Simplicity - Community Camp in Pfarrkeßlar

July 19 – 25 2026

Here’s everything you need to know about our summer gathering:

How do I register?
On this registration page. I will then automatically receive an email with bank details and transfer the total amount within two weeks. As soon as my money is in the Zenith account, I am considered registered and will receive confirmation.

How many places are there?
There is space for 77 adults and up to 20 children.

When should I register?
As soon as possible, because there is already a lot of interest. Once all places are taken, we will keep a waiting list.

What accommodation options are available?
A) I will bring my own tent and camping equipment; camping is included in the price.
B) I will sleep in a simple seminar house in a 4-bed room and use a shared bathroom for €50 per week (there are 16 beds). This must be booked with your registration.
C) I will sleep in my car/camper. Places are limited, so this must be selected with your registration.
D) I will book accommodation outside Pfarrkeßlar at my own expense. The camp price remains the same.

Prices
For adults, the participation fee is 290€. A bed in a four-person room costs 50€ per week. Meals and camping are included.
Children up to 5 years old are free of charge. For children and teenagers from 6 to 17 years old, the price is 145€.

That’s enough?
The price has been kept as low as possible so that everyone can participate. Everything is calculated to just cover costs. Rounding up the contribution is very welcome and will go directly into the current fundraising campaign for Zenith’s running costs.

Where will the camp take place?
On the grounds of buntergrund e.V. in Thuringia. A camping area, meadow parking lot and basic infrastructure are available.

What about Food?
A team of three plans and manages the kitchen. Fresh, vegan, simple, organic meals will be served. Everyone helps out.

Dishes?
I bring my own plates, cutlery and cup, as well as a bag in which I can hang them up. A pocket knife is very useful because you have to cut your own breakfast fruit. If I want to dry up after washing up, I bring my own tea towel.

Work camp and take-down?
A small group makes additions to the existing infrastructure within 2.5 days and dismantles everything within 1.5 days. This minimises costs. Everyone helps a little with take-down after the Universal Worship on Saturday.

Arrival
Arrival by car takes place on Sunday, no earlier than 12 noon. Details regarding arrival will be published later.
When travelling by train, I will arrive by train in Kahla no earlier than 2 p.m. I will be picked up there as previously arranged and I’ll bring a bit of patience (12 km journey).

Arrival on site
Immediately after parking/arriving and before setting up the tent, I will register at the office.
Those who have arrived are welcome to take on tasks such as briefing the next arrivals, cooking, travelling to the station or otherwise helping with the infrastructure.

Departure
The departure day for everyone is Saturday. After the Universal Service on Saturday, I help out a little, and the last meal is lunch.

Seat cushion
The round retreat meditation tent is set up without a wooden floor. I bring my own seat cushion. If I come by public transport, I ask a friend to bring me something. Those who come by car bring something with them as a reserve (no coordination via Camp).

Program

  • Concept: There are no official, paid teachers. The community gives gifts to each other. We have so many people among us with wonderful things to offer and knowledge to share!
  • The times correspond to the familiar schedule of the camp in the Alps and in Bad Bevensen.
  • There will likely be 2-3 fixed activities in the morning, coordinated ‘open space’ in the afternoon, and a joint program for everyone in the evening.
  • We will begin preparing our community program with the March newsletter.

Children
The charming Gemma is there for the children! Upon agreement, she welcomes a helping hand here and there from parents, teenagers, and other adults.

Community meets simplicity

  • As there are no staff members, everyone contributes to the running of our camp in various areas.
  • The jobs are divided up immediately after everyone arrives (karma yoga).
  • As there are very few people in charge, I carry out my tasks reliably and punctually in accordance with the job description (adab).
  • I produce as little rubbish as possible.
  • I make sure to use water sparingly.
  • I respect and take care of the clean, beautiful grounds together with everyone else.
  • If I come by car, I may have to make a trip.
  • If I come by car, I could bring 1 spare set of dishes.
Registration