Summit Highlights
Gratitude for Connection
We were deeply grateful for the opportunity to gather in person and strengthen relationships across the BRN community—especially the meaningful connections made with the East Coast sangha. Throughout the weekend, shared practice, meals, conversations, and community time helped us deepen support, build friendships, and renew our sense of collective purpose in recovery.
The Summit brought together BRN Academy teachers and community leaders for a blend of conference-style sessions and retreat-style practice. The program included teachings, panels, Q&A, meditation sits, and informal time for connection and peer support.
We also offered multiple “sampler” recovery meetings, representing different pathways and communities, including: Recovery Dharma, 12 Step, ELSA Recovery, BIPOC, 8-Step, Noble Steps, Sit & Share, and LGBTQ.
Scenic Location
The 2024 Buddhist Recovery Summit took place at Fairview Lake YMCA (fairviewlakeymca.org) in Stillwater, New Jersey, a peaceful retreat setting on a mile-long lake near the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The natural environment supported both reflection and connection, offering a spacious and grounding container for meditation, community gatherings, shared meals, and time outdoors.
Summary of Each Day
Thursday, Oct 10 — Arrival + connection
Registration and check-in, dinner, and an evening of informal networking and peer support.
Friday, Oct 11 — Opening + keynotes + community
Morning sit, welcome/housekeeping, board Q&A, and a gratitude talk + meditation (Walt Opie). Teaching on process addiction and boundaries, plus Safer Sangha community talks and affinity group discussions hosted by Vimalasara. Keynote with Kevin Griffin, ELSA Recovery talk + Q&A, sampler meetings, then campfire and evening discussions.
Saturday, Oct 12 — Practice + panels + creativity
Morning sit, self-compassion workshop, and Vimalasara talk: “Beyond Recovery.” Brownbag Recovery App presentation, panel on starting and sustaining Buddhist recovery meetings, personal story share, sampler meetings. Evening Open Mic Night (music, poetry, humor, and more).
Sunday, Oct 13 — Closing + looking ahead
Morning sit, Vince Cullen talk on “Forgiveness,” then a session on the future of BRN (new website, podcasts, offerings), followed by dana and an invitation to get involved. Cleanup (samu) and departure.