In March 2023, BCBS hosted a retreat for Dharma teachers focused on the intersection of climate change and Buddhist practice, generously funded by the BESS Family Foundation. BESS supports teachers, facilitators, and dharma leaders in exploring how Buddhist traditions can address today's interconnected challenges and foster new forms of thought and practice. (David Loy, one of the participants, shared his reflections on the retreat in a Tricycle article here). BESS will sponsor similar … [Read more...]
Archives for April 2024
BCBS Meal Inspirations
At BCBS, our commitment to nourishing the spirit extends beyond study and practice to the food we serve. Our chefs approach meal preparation with mindfulness and creativity, constantly seeking new flavors and recipes to delight our guests. But how do they find and create these culinary delights? From time to time, retreatants ask our talented chefs where we get our recipes. There is no simple answer because many chefs have contributed recipes over the decades. In recent years, our chefs … [Read more...]
Embracing Tradition: The BCBS Spirit House
"My heart has another home in Thailand,” says BCBS Board Member Kevin Quigley. As a Peace Corps Volunteer in Thailand, Kevin learned from Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, Ajahn Chah, and others in the forest monk tradition – which is where he first discovered spirit houses. While living in Thailand again about a decade ago, Kevin was fortunate to acquire a spirit house, which he initially brought back to Marlboro College, where he served as President at the time. When Marlboro College merged with Emerson … [Read more...]
Made with Metta: Tempeh Tikka Masala
Tempeh Tikka Masala is a newer addition to the BCBS menu that has quickly become a crowd-pleaser. This delicious vegan meal will undoubtedly be a hit with your friends and family! Tempeh Tikka Masala Servings: 6 Download Recipe PDF 1 1/3 pounds Tempeh, cubed and steamed 3/4 pound Onion, diced 1/2 tablespoon Garlic, minced 1/2 tablespoon Ginger, minced 1 tablespoon Garam Masala 1 tablespoon Cumin 1/2 tablespoon Turmeric 1/2 tablespoon Coriander, ground 1/2 … [Read more...]
Welcome Lynn Whittemore to the Board of Directors
Lynn Whittemore was first introduced to Buddhism in 1978 during a semester abroad in Nepal, though her study, practice, and love of the Dharma really took root in a January term Vipassana Meditation course at Hampshire College. After an extensive career in print design and publishing, Lynn served as the Executive Director of the Cambridge Insight Meditation Center (CIMC) from 2014 to 2023. She is currently CIMC’s Curriculum Director. For decades, Lynn has studied and practiced at BCBS, … [Read more...]
Welcome Betty Burkes to the Board of Directors
Betty Burkes has been an educator/activist for five decades. She has been a Montessori teacher, a peace educator with the United Nations, and an educational consultant with Rethinkers in New Orleans. Her activism has been expressed internationally and nationally with the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and as a columnist at the Cape Cod Times. Betty began her meditation practice over 40 years ago with Phiroz Mehta at the Buddhist Society in London, and with … [Read more...]