Friends on the Path presents some of Thich Nhat Hanh's most precious offerings on the necessity of practicing with a Sangha (spiritual community) in order to receive support and encouragement along the way. This anthology also includes contributions from Dharma teachers and Sangha leaders from around the world based on many years of experience and gives sage advice from these teachers on how to build and sustain a Sangha.

This volume explores what it means to “go as a Sangha,” as spiritual friends down the path of a contemplative way of life, wonderfully and mindfully together. It is our hope that the teachings and descriptions of the ups and downs of Sangha life included in this book will be of benefit to all of us who practice mindfulness. The work being done by Sanghas from around the world that is being presented here is a modest but essential first step; such a compilation is never as complete and diverse as one hopes. You are wholeheartedly invited to read this book with your Sangha eyes, to write us with your thoughts and suggestions for the next edition, and to join hands with us as friends on the path of mindfulness practice.