Red Clay Sangha upcoming events

Movie Night - Tashi and the Monk (11 Jul 2026)

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Mindful Moments

Movie: Tashi and the Monk (2014)

Saturday, July 11, 2026, 4:00pm

In Person at the Sangha

We’re delighted to announce the next Mindful Moments event. This time, we will be watching the film Tashi and the Monk. As always, this event is open to the general public, and we warmly encourage you to invite friends and community members to join us. The viewing will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 4:00 pm. Light snacks and tea will be provided for the benefit of all beings.

About the Film

Tashi and the Monk follows Buddhist monk Lobsang Phuntsok, trained under His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who returns to the Indian Himalayas to create a community called Jhamtse Gatsal: The Garden of Love and Compassion. The film centers on Tashi, a wild and troubled five-year-old girl, as she learns about love and healing in this unique community. This inspiring documentary invites viewers to reflect on compassion, healing, and the power of mindful care.

About the Mindful Moments Cultural Event Series

Each month, RCS is delighted to host cultural events that foster meaningful connections among members of our sangha and the wider community. These gatherings take place monthly on a Saturday afternoon and feature a variety of activities, including hiking, art, music, crafts, games, movies, and more. Our aim is to provide a relaxed setting where individuals can share their interests with others, while also building community. All are welcome.

What to Expect

After gathering in the space the movie will be presented, followed by group discussion. Light refreshments will be provided. Familiarity with meditation practices and Buddhist traditions is not required. Bring a friend!

While registration is not required, it helps the organizers immensely for space and snack planning purposes.

Cost There is no cost to attend this event.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Chamblee, GA 30341

Questions or Need More Information?

Please contact Natalie and Clay.

One Day Retreat w/ Gareth Young (18 Jul 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:00:00 GMT

One-Day Retreat with Gareth Young

Saturday, July 18th, 2026, from 9:00 to 5:00

This retreat offers a space for practitioners to stabilize, ground, and find safety in the dharma, and to deepen practice. Gareth will offer teachings from the Chan and Pali traditions to support and sustain attendees. One-day retreats are a wonderful opportunity to deepen practice, and practitioners are encouraged to spend the full day to receive the full benefit of this retreat.

Gareth Young is a co-founder and the guiding teacher of Red Clay Sangha. He has maintained a committed meditation practice for over 25 years in the Chan/Zen and Nikaya/Pali traditions, and integrates over 10 years of interfaith engagement into his teaching.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

What to expect: This will be a full day of sitting and walking meditation practice, with a dharma talk mid-morning, a break for lunch midday, and a group discussion/ Q&A in the middle of the afternoon. All are welcome, no previous experience with meditation required. Attending for the full day is recommended, but if you are only able to come for a short period, you are welcome to do so: please just enter and leave quietly, respecting the practice of others.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Food: There will be a break around noon for lunch. Please bring your meal. There is a refrigerator on premise if you wish to store food in it, as well as a kettle and a variety of tea bags if you'd like to make yourself tea.

Schedule: The door will be open by 8:45 for arrival and settling in. At 9:00 Gareth will give a brief introduction and orientation, and we will begin sitting around 9:10. We will likely finish a few minutes before 5:00. There will be a dharma talk mid-morning, a Q&A/ Discussion period mid-afternoon, and the balance of the day (other than the break for lunch) will be alternating periods of approximately 30 minutes of sitting and walking meditation.

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (20 Jul 2026)

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 23:00:00 GMT

RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group, led by Katie Rhodes

Third Monday of the Month

7:00-8:30 PM on Zoom

Monthly Practice Group

Insight dialogue is a powerful practice that helps bring mindfulness, wisdom and compassion into our inter-relational life using six guidelines of Pause, Relax, Open, Attune to emergence, Listen Deeply and Speak the Truth. The guidelines set conditions for safety and mindful presence. The practice invites slowing down and reconnecting with what is most alive in you.

For the next several months we will be exploring the Noble Eight Fold Path as a living, relational, and embodied path that meets us in our daily lives.

We will be using the book ‘A Whole Life Path: A Lay Buddhist’s Guide to Crafting a Dharma Infused Life by Gregory Kramer as reference. There is no need to read or study ahead of the sessions.

Experience with insight dialogue practice is not necessary. We are looking to develop a core group of sangha friends with a commitment towards study and practice together.

Please email me at katie@katierhodes.net if you are interested, have questions, or want to be on an email list for the RCS Insight Dialogue Practice group. IInsight Dialogue is an interpersonal meditation practice that uses natural human connectedness and the wisdom teachings of the Buddha to practice mindfulness meditation with others. It is particularly useful for investigating habitual responses in our actions of thought, word and deed.

This is a monthly opportunity to practice with friends from Red Clay Sangha. It is offered as a way for us to connect with each other using the ID meditation guidelines: Pause, Relax, Open, Attune to Emergence, Speak the Truth and Listen Deeply. We will be learning and sharing as we practice together.

The session will include individual meditation practice, contemplation practice with a partner, and practice as a group.

You can learn more about Insight Dialogue from the ID Community website https://insightdialogue.org/

Katie Rhodes is a member of Red Clay Sangha. She has been a Buddhist practitioner for over 30 years, primarily in the Insight/Vipassana tradition. She has been practicing Insight Dialogue meditation since 2023 and is a member of the Northeast Insight Dialogue Teachers Cohort.

She uses mindfulness-based cognitive approaches in her work as a psychotherapist. She has a doctorate in clinical social work.

Questions? Please email Katie Rhodes

What to expect

All are welcome, no previous experience with meditation or Insight Dialogue experience is required.

This practice group will meet on Zoom.

To attend the session online: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550.

Questions or to Sign up to Receive Emails about RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group

Please email Katie Rhodes

Women's Circle (26 Jul 2026)

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Women's Circle

on Zoom, every 4th Sunday from 2PM to 3:30PM

This is a monthly drop-in group offering a supportive place to ask questions and to share our experience of the dharma. After a brief period of seated meditation, we begin with a reading or special topic, followed by group discussion. We are meeting via Zoom Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550).

All who identify as women are welcome, from any spiritual background. No previous experience with meditation is necessary.

Each month a different member of the group brings, readings or questions that they are either particularly interested in or find puzzling.

Meetings are from 2:00 to 3:30, held on the fourth Sunday of the month.

We are glad to add you to our email list, if you would like the reminder & follow up emails. For more information please contact: SoKai/Charli Vogt.

We use the Sunday link to Zoom: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550

Working with Mental Factors (01 Aug 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Working with Mental Factors

First Saturday of the Month, from 9:30 to Noon

The Dhammapada states "Mind is the forerunner of all things", the Avatamsaka Sutra states, "The Triple World is only Mind", and the Vimilakirti Sutra states, "If the mind is pure, the Buddha-land is pure". Working with, and (in the language of many sutras) purifying our minds, is foundational to Buddhist practice. Developing the teachings of the Pali cannon Abhidharma, Yogacara - the school of Buddhism founded on the principle that the world is a projection or construction of mind itself - built a list of 51 mental factors for us to work with to do just this.

In this study series, Gareth will provide context for Yogacara and the mental factors, and will work through the factors (updated to include contemporary factors) in a practical, hands-on manner, helping participants learn how to identify them when they arise, understand their attributes and how they hijack our minds and bodies, and cultivate antidotes so that we are able to restore our minds and our bodies to equanimity.

Reference materials will be provided during the classes as aids for our practice, and a variety of guided meditations and other practical instruction and guidance will be offered.

Gareth Young is a co-founder and the guiding teacher of Red Clay Sangha. He has maintained a committed meditation practice for over 25 years in the Chan/Zen and Nikaya traditions, and integrates over 10 years of interfaith engagement into his teaching.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

What to expect: Each of the 5 sessions will include a lecture by Gareth, a period such as a guided meditation to bring the teachings into life and practice, and a group discussion.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Food: After the session, any who wish to go out for lunch with Gareth can continue the conversation over our food.

Registration: Please register for the class, even if you cannot attend every session. This will help ensure the sufficiency of materials.

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

Chanting with Gareth Young (01 Aug 2026)

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Chanting with Gareth Young

Bi-Monthly on Saturdays, 2:00PM to 5:00PM

In Person

Chanting is an important Buddhist practice used extensively in most Buddhist lineages. It serves not just to aid memory and recall of the suttas/ sutras, but also to strengthen the feeling of sangha and to quiet the thinking mind and help provide access to the unconditioned mind. And chanting is an important part of our practice at Red Clay Sangha.

After a successful and popular study and practice session, a collective decision was made to continue chanting practice on a regular basis. Each session will be different as we draw on different chants, practices, and traditions, and as we take different approaches to chant duration, whether we are standing or walking or sitting, etc. And each session will stand completely on its own without direct correlation to prior or subsequent sessions. So please join us.

Note that these sessions are in person only. The dynamics of chanting and of sharing space together are important and this doesn't translate well to a hybrid or Zoom environment.

Gareth Young is a co-founder and the guiding teacher of Red Clay Sangha. He has maintained a committed meditation practice for over 20 years in the Zen and Vipassana traditions, and integrates over 10 years of interfaith engagement into his teaching.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Cost There is no cost to attend this retreat. Donations to Red Clay Sangha are gratefully received.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd.

Chanting Materials The chanting materials we use will often draw from our liturgy and the chants identified on our resources page but will also include other materials. In all cases the specific chants will be provided on the day (and no preparation or prior knowledge is necessary).

Questions or More Information? Please contactGareth Young by email.

A Day of Silence w/ Gareth Young (15 Aug 2026)

Sat, 15 Aug 2026 13:00:00 GMT

A Day of Silence with Gareth Young

Saturday, August 15th, 2026, from 9:00 to 5:00

Join Gareth for a day of noble silence to take a complete - though brief - vacation from the past, the future, and the present, from our daily stresses, from our lives. This period of silent practice allows for both calming and insight, peace and wisdom to emerge.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (17 Aug 2026)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 23:00:00 GMT

RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group, led by Katie Rhodes

Third Monday of the Month

7:00-8:30 PM on Zoom

Monthly Practice Group

For the next several months we will be exploring the Noble Eight Fold Path as a living, relational, and embodied path that meets us in our daily lives.

We will be using the book ‘A Whole Life Path: A Lay Buddhist’s Guide to Crafting a Dharma Infused Life by Gregory Kramer as reference. There is no need to read or study ahead of the sessions.

Experience with insight dialogue practice is not necessary. We are looking to develop a core group of sangha friends with a commitment towards study and practice together.

You can learn more about Insight Dialogue from the ID Community website https://insightdialogue.org/

She uses mindfulness-based cognitive approaches in her work as a psychotherapist. She has a doctorate in clinical social work.

Questions? Please email Katie Rhodes

What to expect

All are welcome, no previous experience with meditation or Insight Dialogue experience is required.

This practice group will meet on Zoom.

To attend the session online: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550.

Questions or to Sign up to Receive Emails about RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group

Please email Katie Rhodes

Mindful Moments - GameDay (22 Aug 2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 20:00:00 GMT

GAMEDAY

Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 4:00pm

In Person at the Sangha

Grab your favorite set of dice and invite a friend! This month, we welcome all to swing by the Sangha for an easy-going afternoon of skillful enter action over some of our favorite party games. Many people understand that Buddhist teachings ask practitioners to look inwards for peace and the end of suffering, but the Buddha also emphasized the importance of being engaged with a compassionate and supportive community. It is our hope that an unstructured game night will provide guests with the opportunity to mindfully participate in a shared practice and have fun doing so all at the same time.

This event will be held from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug 22nd at Red Clay Sangha. Below you will find a list of games for a variety of ages and interests that will be available to play. We encourage participants to invite friends and family to share in the fun. As always, tea and snacks will be provided for the benefit of all beings.

Wise & Otherwise: a game where you complete famous words of wisdom from around the world often with hilarious results.

New Yorker Cartoon Caption Game: a game where you provide captions to cartoons from the titular publication.

Telestrations: a game of drawing and guessing.

Bang: an old-west style bluffing game

Apples to Apples: a family-friendly party game where players take turns mixing and matching pairs of words with silly results.

Cards Against Humanity: a cruder, ruder, and funnier version of Apples to Apples

Castle Panic: a cooperative tower-defense game where players protect their castle from attacking monsters.

Forbidden Island: a game of treasure-hunting adventures on a slowly sinking island.

Pandemic: a cooperative game where players try to save the world from deadly diseases.

Carcassonne: a tile-laying game where players map out the French countryside.

MindTrap: a lateral-thinking puzzle game.

Trial By Trolley: a game of creating humorous moral dilemmas for other players to confront.

Poetry for Neanderthals: a password guessing game where players can only use one-syllable words to describe the answer to their teammates.

We’re All Doomed!: a semi-cooperative game of escaping a doomed planet – often at the expense of your fellow players.

About the Mindful Moments Cultural Event Series

What to Expect

Light refreshments will be provided. Familiarity with meditation practices and Buddhist traditions is not required. Bring a friend!

While registration is not required, it helps the organizers immensely for space and snack planning purposes.

CostThere is no cost to attend this event.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Chamblee, GA 30341

Questions or Need More Information?

Please contact Natalie and Clay.

Women's Circle (23 Aug 2026)

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Women's Circle

on Zoom, every 4th Sunday from 2PM to 3:30PM

All who identify as women are welcome, from any spiritual background. No previous experience with meditation is necessary.

Each month a different member of the group brings, readings or questions that they are either particularly interested in or find puzzling.

Meetings are from 2:00 to 3:30, held on the fourth Sunday of the month.

We are glad to add you to our email list, if you would like the reminder & follow up emails. For more information please contact: SoKai/Charli Vogt.

We use the Sunday link to Zoom: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550

Practicing with Poetry: with Clay Roper (29 Aug 2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Practicing with Poetry

An experiential approach to using verse within a Buddhist context

Saturday August 29th
In person at Red Clay Sangha

“My chest of books divide among my friends.” – John Keats

Please join us at Red Clay Sangha on the morning of August 29 at 11 a.m. to explore the transformative and awakening properties of written verse. Although Buddhism has a rich history of poetry that stretches across the globe and spans the length of more than 2,500 years, this short program is focused on finding the wisdom offered by poets from a variety of cultural backgrounds. The purpose of this practice is to highlight how Buddha nature can be observed within all poetic minds.

The practice will begin with a short 20-minute period of meditation to establish a calm mind before we then turn our attention to a short collection of poems that illustrate some simple Buddhist concepts. After a discussion, a collection of poetry books and magazines will be made available so that participants can find a piece that speaks to their inner wisdom. A second 20-minute period of meditation will provide everyone the opportunity to reflect deeply on the verses they selected. We will then close the practice with an opportunity for people to share any insights, thoughts, or feelings about their experience.

This program will be facilitated by Clay Roper, a member of the sangha and poetry enthusiast. Clay has been a Buddhist practitioner for roughly 4 years and is currently a graduate student of rehabilitation counseling at Mercer University. He has found poetry to be a powerful tool for gaining insight and alleviating suffering. This is his opportunity to share this experience with anyone interested in the healing properties of poetry.

Working with Mental Factors (05 Sep 2026)

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Working with Mental Factors

First Saturday of the Month, from 9:30 to Noon

Reference materials will be provided during the classes as aids for our practice, and a variety of guided meditations and other practical instruction and guidance will be offered.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

What to expect: Each of the 5 sessions will include a lecture by Gareth, a period such as a guided meditation to bring the teachings into life and practice, and a group discussion.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Food: After the session, any who wish to go out for lunch with Gareth can continue the conversation over our food.

Registration: Please register for the class, even if you cannot attend every session. This will help ensure the sufficiency of materials.

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

Community Service Project (05 Sep 2026)

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Community Service Project

Nicholas House

10:00 - 1:00 Sept 5th, 2026

Sister sanghas, Red Clay and Peach Blossom, collaborate to bring Buddhist values off the cushion and into the world through compassionate service. Rooted in the principles of generosity, kindness, and the alleviation of suffering, service projects offer meaningful ways to connect with community — and each other.

Whether you're a long-time practitioner or simply moved to lend a hand; whether you're a sangha member, an occasional visitor, or the friend of family member of anyone; whether you're a Buddhist or a Christian or a Muslim, or any other "ist", whether you've ever attended either Red Clay or Peach Blossom or not, you're warmly invited to join us. Come be part of something bigger than yourself.

What: Nicholas House, a rehabilitation center for unhoused families at 830 Boulevard SE Atlanta, GA 30312. Prepare lunch for 40 guests and volunteers at Nicholas House. Arrive at Nicholas House at 10:00 AM to finish prep, reheat, plate, serve and eat a meal together. We will finish clean up and head out by about 1:00 PM.

Where: Nicholas House 830 Boulevard SE Atlanta, GA 30312

When: 10:00 AM-1:00 PM (approx) Sept 5th, 2026

Movie Night - I Origins (12 Sep 2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Mindful Moments

Movie: I Origins (2014)

Saturday, September 12, 2026, 4:00pm

In Person at the Sangha

We’re delighted to announce the next Mindful Moments event. This time, we will be watching the film I Origins. As always, this event is open to the general public, and we warmly encourage you to invite friends and community members to join us. The viewing will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 4:00 pm. Light snacks and tea will be provided for the benefit of all beings.

About the Film

I Origins tells the story of a molecular biologist whose study of the human eye leads him on a profound spiritual journey. After a fleeting encounter with a mysterious woman, he discovers a revelation that challenges his understanding of life, love, and the soul. As he travels across the globe to explore the deeper meaning behind his discovery, the film invites viewers to reflect on the connections between science, reincarnation, and the mysteries of existence, offering a meditative exploration of faith, destiny, and the unseen forces that shape our lives.

About the Mindful Moments Cultural Event Series

What to Expect

While registration is not required, it helps the organizers immensely for space and snack planning purposes.

Cost There is no cost to attend this event.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Chamblee, GA 30341

Questions or Need More Information?

Please contact Natalie and Clay.

Five-Day Residential Retreat with Gareth Young (16 Sep 2026)

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Five-Day Residential Retreat with Gareth Young

Wednesday September 16 - Sunday September 20, 2026

YMCA Camp Ocoee, Ocoee, TN

It's easy, in this time of amplified societal and personal stress, to find ourselves stressed and overwhelmed. This five-day silent meditation retreat offers the space to step away from the noise and enter calm and stillness. It's an opportunity to let go of the concerns of everyday life and, beyond past, present and future, to uncover deep peace and insight. It's a space in which we can taste the peace and wisdom that is our birthright.

While a single day of retreat can offer a taste of stillness, a multi-day retreat allows that stillness to settle in—to move beyond surface calm. With each passing day, as distractions fade, clarity emerges. You’ll notice how stress arises and dissipates, how habitual patterns loosen their grip, and how joy and ease naturally take their place. It is a practice that can bring peace and joy, compassion and insight to our everyday lives.

Gareth's teaching meets you where you are: whatever your practice is, that's fine, just bring it with you. Drawing mostly from the Pali canon and the Chan Buddhist tradition, Gareth will offer additional methods and guidance to help you strengthen and deepen your practice. In addition to dharma teachings and practices, this retreat will include periods of loving-kindness practice, chanting services, and other calming and grounding practices to help us stabilize and settle in turbulent times.

Nestled within the lush forests of Camp Ocoee, this retreat offers a tranquil escape where nature itself supports your practice. Mornings begin with the gentle hush of the trees, days unfold by the serene lake, and each session takes place in the warm, inviting lodge designed for deep reflection. With comfortable accommodation, nourishing vegetarian meals, and a community of fellow practitioners, you’ll find the perfect environment to settle into stillness. Whether you're experienced in meditation or new to multi-day retreats, this extended period of silence will help you cultivate a steadier mind and a more open heart—both on and off the cushion.

If you are longing for a true reset, the kind that lingers long after you return home, this retreat is for you.

Gareth Young is a co-founder and the guiding teacher of Red Clay Sangha. He has maintained a committed meditation practice for over 20 years in the Zen, Chan and Nikaya traditions, and integrates over 15 years of interfaith engagement into his teaching. Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Location: YMCA Camp Ocoee, Ocoee, TN (about 2 hours north of Atlanta). For more information, visit the Camp Ocoee Website

Schedule and Arrival: Registration will be from 4:00 to 6:00 on Wed. September 16th, 2026. Please plan to arrive during this window. Instruction on work duties and other retreat matters will be provided after dinner, and it is enormously helpful if all are present for this segment of the day. The retreat begins with dinner at 6:00 pm on Wednesday evening and finishes up by noon on Sunday the 20th. A full schedule will be available prior to the retreat's start date.

Accommodation: Rooms are comfortable and spacious with adequate bathroom facilities. The rooms are generally shared, but at far less than their maximum capacity. We do our best to accommodate the needs and wishes of attendees but are generally unable to provide private sleeping.

Meals: Vegetarian meals will be provided. Vegan, dairy and gluten-free options will be available for every meal; snacks will also be available. Please mention any dietary restrictions on the registration form.

Cost: We work hard to keep our fees to a minimum but cannot avoid significant out-of-pocket costs for the space and food for a residential retreat. The per-person attendance fee to cover these is $360. (Please note the section on "Financial Assistance" below.)

Payment and Refund and Cancellation Policies

Payment: Payment in full is preferred at time of registration. However, it is permissible to pay half at time of registration and the rest thirty days prior to the start of the retreat. Should RCS need to cancel a retreat for any reason (unlikely), all payments would be refunded in full.

Refund policy for cancellations: If you register and cancel 30 days or more prior to the retreat start date, you will receive a full refund. Cancellation up to 15 days prior to the start date will receive a 50% refund. No refunds are available after that date.

If you have registered for the retreat and need to cancel, please contact the retreat administrator asap.

Financial Assistance: One of Red Clay's goals is for everyone to be able to attend regardless of ability to pay. To achieve this goal, a scholarship fund has been accumulated from donations from previous retreats and is available to help pay for those who need financial assistance. If financial assistance would make it easier for you to attend this retreat, you are encouraged contact the retreat administrator who will be happy to process your request.

Testimonials From Past Attendees

"The grounding practices Gareth introduced were so helpful! I feel more solid in
my practice than I ever have before and more contented outside my sitting practice."

-KD (attended in 2026)

"The 5-day retreat offered me a chance to disconnect from daily distractions and find inner peace. I experienced reduced stress, improved concentration, and a deeper understanding of myself. The structured environment also encouraged self-discipline and emotional balance. Plus, being in a community of like-minded individuals was supportive and inspiring. This type of immersion is very difficult to experience in a daylong retreat."
- Amit (attended retreat in 2024)

"You might not expect that sitting, walking, and eating in complete silence alongside others for nearly five days could foster such a strong sense of community, but I discovered a renewed connection with everyone around me once the noise of everyday life was left behind.

The clear mountain air and serene setting created the perfect environment to unplug from the constant demands of modern technology. I found it surprisingly easy to set aside my phone and refrain from using it for nearly a week.

I am happy for future opportunities to participate in more retreats and hope to gain further insights from peacefully coexisting within such an accommodating community."
- Clay (attended retreat in 2024)

Questions or More Information? Please contact Kevin Jones.

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (18 Sep 2026)

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Dear Sangha Members,

Sacred Friends invite you to join upcoming Fall Interfaith Program, "Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism". With the increasing need for interreligious understanding and fellowship, our Sacred Friends have decided to begin a series of in-depth programs on five of the World’s Major Religions. We begin this Fall 2026 with a study of the most ancient faith, Hinduism! In cooperation with Hindu leaders and followers, we will embark on an eight-week examination of the Hindu faith including its extensive history, unique cosmology, complex theology, and diverse practices. Together, we will gather on Tuesday evenings to listen to a short talk by a Hindu leader and then, spend the remainder of our time discussing these presentations in our small, interfaith circles. We will begin and end each meeting with interfaith prayer and a brief large group sharing. A week prior to each meeting, we will receive a short, five-page reading that will prepare us for the topic of each talk.

We will also be invited to participate in three Guided Hindu Temple Visits. These exclusive visits will provide further context and texture for our learning. Together, we will endeavor to better understand the Hindu faith and our Hindu neighbors.

As in the past, Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism is a free Zoom series and will be held Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 15 – Nov. 3. Friend Circles will be composed of 4-6 persons of different faiths.

Check out their website for more info.

Click Here to Register

For further information, please contact sacredfriends@att.ne

Questions: Please contact Deborah

With gratitude,
Red Clay Sangha

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (21 Sep 2026)

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group, led by Katie Rhodes

Third Monday of the Month

7:00-8:30 PM on Zoom

Monthly Practice Group

For the next several months we will be exploring the Noble Eight Fold Path as a living, relational, and embodied path that meets us in our daily lives.

We will be using the book ‘A Whole Life Path: A Lay Buddhist’s Guide to Crafting a Dharma Infused Life by Gregory Kramer as reference. There is no need to read or study ahead of the sessions.

Experience with insight dialogue practice is not necessary. We are looking to develop a core group of sangha friends with a commitment towards study and practice together.

You can learn more about Insight Dialogue from the ID Community website https://insightdialogue.org/

She uses mindfulness-based cognitive approaches in her work as a psychotherapist. She has a doctorate in clinical social work.

Questions? Please email Katie Rhodes

What to expect

All are welcome, no previous experience with meditation or Insight Dialogue experience is required.

This practice group will meet on Zoom.

To attend the session online: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550.

Questions or to Sign up to Receive Emails about RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group

Please email Katie Rhodes

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (25 Sep 2026)

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Dear Sangha Members,

Check out their website for more info.

Click Here to Register

For further information, please contact sacredfriends@att.ne

Questions: Please contact Deborah

With gratitude,
Red Clay Sangha

Resilience, Navigating a Troubled World (26 Sep 2026)

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Resilience, Navigating a Troubled World

September 26th, 2026

Most of us are caught between wondering if we are doing enough to create peace in the world and wanting to retreat into a conflict free bubble. This workshop hopes to offer skillful means to navigate and alleviate polarization and discord within our families, workplaces, and community. More information to come.

Pat McMahon

Location: On Zoom and in person at 3315 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd.

For more information, contact Pat.

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (02 Oct 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Dear Sangha Members,

Check out their website for more info.

Click Here to Register

For further information, please contact sacredfriends@att.ne

Questions: Please contact Deborah

With gratitude,
Red Clay Sangha

Working with Mental Factors (03 Oct 2026)

Sat, 03 Oct 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Working with Mental Factors

First Saturday of the Month, from 9:30 to Noon

Reference materials will be provided during the classes as aids for our practice, and a variety of guided meditations and other practical instruction and guidance will be offered.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

What to expect: Each of the 5 sessions will include a lecture by Gareth, a period such as a guided meditation to bring the teachings into life and practice, and a group discussion.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Food: After the session, any who wish to go out for lunch with Gareth can continue the conversation over our food.

Registration: Please register for the class, even if you cannot attend every session. This will help ensure the sufficiency of materials.

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (09 Oct 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Dear Sangha Members,

Check out their website for more info.

Click Here to Register

For further information, please contact sacredfriends@att.ne

Questions: Please contact Deborah

With gratitude,
Red Clay Sangha

Chanting with Gareth Young (10 Oct 2026)

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Chanting with Gareth Young

Bi-Monthly on Saturdays, 2:00PM to 5:00PM

In Person

Note that these sessions are in person only. The dynamics of chanting and of sharing space together are important and this doesn't translate well to a hybrid or Zoom environment.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Cost There is no cost to attend this retreat. Donations to Red Clay Sangha are gratefully received.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd.

Questions or More Information? Please contactGareth Young by email.

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (16 Oct 2026)

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Dear Sangha Members,

Check out their website for more info.

Click Here to Register

For further information, please contact sacredfriends@att.ne

Questions: Please contact Deborah

With gratitude,
Red Clay Sangha

One Day Retreat w/ Gareth Young (17 Oct 2026)

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 13:00:00 GMT

One-Day Retreat with Gareth Young

Saturday, October 17th, 2026, from 9:00 to 5:00

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (19 Oct 2026)

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group, led by Katie Rhodes

Third Monday of the Month

7:00-8:30 PM on Zoom

Monthly Practice Group

For the next several months we will be exploring the Noble Eight Fold Path as a living, relational, and embodied path that meets us in our daily lives.

We will be using the book ‘A Whole Life Path: A Lay Buddhist’s Guide to Crafting a Dharma Infused Life by Gregory Kramer as reference. There is no need to read or study ahead of the sessions.

Experience with insight dialogue practice is not necessary. We are looking to develop a core group of sangha friends with a commitment towards study and practice together.

You can learn more about Insight Dialogue from the ID Community website https://insightdialogue.org/

She uses mindfulness-based cognitive approaches in her work as a psychotherapist. She has a doctorate in clinical social work.

Questions? Please email Katie Rhodes

What to expect

All are welcome, no previous experience with meditation or Insight Dialogue experience is required.

This practice group will meet on Zoom.

To attend the session online: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550.

Questions or to Sign up to Receive Emails about RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group

Please email Katie Rhodes

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (23 Oct 2026)

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Dear Sangha Members,

Check out their website for more info.

Click Here to Register

For further information, please contact sacredfriends@att.ne

Questions: Please contact Deborah

With gratitude,
Red Clay Sangha

Movie Night - The Fountain (24 Oct 2026)

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Mindful Moments

Movie: The Fountain (2006)

Saturday, October 24, 2026, 4:00pm

In Person at the Sangha

We’re delighted to announce the next Mindful Moments event. This time, we will be watching the film The Fountain. As always, this event is open to the general public, and we warmly encourage you to invite friends and community members to join us. The viewing will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 4:00 pm. Light snacks and tea will be provided for the benefit of all beings.

About the Film

The Fountain is a visually poetic and emotionally resonant film that weaves together three interconnected stories across time, all centered on love, loss, and the human longing for immortality. Spanning 16th-century Spain, the present-day United States, and a distant, dreamlike future, the film follows a man’s quest to save the woman he loves, even as he struggles to accept the natural cycles of life and death. Through striking imagery, meditative pacing, and a powerful musical score, The Fountain invites viewers to contemplate impermanence, devotion, and the possibility of transformation through letting go. Rather than offering easy answers, the film encourages reflection on how love endures not by conquering death, but by embracing the meaning found within it.

About the Mindful Moments Cultural Event Series

What to Expect

While registration is not required, it helps the organizers immensely for space and snack planning purposes.

Cost There is no cost to attend this event.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Chamblee, GA 30341

Questions or Need More Information?

Please contact Natalie and Clay.

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (30 Oct 2026)

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Dear Sangha Members,

Check out their website for more info.

Click Here to Register

For further information, please contact sacredfriends@att.ne

Questions: Please contact Deborah

With gratitude,
Red Clay Sangha

Working with Mental Factors (07 Nov 2026)

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Working with Mental Factors

First Saturday of the Month, from 9:30 to Noon

Reference materials will be provided during the classes as aids for our practice, and a variety of guided meditations and other practical instruction and guidance will be offered.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

What to expect: Each of the 5 sessions will include a lecture by Gareth, a period such as a guided meditation to bring the teachings into life and practice, and a group discussion.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Food: After the session, any who wish to go out for lunch with Gareth can continue the conversation over our food.

Registration: Please register for the class, even if you cannot attend every session. This will help ensure the sufficiency of materials.

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

Mindful Moments Monthly Event - Hike (14 Nov 2026)

Sat, 14 Nov 2026 14:30:00 GMT

HIKING

Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 9:30AM to 1:00pm

Location - TBD

About the Hike

We are pleased to announce the hiking event, taking place on Saturday, Nov 14! We invite everyone on a hike at Chattahoochee River Rec Area, sharp from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event provides both visitors and sangha members with an exciting opportunity to meaningfully observe the tranquility found in nature. Seeking peace of mind in the wilderness dates back to the original practice of the Buddha and his disciples, so we hope this easy morning stroll will help participants connect more deeply with themselves and their walking companions.

We will pause for a brief period of meditation, followed by a break for a packed lunch, so please be sure to bring the following items:

A day pack for convenient storage
20 oz of water to maintain hydration
A personal packed lunch, and perhaps a small amount of food to share with others
Closed-toed shoes

The leader of this event, Clay Roper, has requested that all participants:

Begin hydrating the day before our hike to ensure the well-being of everyone involved
Please leave any pets at home for this hike, as downed trees from the recent hurricane may present additional hazards
Disclose any health concerns or limitations that may arise during the hike
Provide emergency contact information (to be completed on-site)

Bring a sandwich and water!

About the Mindful Moments Cultural Event Series

What to Expect

After gathering in the space by 9:45AM, we will start the hike sharp at 10AM. We will pause for a brief period of meditation, followed by a break for a packed lunch. Familiarity with meditation practices and Buddhist traditions is not required. Bring a friend!

While registration is not required, it helps the organizers immensely for planning purposes.

Lunch

Please bring a personal packed lunch, and perhaps a small amount of food to share with others.

Cost

There is no cost to attend this event.

Questions or Need More Information?

Please contact Natalie and Clay.

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (16 Nov 2026)

Tue, 17 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group, led by Katie Rhodes

Third Monday of the Month

7:00-8:30 PM on Zoom

Monthly Practice Group

For the next several months we will be exploring the Noble Eight Fold Path as a living, relational, and embodied path that meets us in our daily lives.

We will be using the book ‘A Whole Life Path: A Lay Buddhist’s Guide to Crafting a Dharma Infused Life by Gregory Kramer as reference. There is no need to read or study ahead of the sessions.

Experience with insight dialogue practice is not necessary. We are looking to develop a core group of sangha friends with a commitment towards study and practice together.

You can learn more about Insight Dialogue from the ID Community website https://insightdialogue.org/

She uses mindfulness-based cognitive approaches in her work as a psychotherapist. She has a doctorate in clinical social work.

Questions? Please email Katie Rhodes

What to expect

All are welcome, no previous experience with meditation or Insight Dialogue experience is required.

This practice group will meet on Zoom.

To attend the session online: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550.

Questions or to Sign up to Receive Emails about RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group

Please email Katie Rhodes

This Fleeting Life and the Rhythms of the Breath: A Retreat with Dhammadipa (20 Nov 2026)

Sat, 21 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Retreat with Dhammadipa

This Fleeting Life and the Rhythms of the Breath

Nov 20, 7-9 PM (Friday evening)

Nov 21, 9AM-5PM retreat (Saturday)

Nov 22 (Dharma talk as part of the service)

Description Sometimes we feel that life is so busy that it makes meditation impossible, our mind full of to do lists, regrets from the past, and plans for the future. Yet we have at our disposal one of the most powerful tools in the world and that is our attention. When focused on the breath, another tool that is at hand at all times, we can work with the movements of the mind to find steadiness and insight. Join us for this commuter retreat which will include periods of sitting meditation, walking meditation, and Dhamma talks by Dhammadīpā.

Teacher Bio Dhammadīpā, the founder of Dassanaya Buddhist Community, has been practicing Buddhism since 1987. She is a Dharma Transmitted Teacher in the Suzuki Roshi lineage of Soto Zen and was previously ordained in the Theravada tradition for

5 years. In addition to English, Dhammadīpā teaches in Spanish, an expression of her Latin heritage. She is an author whose work has appeared in the Buddhist publications “Lion’s Roar” and the “Buddhadharma” magazine. Dhammadīpā is the mother of a lovely adult daughter, and enjoys sewing and watercolor painting.

Learn more about her and her teachings at:

Location 3315 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Chamblee, GA

If you are attending by zoom you will be sent the link after registration.

Schedule

The retreat will begin at 7:00 on Friday evening and run till 9:00 that night. The main portion of the retreat is during the day on Saturday from 9 till 5, during which time Dhammadipa will offer a dhamma talk and opportunities for practice encounters. The retreat will continue in conjunction with the normal service on Sunday morning, and Dhammadipa will continue her dhamma presentations with the talk at 10:30 that morning. All are invited to join for a group lunch at a local restaurant after the service on Sunday.

Lunch If attending in person, please bring a box lunch for yourself. We will provide refrigeration space. There will be enough time to prepare lunch, if you are attending via Zoom and not at the Sangha.

Cost and Dana There is no cost to attend the retreat, but we ask attendees to practice generosity. If you would like to make a donation to Dhammadipa in advance (or at any time), you can do so at Dassanaya's website. You will also be invited to offer additional dana during the retreat.

Questions or Comments

Please contact: Gareth Young

Working with Mental Factors (05 Dec 2026)

Sat, 05 Dec 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Working with Mental Factors

First Saturday of the Month, from 9:30 to Noon

Reference materials will be provided during the classes as aids for our practice, and a variety of guided meditations and other practical instruction and guidance will be offered.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

What to expect: Each of the 5 sessions will include a lecture by Gareth, a period such as a guided meditation to bring the teachings into life and practice, and a group discussion.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Food: After the session, any who wish to go out for lunch with Gareth can continue the conversation over our food.

Registration: Please register for the class, even if you cannot attend every session. This will help ensure the sufficiency of materials.

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

Chanting with Gareth Young (12 Dec 2026)

Sat, 12 Dec 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Chanting with Gareth Young

Bi-Monthly on Saturdays, 2:00PM to 5:00PM

In Person

Note that these sessions are in person only. The dynamics of chanting and of sharing space together are important and this doesn't translate well to a hybrid or Zoom environment.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Cost There is no cost to attend this retreat. Donations to Red Clay Sangha are gratefully received.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd.

Questions or More Information? Please contactGareth Young by email.

A Day of Silence w/ Gareth Young (19 Dec 2026)

Sat, 19 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

A Day of Silence with Gareth Young

Saturday, December 19th, 2026, from 9:00 to 5:00

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Location: Red Clay Sangha, 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, and on Zoom

Questions or More Information?

Please contact Gareth Young

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (21 Dec 2026)

Tue, 22 Dec 2026 00:00:00 GMT

RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group, led by Katie Rhodes

Third Monday of the Month

7:00-8:30 PM on Zoom

Monthly Practice Group

For the next several months we will be exploring the Noble Eight Fold Path as a living, relational, and embodied path that meets us in our daily lives.

We will be using the book ‘A Whole Life Path: A Lay Buddhist’s Guide to Crafting a Dharma Infused Life by Gregory Kramer as reference. There is no need to read or study ahead of the sessions.

Experience with insight dialogue practice is not necessary. We are looking to develop a core group of sangha friends with a commitment towards study and practice together.

You can learn more about Insight Dialogue from the ID Community website https://insightdialogue.org/

She uses mindfulness-based cognitive approaches in her work as a psychotherapist. She has a doctorate in clinical social work.

Questions? Please email Katie Rhodes

What to expect

All are welcome, no previous experience with meditation or Insight Dialogue experience is required.

This practice group will meet on Zoom.

To attend the session online: Click here to join. Alternatively go to https://zoom.us/, click the links to enter a meeting, and enter meeting ID 971-373-141 and password 879550.

Questions or to Sign up to Receive Emails about RCS Insight Dialogue Practice Group

Please email Katie Rhodes

Movie Night - How to Cook Your Life (26 Dec 2026)

Sat, 26 Dec 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Mindful Moments

Movie: How to Cook Your Life (2007)

Saturday, December 26, 2026, 4:00pm

In Person at the Sangha

We’re delighted to announce the next Mindful Moments event. This time, we will be watching the documentary How to Cook Your Life. As always, this event is open to the general public, and we warmly encourage you to invite friends and community members to join us. The viewing will take place on Saturday, December 26, 2026, at 4:00 pm. Light snacks and tea will be provided for the benefit of all beings.

About the Film

How to Cook Your Life features Zen master Edward Espe Brown, renowned teacher, philosopher, and author of the famous Tassajara cookbooks. Filmed in Germany, the documentary invites viewers to discover how cooking, eating, and daily activities can become profound practices of mindfulness. Under Brown’s guidance, the kitchen becomes a place of care, attention, and compassion—both for oneself and for others. Through his wisdom, humor, and practical instruction, the film illuminates the transformative power of presence in ordinary moments. How to Cook Your Life is an inspiring reminder that mindfulness is not separate from life; it is cultivated in every thoughtful gesture, every prepared meal, and every shared experience.

About the Mindful Moments Cultural Event Series

What to Expect

While registration is not required, it helps the organizers immensely for space and snack planning purposes.

Cost There is no cost to attend this event.

Location At Red Clay Sangha's physical space at 3315 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Chamblee, GA 30341

Questions or Need More Information?

Please contact Natalie and Clay.

Letting Go and Finding Joy: A Residential Retreat with Gareth Young (17 Mar 2027)

Wed, 17 Mar 2027 22:00:00 GMT

Letting Go and Finding Joy:
A Residential Retreat with Gareth Young

Wednesday March 17, 2027 - Sunday March 21, 2027

Koosa Mountain Lodge, GA

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often become so engrossed in our own busyness that we overlook the peace, joy, compassion, and wisdom that are present in each moment. This five-day silent meditation retreat offers you the chance to step away from the chaos, reconnect with your inner self, and nurture the profound peace that only extended practice can provide. It serves as an opportunity to release the past, let go of concerns about the future, and simply rest in the present moment. This retreat creates a framework for joy to flourish and for integrating it into our daily lives.

While a single day of retreat can offer a taste of stillness, a multi-day retreat allows that stillness to settle in—to move beyond surface calm into a place of profound insight and renewal. With each passing day, as distractions fade, clarity emerges. You’ll notice how stress arises and dissipates, how habitual patterns loosen their grip, and how joy and ease naturally take their place.

Guided by Gareth, we will work with the mindfulness and meditation practices both from the Pali canon, and from the Chan and Zen Buddhist traditions, which all work to help us cultivate stillness of mind and peaceful engagement in the fullness of our lives.

With comfortable accommodation, nourishing vegetarian meals, and a community of fellow practitioners, you’ll find the perfect environment to settle into stillness. Whether you're experienced in meditation or new to multi-day retreats, this extended period of silence will help you cultivate a steadier mind and a more open heart—both on and off the cushion.

If you are longing for a true reset, the kind that lingers long after you return home, this retreat is for you.

Gareth's teaching authorization is in the Thai Forest lineage of Ajahn Chah, Jack Kornfield and Lisa Ernst.

Location , Koosa Mountain Lodge, Dahlonega, less than 2 hours north of Atlanta. Visit the Koosa Mountain Lodge Website

Schedule and Arrival Registration will be from 4:00 to 6:00 on Wed. March 17th, 2027. Please plan to arrive during this window. Instruction on work duties and other retreat matters will be provided after dinner, and it is enormously helpful if all are present for this segment of the day. The retreat begins with dinner at 6:00 pm on the Wednesday evening and finishes up at lunchtime on Sunday the 21st. A full schedule will be available prior to the retreat's start date.

Accommodation Rooms are comfortable and spacious with adequate bathroom facilities. The rooms are generally shared, but at far less than their maximum capacity. We do our best to accommodate the needs and wishes of attendees, but are generally unable to provide private sleeping. Camping is an option.

Meals Vegetarian meals will be provided. Vegan, dairy and gluten-free options will be available for every meal; snacks will also be available. Please mention any dietary restrictions on the registration form.

Cost We work hard to keep our fees to a minimum, but cannot avoid significant out-of-pocket costs for the space and food for a residential retreat. The full cost for the retreat is $360. There is an option during registration to donate to a scholarship fund, or to draw from this scholarship fund to reduce your cost (See the section on "Financial Assistance" below.)

COVID: No specific protocols or requirements at this time, but we may follow up if circumstances change

Payment and Refund and Cancellation Policies

Payment Payment in full is preferred at time of registration. However, it is permissible to pay half at time of registration and the rest thirty days prior to the start of the retreat. Should RCS need to cancel a retreat for any reason (unlikely), all payments would be refunded in full.

Refund policy for cancellations: If you register and cancel 30 days or more prior to the retreat start date, you will receive a full refund. Cancellation up to 15 days prior to the start date will receive a 50% refund. No refunds are available after that date.

If you have registered for the retreat and need to cancel, please contact the retreat administrator asap.

Financial Assistance One of Red Clay's goals is for every one to be able to attend regardless of ability to pay. To achieve this goal, a scholarship fund has been accumulated from donations from previous retreats and is available to help pay for those who need financial assistance. If you need financial assistance for this retreat, please contact the retreat administrator.

Testimonials from past attendees

- Amit (attended retreat in 2024)

"You might not expect that sitting, walking, and eating in complete silence alongside others for nearly five days could foster such a strong sense of community, but I discovered a renewed connection with everyone around me once the noise of everyday life was left behind.

The clear mountain air and serene setting created the perfect environment to unplug from the constant demands of modern technology. I found it surprisingly easy to set aside my phone and refrain from using it for nearly a week.

I am happy for future opportunities to participate in more retreats and hope to gain further insights from peacefully coexisting within such an accommodating community."

- Clay (attended retreat in 2024)

Questions or More Information? Please contact Gareth Young .

Red Clay Sangha upcoming events

Movie Night - Tashi and the Monk (11 Jul 2026)

One Day Retreat w/ Gareth Young (18 Jul 2026)

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (20 Jul 2026)

Women's Circle (26 Jul 2026)

Women's Circle

on Zoom, every 4th Sunday from 2PM to 3:30PM

Working with Mental Factors (01 Aug 2026)

Chanting with Gareth Young (01 Aug 2026)

A Day of Silence w/ Gareth Young (15 Aug 2026)

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (17 Aug 2026)

Mindful Moments - GameDay (22 Aug 2026)

Women's Circle (23 Aug 2026)

Women's Circle

on Zoom, every 4th Sunday from 2PM to 3:30PM

Practicing with Poetry: with Clay Roper (29 Aug 2026)

Practicing with Poetry

An experiential approach to using verse within a Buddhist context

Saturday August 29th In person at Red Clay Sangha

Working with Mental Factors (05 Sep 2026)

Community Service Project (05 Sep 2026)

Movie Night - I Origins (12 Sep 2026)

Five-Day Residential Retreat with Gareth Young (16 Sep 2026)

Five-Day Residential Retreat with Gareth Young

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (18 Sep 2026)

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (21 Sep 2026)

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (25 Sep 2026)

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Resilience, Navigating a Troubled World (26 Sep 2026)

Resilience, Navigating a Troubled World

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (02 Oct 2026)

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Working with Mental Factors (03 Oct 2026)

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (09 Oct 2026)

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Chanting with Gareth Young (10 Oct 2026)

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (16 Oct 2026)

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

One Day Retreat w/ Gareth Young (17 Oct 2026)

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (19 Oct 2026)

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (23 Oct 2026)

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Movie Night - The Fountain (24 Oct 2026)

Interfaith Event - Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism (30 Oct 2026)

Sacred Friends Explore Hinduism

Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m on ZOOM

Sept. 15 – Nov. 3

Working with Mental Factors (07 Nov 2026)

Mindful Moments Monthly Event - Hike (14 Nov 2026)

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (16 Nov 2026)

This Fleeting Life and the Rhythms of the Breath: A Retreat with Dhammadipa (20 Nov 2026)

Working with Mental Factors (05 Dec 2026)

Chanting with Gareth Young (12 Dec 2026)

A Day of Silence w/ Gareth Young (19 Dec 2026)

RCS Insight Dialog Practice Group (21 Dec 2026)

Movie Night - How to Cook Your Life (26 Dec 2026)

Letting Go and Finding Joy: A Residential Retreat with Gareth Young (17 Mar 2027)

Letting Go and Finding Joy: A Residential Retreat with Gareth Young

Saturday August 29th
In person at Red Clay Sangha

Letting Go and Finding Joy:
A Residential Retreat with Gareth Young