Roots and Refuge: An Asian American Buddhist Writing Retreat

How do our roots shape us as Asian Americans in connection to Buddhism? Where can we find refuge in the practice of putting pen to paper? As writers shaped by lineages of Buddhist poetry, exegesis, fiction, journalism, and other genres, how can we share what we have to offer to the present and future of Buddhism in the United States?

This experimental, participatory gathering brings together Asian American Buddhists writers—broadly defined—for a program to support and deepen our spiritual and creative practice. Over the course of our five days together, we will participate in peer-led ritual and meditation, write on our own and in peer-organized groups, and dialogue as a community. 

Anyone of Asian heritage (including Central, East, South, Southeast, and West Asian heritage) who is currently working on a writing project related to Buddhism is warmly invited to apply. You do not need to be a published author to apply, and writers of all genres are welcome. 

Program History: Inaugurated in 2023 with a generous grant from the Frederick P. Lenz Foundation for American Buddhism, Roots & Refuge has received funding support from the Hemera Foundation as well as numerous R&R alumni. To learn more about the retreat, read Ryan Lee Wong’s “Home-Leaving and Refuge at the First Asian American Buddhist Writing Retreat” and Sophia Mao’s “Stories to Rest Into.” 

Program Format: This program, as in the past, consists of a mix of different activities, co-led by participants, including: silent writing, chanting, meditation, altar building, large group discussions, small peer-led group discussions, reading of work, and relational practices. 

Noble Silence:

Noble silence will be observed following each evening session through breakfast the following morning.

Experience Level:

Suitable for beginning and experienced practitioners.

Cancellation Policy:

We understand that personal circumstances may require you to cancel your registration. In these cases, please contact us right away. If you cancel more than eight weeks before the program starts, you are eligible for a full refund minus a $50 administrative fee. If you cancel between three and eight weeks before the program starts, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the deposit. Registration fees are nonrefundable less than three weeks before the program starts.

Schedule:

Please note that the daily schedule will vary (sometimes significantly) from program to program. Below please find a typical schedule, keeping in mind that it will not directly reflect every program.

Opening Day

2:00 – 5:45 pm Check-in

4:30 pm BCBS Campus Tour (optional)

5:50 – 6:30 pm Kitchen Orientation and Dinner

7:30 – 9:00 pm Opening Session

Middle Day(s)

6:30 am Wake-up Bell

7:00 – 7:30 am Group Sitting Practice

7:30 – 8:00 am Breakfast

8:00 – 9:00 am Work Practice or Rest

9:00 am – noon Morning Session

12:00 – 2:30 pm Lunch

12:30 – 2:00 pm Work Practice or Rest

2:00 – 5:00 pm Afternoon Session

5:00 – 5:30 pm Dinner

5:30 – 7:00 pm Work Practice or Rest

7:00 – 9:00 pm Evening Session

Closing Day

6:30 am Wake-up Bell

7:00 – 7:30 am Group Sitting Practice

7:30 – 8:00 am Breakfast

8:00 – 9:00 am Work Practice or Rest

9:00 am – noon Closing Session

12:00 – 12:30 pm Lunch (optional)

Application:

This program will be offered by application, and spaces are limited. Roots and Refuge ALUMNI who apply by February 1, 2026 will receive priority. On February 1, 2026, applications will be open to the public. Applications will close on April 1st, 2026 at 11:59 PM US Eastern time.