Spirit Holders, who are available for guidance. We also look out for one another, ensuring a supportive space for all.
Please prepare to arrive with this spirit in heart and mind. By coming together in this way, we create space for healing, connection, and understanding.
Spaces are limited, and we encourage you to register soon. You can find more details and sign up here: https://hive.zenpeacemakers.org/events/167558.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions. I would be grateful to have you with us.
In Gratitude,
Jim Hōden Fricker
Zen Peacemakers
Our mission is to realize our oneness and relieve suffering through contemplative social action.
www.zenpeacemakers.org
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