Programs

with The Rev. Brendan Ellis Williams, CMR (Ngakpa Pälden Dorje)

Learn the simple, sacred ritual art of making tsa-tsas—molded clay icons of divine or enlightened beings—using traditional Tibetan tools and techniques, and offer your completed and consecrated tsa-tsas on the Land at The Bishop’s Ranch (and elsewhere if you wish) for the blessing of all sentient beings.

Participants will be guided in making their own tsa-tsas from locally harvested clay, crafting traditional images of both Indo-Tibetan and Western origin, focused especially on the divine feminine. Images will include several forms of Tārā, the Holy Mother María, Śakyamuni Buddha, and icons to honor the ancestors. Throughout and following the making of the sacred images, each one will be imbued with healing intention, blessing, and prayer. Father Brendan (Ngakpa-la) will then consecrate all the completed tsa-tsas using an ancient Tibetan ceremony. He will also give teachings throughout on Tārā and María as deified or enlightened beings and vessels of perfect compassion, offering some ancient prayers and rituals related to these important divine mother figures.

In conclusion, participants will be led on a hike around the beautiful Bishop’s Ranch to distribute tsa-tsas as they wish at various spots on the Land. Traditionally, it is said that all beings who encounter consecrated tsa-tsas will receive some of their blessing; and, as our sacred images naturally return over time to the Earth from which they were made, they will take our prayers and blessings with them back into the living landscape.

Particularly in a time of great upheaval, confusion, and polarization like the era in which we presently find ourselves, one of the most healing things we can do is generate real connection, loving-kindness, and compassion for other beings. Our intention for this day-long workshop will be to put healing and blessing into the world, in partnership with the Land, the ancestors, and the enlightened beings with which we will be working.

Make time for those unfinished projects or new endeavors at a four-night quilt retreat. With all meals provided and no chores in sight, beginning through advanced quilters can truly focus on their passion. You’ll have time to be with old friends and the opportunity to make new ones while working on your own projects or sharing your creativity with other participants. This retreat is intended to give you the time you need for yourself without formal instruction or sales pitches.