The Sangha House Compassion Gathering
About this Event
Yes, we are holding a free compassion event here At Sangha House.
Merida McCarthy, the Programme Coordinator for the Charter for Compassion is visiting and will be working with us to deliver this gorgeous weekend.
We have plenty of space for the afternoon, but if you want to join in with the activities in the morning, do call us to book your place. 01823 428156
Here's the agenda
🌿 SATURDAY — Compassion Begins Here
Morning Programme.
1. Pilates with Emily. 9.30am – 10.30am
We invite you to join members of our community for a relaxing Pilates session
2. Meditation and Tai Chi with Andy. 10.30am till 12.00am
Starting with a nice meditation and then moving into the gentle flowing, mindful practice of Tai Chi
Afternoon Programme at The Sangha House
1. The Bubble of Self 12.30pm till 1.30pm
A playful, story-rich exploration of how we build our sense of “me” and how that bubble can sometimes harden, wobble, or bump into others. Andy guides participants through a gentle meditation on softening the edges of the bubble, allowing more ease, connection, and spaciousness into everyday life.
2. The Close Enemies of Compassion 1.45pm till 2.45pm
Compassion has imposters — pity, overwhelm, and sentimentalism — and they often sneak in unnoticed. In this session, Andy unpacks these “close enemies” with humour and clarity, offering real-life examples from community work and radio conversations. Participants reflect in pairs and learn how to recognise genuine compassion in themselves.
3. TLC: Talk, Listen, Connect 3pm till 4pm
TLC (Talk, Listen, Connect) is a practical program by the Charter for Compassion designed to foster connection, empathy, and community resilience through structured conversations. Merida will lead us through this revolutionary approach
.🌞 SUNDAY — Compassion Beyond the Self
Morning Programme at The Sangha House
1. Yoga with Steph 9.30am – 10.30am
A flowing yoga session. Join members of our community as part of the weekends activities
2. Yoga with Steph 10.45am – 11.45am
A flowing yoga session. Join members of our community as part of the weekends activities
Afternoon Programme at The Sangha House
1. The Aṅguttara Nikāya & the Numbers of Compassion 1.00pm – 2.00pm
Andy brings the ancient Buddhist “Books of Numbers” to life with humour, storytelling, and modern relevance. Participants discover how these lists — the twos, threes, fours and beyond — offer practical guidance for cultivating empathy, clarity, and wise action in today’s world.
2. Interbeing: A Guided Journey Into Our Shared Life 2.45pm – 3.45pm
A deep, immersive meditation experience exploring the truth of interdependence. Using his radio-presenter warmth and narrative skill, Andy leads participants through breath, body, earth, and community, helping them feel the subtle threads that connect all beings. A quiet, spacious session that leaves people grounded and open-hearted.
3. The Compassionate Community: A Conversation with Merida McCarthy 4.00pm – 4.45p,m
Andy and Merida co-lead a rich, inspiring dialogue on what compassionate communities look like in practice — from Taunton to global Charter for Compassion cities. Merida shares stories from international projects, followed by an open Q&A. The session closes with a shared dedication of goodwill for the local community and the wider world.
4. The worldwide Sangha. A monthly Sangha run by Merida and Andy 5.00pm – 6.30pm
The Global Sangha is a worldwide virtual meeting of hearts. Across the globe, people join each month for contemplation and meditation. Merida and Andy have been running this for over 2 years. We will run this months session live from the Sangha House and invite you all to join us in the top studio where we will zoom out and connect with the world.
FAQ’s
Do I need any experience? Absolutely not. The whole weekend is suitable for both complete beginners and people with a meditation, mindfulness, yoga, pilates, tai chi or compassion practice. The weekend is open to ages 16+, all faiths and non. A truly inclusive weekend
Do I need to bring a mat? No, we have loads.
What do I need to wear? If you are coming for the morning sessions, loose, flowing clothing. For the afternoon session…..well, whatever you like. Maybe something colourful and compassionately vibrant?
Is there parking? Not on site. Closest car parks are The Crescent or Castle Street.
Where are you? The junction of Tower Street, Park Street and Corporation street. We are in the old stone chapel on the roundabout. Here’s a google maps link - https://maps.app.goo.gl/MczFBwu4ax3ZFkwH7
Do I need to bring Food and drink? Yes, we won’t have food or drinks available so bring some snacks and drinks with you.
Is the weekend really Free? Yes it is! We are throwing open the doors to Taunton to celebrate compassion!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00
