Join Matthew Brensilver for a one-day lovingkindness practice in Berkeley on August 22, 2026. Check-in runs from 9:45 am PT to 10:00 am PT on Saturday, and the day concludes at 4:00 pm PT.
The Buddha’s teaching reminds us that hatred is not ended by hatred, but by non-hatred. In that spirit, this daylong retreat explores why love is not only a response to the challenges of our time, but the way forward. Fear, self-absorption, and constant comparison can build countless barriers; lovingkindness has the power to soften and dissolve them. Together, we will look at the expansive friendliness of mettā and how it serves both as the path of meditation practice and its natural fruit.
The program includes guided and silent sitting meditation, walking meditation, a dharma talk, and time for questions with the teacher. All are welcome.
Location: 1924 Cedar St., Berkeley, CA, Fellowship Hall at Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists
A $30 deposit will only be charged if you are accepted to the retreat, do not attend, and do not cancel before the cancellation deadline.
Lunch: Please bring your own lunch, or choose from several restaurants located two blocks away.
Sitting Gear: Chairs will be available at the venue. If you prefer to sit on the floor, or need additional support to sit in a chair, please bring your own sitting gear.
Accessibility & Scent-Free Space: The rented space includes a wheelchair-accessible ramp. To support participants with chemical sensitivities and health needs, we kindly ask that you arrive scent-free and avoid perfumes, colognes, essential oils, and scented personal care products. Thank you for your care and consideration.
IRC is committed to offering an inclusive and accessible meditation space. For offsite retreats, venues are rented externally, so some accessibility features may be beyond our control. We appreciate your understanding. If you have access needs or questions, please reach out in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Note: There is no lottery for this daylong retreat. Please disregard any automated emails mentioning lotteries.
Matthew Brensilver
Price
$30.00
Sat, Aug 22