Discover the Heart of Buddhist Practice in Connecticut
Twice a Month on Sundays*
9 – 10:45 a.m.
343 Washington Terrace, Middletown, Connecticut
Since 2001, our community has explored the teachings and practices of Buddhism—not just as a philosophy, but as a way of life and a path to deep spiritual transformation —all within a nurturing group setting.
Guided by Rev. G.R. Lewis (Senpai), one of Connecticut’s most respected Buddhist teachers, we offer a unique blend of Thien (Zen) Buddhism, in a style similar to Thich Nhat Hanh, with heartfelt Shin Buddhist teachings.
Why Attend a Meditation & Talk Meeting?
Our meetings are more than just gatherings—they are enriching experiences where you can connect with the Buddha Dharma (Buddhist teachings) in a way that feels accessible, practical, and inspiring – overlooking the beautiful Shôyôan Teien Zen garden. Each session includes:
- Silent Sitting Meditation: Find stillness and clarity as you turn inward.
- Sacred Chants: Experience the soothing power of ancient Buddhist liturgy.
- Insightful Talks & Discussions: Explore meaningful and practical topics in a supportive setting.
- Warm Community: Meet and share with other fellow travelers on the path.
Open to the general public, we welcome first-time participants, seasoned practitioners, and anyone in between—whether Buddhist or simply curious about the path.
A Practice for Everyone
Our Meditation & Talk Sundays have been the cornerstone of our community for over two decades. Whether you are seeking an introduction to Buddhism or are a seasoned practitioner looking for deeper engagement, these gatherings provide the perfect environment to explore timeless wisdom. Held on select Sunday mornings at the Mansfield Freeman Center for East Asian Studies, they offer a supportive space for everyone. The straightforward format ensures that anyone can participate comfortably, leaving each session with fresh insights and a deeper connection to Great Compassion.
Blending Tradition with Contemporary Relevance
What sets our Sunday morning gatherings apart is our ability to make ancient teachings relevant to modern life. Alongside traditional chants and quiet sittiing meditation, we explore Buddhism through the lens of American culture, psychology, evolutionary science, and modern physics. We also embrace the wisdom of other Buddhist schools and integrate perspectives from Western philosophy, making our approach uniquely inclusive and relatable.
A Space for Connection and Renewal
Each meeting is an opportunity to pause, reconnect, and renew your spirit within a community that values openness, compassion, and shared learning. Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding, find inner peace, or simply explore, our gatherings offer something meaningful for everyone.
To learn more, visit our What Makes Meditation & Talk Meetings a Must-Experience and FAQ: Sunday Meetings pages and take the first step on this transformative path.
I’ve never meditated before? I don’t know anything about Buddhism?
No problem. Visit the links below to get an idea on how to practice sitting meditation.
You don’t need to know anything about Buddhism to participate. Don’t be deterred. Our easy Practice & Talk format is designed to help you understand and appreciate the practice and subject matter being discussed.
Meditation by Ven. S. Dhammika
How to Practice Buddhist Meditation (with photos) by WikiHow
Suggested donation of $10 to $15 per person to help cover the costs: the space at Wesleyan, extensive outreach, internet service, Meetup and other standard operating costs. Thank you for your financial support.
Code of Conduct: In order to create a positive learning and practice environment at the Buddhist Faith Fellowship of Connecticut (BFF of CT), participants are expected to engage in kind, courteous, and respectful actions and speech. Therefore, participants agree to abstain from:
- Engaging in unlawful actions (which will be reported to the police)
- Physical, verbal, and emotional abuse or harassment
- Possessing, using, or being under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or any illegal substances
- Sexual harassment in any form
- Using harmful, harsh, political, racist, and demeaning language
- Acting or speaking divisively to disrupt the BFF of CT community
- Damaging any physical object or the premise of the center
Participants understand and agree to abide by the Buddhist Faith Fellowship’s Code of Conduct, refraining from any disruptive behavior that inhibits the learning and practice of other participants in any course, workshop, retreat, program, or community activity. Participants acknowledge that failure to adhere to this code of conduct will result in being asked to leave the premises, temporarily or permanently, without a refund of any fees or donations for the course, workshop, retreat, or program.
*Mostly twice a month on Sundays; except during winter and summer recess, and the availability of our teacher, Rev. G.R. Lewis M.A.
