Ser Chö Ösel Ling 25th Anniversary Gathering
September 26, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
This year marks a remarkable milestone: 25 years of SCOL and 50 years of KCC. To honor this shared journey, we’ll gather on the retreat land to celebrate all that has unfolded so far and to look ahead with enthusiasm to the retreats and possibilities yet to come.
This gathering will bring together friends, neighbors, and long‑time supporters of the retreat center, many of whom played key roles in its founding, maintenance, and growth. The celebration will include a vegetarian lunch offered by SCOL, opportunities to explore the land, interest tables, a history presentation, information about the dharma and Buddhist retreat, nature walks, and activities for children.
A Brief History of SCOL
In 2001, KCC purchased the land which previously served as a horse ranch and lies on the ancestral lands of the Rock Creek Band of the Klickitat people. At that time, the 240 acres held a modest two‑bedroom house, a large barn, corral fencing beside a heart‑shaped meadow, a steady creek, and a recovering forest of pine, oak, and fir. Since then, development of a long‑term retreat center has continued, including two cloistered retreat wings and several staff buildings.
Over the years, SCOL has hosted a one‑year retreat, a three‑year retreat, and many shorter retreats and gatherings. Each year we offer guided retreats, opportunities for personal practice, and themed weekends and workshops. All the while, SCOL remains dedicated to nurturing and revitalizing the land so it may support the flora, fauna, and all who visit.
To learn more about the history of SCOL, click here.
Staying for the Weekend
Sangha members are invited to stay Friday night, Saturday night, or both. The main activities will be held between 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM on Saturday. We currently have capacity to host 35 people in cabins. Single cabins will not be available for this event, only ones with double occupancy. Ample camping spaces will also be available.
There is no cost to stay; however, we warmly encourage you to donate or become a sustaining supporter to help ensure dharma teachings remain available for many years to come! We are looking for volunteers for all aspects of this event. If you would like to volunteer to help, please select the volunteer option on the registration form.
Because parking is limited, we ask participants to carpool whenever possible. A carpool coordination system has been set up, and you will receive an email with details after registering.
Please register by September 11, even if you’re only attending on Saturday, and include the number of people in your group. Even if you do not plan to stay overnight, we need you to register if you intend to join us for the celebration. As lunch will be provided, accurate numbers are essential for planning. You will receive additional information upon registration.
