Dhammadharini Monastery
Women upholding the Dhamma
Here aspirants can explore monastic life, learn, train & ordain. Here lay friends of the Sangha can visit or stay for periods of immersion, sanctuary & service. Our monastery is located in Penngrove, Sonoma County, CA, a small community near Sonoma State University. It is easily accessible by car and public transportation.
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Thanks to the Dhammadharini Support Foundation our Bhikkhuni Sangha can put down deep roots in this land. The monastery will function as a space of refuge, sanctuary & practice for those inspired to fully live the monastic path. As sufficient funds are raised, our goal is to transform the property into a true monastery including lodgings, meditation garden area and spaces for gathering.
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Click here to support our efforts.
Daily Schedule
Wake up until 5:00 am | Silent meditation on your own | Meditation Hall and personal rooms |
5:00 am | Morning Puja Meditation and Devotional and Sutta Chanting | Meditation Hall |
6:15 am | Silent Mindful Work Period for sweeping, tidying and preparing breakfast | Throughout the monastery Silent Period until after breakfast |
7:00 am | Breakfast; Post-meal cleanup | Community Hall |
8:00 am | Morning Meeting for brief Dhamma reflection, work assignments, logistics. | Community Hall |
9:00 am | Morning work period | Throughout the monastery |
11:00 am | Main Meal Offering; post-meal cleanup | Meditation Hall |
1:00 - 7:00 pm | Flexible Time for personal care, Dhamma study and practice, and meetings. OK to continue practical work if one is able to balance practical work and Dhamma activities. | Throughout the monastery |
6:00 - 7:00 pm | Evening Tea & quiet informal conversation; wind up community meetings or projects to prepare for evening program. | Community Hall |
7:00 - 8:00 pm | Evening Puja Devotional and Sutta chanting and communal meditation | Meditation Hall |
8:00 until sleep | Silent Time for personal practice | Meditation Hall and personal rooms |
Monday and Tuesday are quieter days with fewer scheduled activities and more time for silent practice. Tuesday evening, one of the Bhikkhuni teachers offers a Dhamma talk for the evening program. Even during the busy periods, we aim for a calm and quiet atmosphere.
