study programs
the foundation program
taught by resident teacher gen kelsang daö
Many Buddhist practitioners have a sincere wish to deepen their knowledge and experience of Dharma and to gain authentic spiritual realisations through a structured programme of Dharma studies. The Foundation Program is designed to fulfil this wish. It provides a systematic presentation of the basic subjects of Mahayana Buddhism and forms a perfect basis for a strong daily practice.
Geshe Kelsang says: "Our present understanding and experience of Dharma is quite superficial. There is a big gap between our mind and Dharma and we cannot apply Dharma in our daily lives. Our approach remains passive, like someone watching television, and our mind remains as uncontrolled as before. Why is this? It is because we are not studying systematically, according to a specially designed programme. If we just pick at Dharma randomly we shall never gain deep and stable experience. For this reason the foundation programme is very important."
We all have the potential for self-transformation, and a limitless capacity for the growth of good qualities, but to fulfil this potential we need to know what to do along every stage of our spiritual journey. In this inspiring book, Joyful Path of Good Fortune, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso offers us step-by-step guidance on the meditation practices that will lead us to lasting inner peace and profound happiness. With extraordinary clarity, he presents all Buddha's teachings in the order in which they are to be practised, enriching his explanation with stories and illuminating analogies. Following theses practical instructions, we will come to experience for ourselves the joy that arises from making progress on a clear and structured path that leads to full enlightenment. This is a perfect guidebook to the Mahayana Buddhist path.
the program
Joining the Foundation Program involves enrolling for a section of a book and then trying to attend all the classes, one of which is an end-of-term exam. Studying in this way gives our lives a meaningful structure and helps us to gain fuller experience of the teachings. You can join the program at any time.
the classes
Sundays 9.15am - 1.00pm
Each class consists of preliminary prayers, guided meditation and a reading from the book with commentary and discussion.
Class Fee: $100 per month which also entitles you to attend all classes at Mahasiddha Centre and its branches.
If you are interested in joining the Foundation Program or would like to enrol, please contact Phachog at the centre on 9387 7717 or education@meditateinsydney.org . You are welcome to try the program for a week before enrolling. Cost $25.
the teacher training program
taught by resident teacher gen kelsang daö
The Teacher Training Program (TTP) offers the perfect opportunity to train as an authentic teacher of Kadampa Buddhism. This committed study program covers twelve of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso’s books on Sutra and Tantra, and includes a series of meditation retreats. TTP is the perfect basis for transforming our minds and swiftly progressing on the spiritual path. With this deeper understanding and clarity we can become fully qualified as a teacher of the New Kadampa Tradition.
the classes
Each class, taught by Gen Kelsang Daö consists of chanted prayers, a guided meditation, teaching and discussion. For further information please call Phachog at the centre.