About

The Rains Retreat

The monks are in retreat here each year from July through late October or early November at Pennsylvania Meditation Center, during which time they do not travel away from the center for more than a few days.

Robe Offering

We celebrate the monks having completed the Rains Retreat with a special ceremony, based on the tradition that the Buddha initiated about 2,600 years ago.  A special robe is offered to one monk who made great efforts in Dharma practice during the rains retreat.  A group of members of our congregation generously has offered to sponsor the ceremony, including the special robe, and the food and other necessities for the monks during the rains retreat.
All are welcome to this free, all-day event from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and delicious lunch with many Asian delicacies!

Weekend Dharma Programs

Our Chief Monk, Venerable Chandrawansa, or "Bhante," is available at the temple to speak to individuals by telephone, or in person by appointment only, during the Coronavirus pandemic.  

You may contact him at 814 735-4458 or 814 954-9011.

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Please join us for group meditation and Dharma discussions by Zoom (see below).

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After the crisis, when we reopen again with the regular programs, Bhante presents a Dharma teaching every Saturday at 5:30 p.m. or he leads meditation and Sutta discussion weekend retreats at the temple (except when he is on travel).

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All programs are free of charge.  Donations are welcome.

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Group Meditation & Dharma Discussion

We warmly welcome you to join us for FREE guided meditation and Dharma Discussions:

BY ZOOM during the Coronavirus crisis (until further notice):

Tuesdays and Thursdays

from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

(Meditation from 6:00 to 6:30

Dharma discussion 6:30 to 7:30)

Please download the Zoom app and call or text 814 954-9011 for the meeting ID number. 

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After the Coronavirus crisis, we resume:

Tuesdays 7:00-9:00 pm at the Center.

Thursdays 6:00-7:00 pm at McConnellsburg Library, downstairs.

Fridays 6:30-7:30 pm at Coyle Free Library in Chambersburg

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Bhante guides us in meditation, helping us de-stress, improve mood and concentration, and cope better with difficulties.  Suitable for all, whether you are new to meditation or experienced.

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Special Services and Dharma For Kids

The monks are available to provide special services upon request, such as Dharma or meditation programs at your home or other venue, Buddhist blessing services for the ill or for special occasions, and housewarming blessings.

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For Dharma stories and lessons for kids, please visit our sister website: DharmaKids.org

"Wisdom springs from meditation; without meditation wisdom wanes.  Having known these two paths of progress and decline, let a person so conduct himself that his wisdom may increase."

-The Buddha
(photo of meditation hut and walking path at Pennsylvania Meditation Center)

Contact Pennsylvania Meditation Center

1999 S Valley Rd, Crystal Spring, PA 15536, USA

(814) 735-4458, (814) 954-9011

For online resources for kids, please visit