Vedanta Society of Northern California
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Convent and Monastery

Vedanta Retreat, Olema, Marin County, California

Vedanta Retreat, Olema, Marin County

A convent and monastery are maintained by the Society, giving an opportunity to qualified young women and men to devote themselves exclusively to spiritual life following the Ramakrishna Order’s motto: “For one’s own enlightenment and for the good of the world.”

In pursuit of this ideal, monastic life includes a variety of spiritual practices, such as meditation, worship, and scriptural study. Emphasis is given to serving God in others through various activities at the temples and the Olema retreat, as well as in one’s own monastic group. For those interested in leading a dedicated spiritual life in a community, the monastic path is meaningful and fulfilling.

Special Events

Shanti Ashrama Pilgrimage: Saturday, April 28

April 1, 2018 / Temple / Events

This year the pilgrimage will be held on Saturday, April 28. The subject for discussion will be: “Swami Vivekananda in America.” Several swamis will participate and our special guest speaker will be Swami Nishpapananda of the Vedanta Society of St. Louis. All are welcome.

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Memorial Day Program, May 28, 2018

March 30, 2018 / Temple / Events

“The Interfaith Movement” – join us for a day of talks, music, Q & A, and meditation.

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Monthly Bulletin

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Download the April Bulletin

If you’d like to receive the monthly bulletin by regular mail, please inform us at: [email protected].

Monthly Reading

Letter: “We Think We Are the Doers”

April 8, 2018 / Temple / Monthly Reading

 Kankhal 10 September 1914   Dear X, . . . I am glad to know that you have learned many new ideas about karma yoga from my previous letter [27 July 1914]. It does not matter whether your actions are with desire or without desire, the main thing is: “Whatever you do, whatever you eat, […]

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Timeless Wisdom from a Hasidic Master

March 1, 2018 / Temple / Monthly Reading

Where there is not truth there is no grace. While praying, listen to the words very carefully. When your heart is attentive, your entire being enters your prayer without your having to force it. Grant me the ability to be alone. May it be my custom to go outdoors each day among the trees and […]

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You Are Sure to Attain God

February 25, 2018 / Temple / Monthly Reading

Master: “The important thing is somehow to cultivate devotion to God and love for Him. What is the use of knowing many things? It is enough to cultivate love for God by following any of the paths. When you have this love, you are sure to attain God. Afterwards, if it is necessary God will […]

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Vedanta Society of Northern California

2323 Vallejo Street
San Francisco, CA 94123

415-922-2323
415-922-1476 (fax)
[email protected]

MAP

About Vedanta

  • A Synopsis
  • Sri Ramakrishna
  • Sri Sarada Devi
  • Swami Vivekananda
  • Ramakrishna Order
  • Suggested Reading

Vedanta Society

  • About the Society
  • History
  • New Temple
  • Old Temple
  • Retreat
  • Bookshop
  • Convent & Monastery

Resources

  • Lecture Audio
  • Class Audio
  • Retreat Audio
  • Special Events Audio
  • Videos
    • Sunday Lectures
    • Special Lectures and Programs
    • Class Videos
  • Photo Galleries
  • USA Centers
  • Links
  • Monthly Reading

Activities

  • Services & Events
  • Signup for Monthly Bulletin
  • Contact Us
  • To Donate
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