NJ Buddhist Monks Will Host International Peace Convention

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Are you seeking inner peace amid the strife of the modern world? A pair of nonprofits from New Jersey and Australia are teaming up to hold an International Peace Convention at a Buddhist monastery in Essex County this summer – and admission is free.

The Metta Convention USA will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19 outside on the grounds of Empty Cloud Monastery, which is located at 29 Ridgeway Avenue in West Orange.

The goal? To “promote the practice of mindfulness and compassion for more peace and harmony,” organizers said.

The public is invited to attend the non-sectarian event, including non-Buddhists. There is no cost to attend. Visitors are welcome to bring their own lunches with a picnic basket and sitting cushions. Learn more here.

Here’s what to expect, organizers said:

“The program is full of time-relevant panel discussions, individual talks, and breakout groups featuring a plethora of renowned Buddhist speakers from around the world. The main panels and talks will also be hosted online for those unable to attend in person.”

The Metta Convention USA is a collaboration between two nonprofits: Buddhist Insights Meditation Inc. of New Jersey, USA, and Metta Centre Inc. of Sydney, Australia. Both organizations specialize in connecting people with monastics and offering free access to Buddhist teachings.

Empty Cloud Monastery moved to their home in West Orange in 2020. The monastery previously offered free meditation retreats at the Rockaway Summer House in New York City.

• Related: Dharma In West Orange: Buddhist Retreat Center Moves To Town

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