Khankah SAM/Mentorgarden is the first residential community of the Sufi Ruhaniat International and is located in the hills of the Bernal Heights neighborhood of San Francisco.  It began in Murshid Samuel Lewis’ home at 410 Precita Avenue, across from Precita Park.  It was here, in the garage below his dwelling, that Murshid Sam brought forth the Dances of Universal Peace.

The magnetism of joy that Murshid Sam generated drew young spiritual seekers in the fertile years of the late 1960’s.  Classes were offered, focusing on Sufi teachings, the Dharmic traditions, walking and breath practices, and of course the Dances.  This center became known as the Mentorgarden, a name offered by Murshid SAM’s Zen teacher, Nyogen Sensaki.

The current spiritual director, Murshid Wali Ali Meyer, was one of the seekers who found his way to this remarkable teacher.  He lived with Murshid Sam in the residential quarters upstairs from the meeting hall and served as esoteric secretary from 1969 until Murshid’s passing in January, 1971.  He worked closely with Murshid Sam, receiving both sacred teachings and a direct transmission which empowered him to continue to serve the Message of Love, Harmony and Beauty.

After Murshid Sam’s passing in 1971, under Wali Ali’s guidance, the Khankah continued to grow as a residential community, and other properties were obtained nearby, including the houses of 63 and 65 Norwich Street.  Over the years, residents and friends have renovated the dwellings.  A large community kitchen and dining room serve as the heart of this community, who follow Murshid Sam’s formula for World Peace: to “Eat, Dance and Pray Together.”

 Murshid Wali Ali has traveled widely teaching Sufi esotericism and imparting the transmissions of the Spiritual Walks and Dances.  He has worked on the publications of Murshid Samuel Lewis’ writings.  After a number of years residing in Virginia, Murshid Wali Ali returned to the Bay Area.  In 2002 he became the Director of the Esoteric School of the Sufi Ruhaniat International at the request of Pir Shabda Kahn.  Since 2007 he has resided at the Mentorgarden with his wife and young son, bringing the story full circle, as the student has become the Murshid.  His teachings continue to offer a profound insight into the nature of the soul and an extensive spiritual study of practice and teachings.

In honoring all the religions, the Khankah is a place of blessing, inspiration and personal growth for its residents, visitors, and guests.

Today the Khankah houses 7 full time residents.  Some have lived there nearly since its inception.  Residents abide by shared agreements designed to support harmonious and conscious cooperative living in the context of shared spiritual commitment and belief.  The houses are set in flourishing and flowering gardens which provide a tranquil oasis in this urban setting.  Tuesday evening potluck dinners are an institution shared weekly by the residents and guests who come from around the world.  The dinner is often followed by classes offered by Wali Ali.  The renovated garage at 410 Precita has become a meeting room where the Dances continue to be shared.  Zikrs are held twice monthly in the Khankah kitchen, and the healing service is performed every Sunday.  Work days are part of community life, and tending “Sam’s garden” is a means of walking in his footsteps, a dedicated horticulturist.

We have Thanksgiving and Christmas community celebrations; overnight guest stays by reservation; and the opportunity for long term residence and Khankah membership. 

Visit our web site at www.khankahsam.org to see current calendar listings, and feel free to contact us to learn more.