What Can We Put Our Trust In: Refuge in the Three Jewels

In Buddhism, our Refuge objects are called Jewels as each one is precious. These are Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. In this day retreat, participants will engage in 4 sessions that enable us to deepen our confidence in the 3 Jewels as reliable sources of protection. We will begin each session with prayers and the visualization of Buddha Shakyamuni, followed by a guided meditation on one of the 3 Jewels.

We ask participants to show up 10-15 minutes before the start of the retreat as we begin on time and want to maintain a quiet environment.

Leader: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center 10875 Main St #108 Fairfax VA 22030

Contact: spc@guhysamaja.org for any questions

Suggested Donations: $30 for non-members and $20 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds. Donate online.

The Practice of Prostrations to the Thirty-five Confession Buddhas

Description: This practice enables us to purify negative actions through prostrations. Each of the  35 Confession Buddhas purifies specific negative actions. Venerable Damchoe will guide participants through the visualization, meditation, and recitation of the Buddhas' names.  As we recite the names participants can perform prostrations in the comfort of their own homes! One can engage in full-length or five-limb prostrations. Or you may simply place your hands in the prostration mudra at your heart.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the practice and how to do the prostrations please order this from: FPMT SHOP

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: Online only via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83922027173?pwd=MWt6V28wL2tod1pMMUthWTMxMWt5Zz09
Meeting ID: 839 2202 7173
Passcode: 529090

Suggested Donations: $15 for non-members and $10 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds. Donate online.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Discovering Buddhism Module 7: Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels

Refuge in the Three Jewels, Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha is the foundation for every Buddhist practice. Lama Yeshe has said," Buddhist Refuge is a process of turning inward that begins with our discovery of our unlimited potential for enlightenment." In this course participants will learn who and what are reliable sources of Refuge, what are the causes and functions of taking Refuge, the commitments of Refuge Vows and what is Ultimate Refuge.

We ask participants to please show up 10-15 minutes early to settle in as we start promptly at 10 AM with prayers and a guided meditation

Learn more about the Discovering Buddhism Course from FPMT.

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: In person at the Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center 10875 Main St #108 Fairfax Va 22030

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara)--Chapter Four

These classes focus on key points from the 4th Chapter of Maitreya's Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara). From among the many extensive teachings in that chapter, we will particularly focus on the structure of the path that is traveled by bodhisattvas on their journey to full enlightenment which traverses the five paths and ten grounds. We will also look at an elaboration of the Buddha's core teaching on the four noble truths which explores the 16 aspects of those four noble truths. We'll explore a bit about the philosophical underpinnings of the Ornament. And, the majority of our time in this series of classes will involve a deep exploration of the nature and practice of the 3 Harmonies with Enlightenment, which include the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness. We will look at classical teachings on those topics and will also engage in meditations based upon those teachings.

This is not an introductory level subject; it's rather intermediate, tending towards the advanced. To benefit well from these teachings, students should have previous experience studying some of Buddhist philosophy based on the texts of the Indo-Tibetan tradition.

Classes on the 4th chapter of the Ornament are part of FPMT's Basic Program.

Teacher: Dr. Lorne Ladner

Location: Hybrid event: in person at the Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center, 10875 Main St. #108, Fairfax, VA 22030 and on Zoom - see link below

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds. Donate online.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83826087006?pwd=hKV1uqRzzz6TxHA8Bj7qqgYWxFgBb9.1
Meeting ID: 838 2608 7006
Passcode: 931745

One tap mobile
+13017158592,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US (Washington DC)
+13052241968,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US
Dial by your location
• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
• +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
• +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver)
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kc897SCkad

Introduction to the Four Noble Truths

The Buddha taught for 45 years and The Four Noble Truths are a summary of his teachings.  As we study and begin to truly understand them, we will experience increased joy and happiness and reduced suffering and unhappiness.   Class will begin with a guided meditation, then an introductory discourse on the Four Noble Truths and, if time allows, take a few questions about the teaching.  Wear comfortable clothes, be prepared to remove your shoes (thick socks are encouraged in this cold weather), and come see what the Buddha discovered. 

This class is designed for those who are new to Buddhism and are curious to see what its about. No previous experience is required.  

Facilitator: Jodi Schmitt

Time: 11:00am to 12:30pm

Location: In-person only at Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center, 10875 Main St. #108, Fairfax, VA 22030

Suggested donations: $20 for non-members and $10 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds. Donate online.

Please check the Center's calendar for any updates.

Contact spc@guhyasmaja.org if you have any questions, 

The Practice of Prostrations to the Thirty-five Confession Buddhas

Description: This practice enables us to purify negative actions through prostrations. Each of the  35 Confession Buddhas purifies specific negative actions. Venerable Damchoe will guide participants through the visualization, meditation, and recitation of the Buddhas' names.  As we recite the names participants can perform prostrations in the comfort of their own homes! One can engage in full-length or five-limb prostrations. Or you may simply place your hands in the prostration mudra at your heart.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the practice and how to do the prostrations please order this from: FPMT SHOP

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: Online only via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83922027173?pwd=MWt6V28wL2tod1pMMUthWTMxMWt5Zz09
Meeting ID: 839 2202 7173
Passcode: 529090

Suggested Donations: $15 for non-members and $10 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds. Donate online.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Discovering Buddhism Module 7: Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels

Refuge in the Three Jewels, Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha is the foundation for every Buddhist practice. Lama Yeshe has said," Buddhist Refuge is a process of turning inward that begins with our discovery of our unlimited potential for enlightenment." In this course participants will learn who and what are reliable sources of Refuge, what are the causes and functions of taking Refuge, the commitments of Refuge Vows and what is Ultimate Refuge.

We ask participants to please show up 10-15 minutes early to settle in as we start promptly at 10 AM with prayers and a guided meditation

Learn more about the Discovering Buddhism Course from FPMT.

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: In person at the Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center 10875 Main St #108 Fairfax Va 22030

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Mindfulness Meditation and How to set-up a Buddhist altar

All are welcome to join this class on how to practice mindfulness meditation during your everyday, busy lives. This class emphasizes mindfulness as a core practice, encouraging the development of awareness of the body, feelings, and mind. Next we will have a brief description and discussion on how to set up an altar with offerings in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Facilitator: Gabe Mata

Time: 11:00am to 12:30pm

Location: In-person only at Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center, 10875 Main St. #108, Fairfax, VA 22030

Suggested donations: $20 for non-members and $10 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds. Donate online.

Please check the Center's calendar for any updates.

Contact spc@guhyasmaja.org if you have any questions, 

The Practice of Prostrations to the Thirty-five Confession Buddhas

Description: This practice enables us to purify negative actions through prostrations. Each of the  35 Confession Buddhas purifies specific negative actions. Venerable Damchoe will guide participants through the visualization, meditation, and recitation of the Buddhas' names.  As we recite the names participants can perform prostrations in the comfort of their own homes! One can engage in full-length or five-limb prostrations. Or you may simply place your hands in the prostration mudra at your heart.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the practice and how to do the prostrations please order this from: FPMT SHOP

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: Online only via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83922027173?pwd=MWt6V28wL2tod1pMMUthWTMxMWt5Zz09
Meeting ID: 839 2202 7173
Passcode: 529090

Suggested Donations: $15 for non-members and $10 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Discovering Buddhism Module 7: Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels

Refuge in the Three Jewels, Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha is the foundation for every Buddhist practice. Lama Yeshe has said," Buddhist Refuge is a process of turning inward that begins with our discovery of our unlimited potential for enlightenment." In this course participants will learn who and what are reliable sources of Refuge, what are the causes and functions of taking Refuge, the commitments of Refuge Vows and what is Ultimate Refuge.

We ask participants to please show up 10-15 minutes early to settle in as we start promptly at 10 AM with prayers and a guided meditation

Learn more about the Discovering Buddhism Course from FPMT.

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: In person at the Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center 10875 Main St #108 Fairfax Va 22030

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara)--Chapter Four

These classes focus on key points from the 4th Chapter of Maitreya's Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara). From among the many extensive teachings in that chapter, we will particularly focus on the structure of the path that is traveled by bodhisattvas on their journey to full enlightenment which traverses the five paths and ten grounds. We will also look at an elaboration of the Buddha's core teaching on the four noble truths which explores the 16 aspects of those four noble truths. We'll explore a bit about the philosophical underpinnings of the Ornament. And, the majority of our time in this series of classes will involve a deep exploration of the nature and practice of the 3 Harmonies with Enlightenment, which include the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness. We will look at classical teachings on those topics and will also engage in meditations based upon those teachings.

This is not an introductory level subject; it's rather intermediate, tending towards the advanced. To benefit well from these teachings, students should have previous experience studying some of Buddhist philosophy based on the texts of the Indo-Tibetan tradition.

Classes on the 4th chapter of the Ornament are part of FPMT's Basic Program.

Teacher: Dr. Lorne Ladner

Location: Hybrid event: in person at the Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center, 10875 Main St. #108, Fairfax, VA 22030 and on Zoom - see link below

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83826087006?pwd=hKV1uqRzzz6TxHA8Bj7qqgYWxFgBb9.1
Meeting ID: 838 2608 7006
Passcode: 931745

One tap mobile
+13017158592,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US (Washington DC)
+13052241968,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US
Dial by your location
• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
• +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
• +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver)
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kc897SCkad

Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara)--Chapter Four

These classes focus on key points from the 4th Chapter of Maitreya's Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara). From among the many extensive teachings in that chapter, we will particularly focus on the structure of the path that is traveled by bodhisattvas on their journey to full enlightenment which traverses the five paths and ten grounds. We will also look at an elaboration of the Buddha's core teaching on the four noble truths which explores the 16 aspects of those four noble truths. We'll explore a bit about the philosophical underpinnings of the Ornament. And, the majority of our time in this series of classes will involve a deep exploration of the nature and practice of the 3 Harmonies with Enlightenment, which include the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness. We will look at classical teachings on those topics and will also engage in meditations based upon those teachings.

This is not an introductory level subject; it's rather intermediate, tending towards the advanced. To benefit well from these teachings, students should have previous experience studying some of Buddhist philosophy based on the texts of the Indo-Tibetan tradition.

Classes on the 4th chapter of the Ornament are part of FPMT's Basic Program.

Teacher: Dr. Lorne Ladner

Location: Hybrid event: in person at the Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center, 10875 Main St. #108, Fairfax, VA 22030 and on Zoom - see link below

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83826087006?pwd=hKV1uqRzzz6TxHA8Bj7qqgYWxFgBb9.1
Meeting ID: 838 2608 7006
Passcode: 931745

One tap mobile
+13017158592,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US (Washington DC)
+13052241968,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US
Dial by your location
• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
• +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
• +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver)
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kc897SCkad

How to set up and perform a Nyung Na Fasting Retreat in your own home

This class is ideal for the Discovering Buddhism Students who are participating in the full program or for anyone interested in doing a 2-day fasting retreat.

Nyung Na is a powerful purification practice that was given to the nun Gelongma Palma by Chenrezig Buddha of Compassion. This practice therefore contains great blessings and is highly praised by Lama Zopa Rinpoche as a method for transforming the mind. This practice will strengthen our connection to Chenrezig and enable us to purify our negative states of mind. 

Venerable Damchoe will instruct participants on how to set up the preparatory ritual and how to conduct the retreat in their own homes. You can purchase Nyung Na - Instructions by Lama Zopa Rinpoche at FPMT SHOP.

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: In person at the Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center 10875 Main St #108 Fairfax Va 22030

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

The Practice of Prostrations to the Thirty-five Confession Buddhas

Description: This practice enables us to purify negative actions through prostrations. Each of the  35 Confession Buddhas purifies specific negative actions. Venerable Damchoe will guide participants through the visualization, meditation, and recitation of the Buddhas' names.  As we recite the names participants can perform prostrations in the comfort of their own homes! One can engage in full-length or five-limb prostrations. Or you may simply place your hands in the prostration mudra at your heart.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the practice and how to do the prostrations please order this from: FPMT SHOP

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: Online only via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83922027173?pwd=MWt6V28wL2tod1pMMUthWTMxMWt5Zz09
Meeting ID: 839 2202 7173
Passcode: 529090

Suggested Donations: $15 for non-members and $10 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Vajrasattva Meditation - Purification with the Four Opponent Powers

Description: This retreat will use a Vajrasattva Meditation that purifies our negative karma by utilizing the four opponent powers of reliance, regret, remedy, and restraint. Vajrasattva is the holy mind of all the Buddhas, the dharmakaya, who out of his immeasurable compassion appears in a white translucent form to help us purify our negative habits. Each of the four sessions will include a visualization, prayers, meditation, and mantra recitation. We ask participants to show up 10 -15 minutes early to settle in and provide a quiet environment for the retreat.

Leader: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: Guhyasamaja Buddhist Center 10875 Main St #108 Fairfax VA 22030

Contact: spc@guhysamaja.org for any questions

Suggested Donations: $30 for non-members and $20 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Due to lack of internet service at the center, today’s class is online only. See below for zoom link and info.

Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara)--Chapter Four

These classes focus on key points from the 4th Chapter of Maitreya's Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara). From among the many extensive teachings in that chapter, we will particularly focus on the structure of the path that is traveled by bodhisattvas on their journey to full enlightenment which traverses the five paths and ten grounds. We will also look at an elaboration of the Buddha's core teaching on the four noble truths which explores the 16 aspects of those four noble truths. We'll explore a bit about the philosophical underpinnings of the Ornament. And, the majority of our time in this series of classes will involve a deep exploration of the nature and practice of the 3 Harmonies with Enlightenment, which include the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness. We will look at classical teachings on those topics and will also engage in meditations based upon those teachings.

This is not an introductory level subject; it's rather intermediate, tending towards the advanced. To benefit well from these teachings, students should have previous experience studying some of Buddhist philosophy based on the texts of the Indo-Tibetan tradition.

Classes on the 4th chapter of the Ornament are part of FPMT's Basic Program.

Teacher: Dr. Lorne Ladner

Location: ONLINE ONLY TODAY DUE TO INTERNET SERVICE ISSUES AT THE CENTER

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83826087006?pwd=hKV1uqRzzz6TxHA8Bj7qqgYWxFgBb9.1
Meeting ID: 838 2608 7006
Passcode: 931745

One tap mobile
+13017158592,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US (Washington DC)
+13052241968,,83826087006#,,,,*931745# US
Dial by your location
• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
• +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
• +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver)
Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kc897SCkad

Discovering Buddhism Module 6: All About Karma

This course is designed to familiarize students with the Buddhist concept of cause and effect, or karma, the relationship between actions and results, and how actions are the principal determining factor in whether we experience happiness or suffering. The course will also cover methods of purifying negativities and accumulating merit, enabling us to succeed in our meditation and spiritual life. 

Topics will include investigating our intentions, karma and personal responsibility, virtuous and non-virtuous actions and their results, and different practices to purify and accumulate merit.

Learn more about the Discovering Buddhism Course from FPMT.

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Suggested donations: $15/class for non-members and $10/class for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for the text and materials or if you have any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83178999931?pwd=lj5DFfjXHgha8A8R5l7g4vfhnpAeOp.1

Meeting ID: 831 7899 9931
Passcode: 767848

One tap mobile
+19292056099,,83178999931#,,,,*767848# US (New York)
+13017158592,,83178999931#,,,,*767848# US (Washington DC)

Dial by your location
• +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
• +1 305 224 1968 US

The Practice of Prostrations to the Thirty-five Confession Buddhas

Description: This practice enables us to purify negative actions through prostrations. Each of the  35 Confession Buddhas purifies specific negative actions. Venerable Damchoe will guide participants through the visualization, meditation, and recitation of the Buddhas' names.  As we recite the names participants can perform prostrations in the comfort of their own homes! One can engage in full-length or five-limb prostrations. Or you may simply place your hands in the prostration mudra at your heart.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the practice and how to do the prostrations please order this from: FPMT SHOP

Teacher: Venerable Lobsang Damchoe

Location: Online only via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83922027173?pwd=MWt6V28wL2tod1pMMUthWTMxMWt5Zz09
Meeting ID: 839 2202 7173
Passcode: 529090

Suggested Donations: $15 for non-members and $10 for members. No one is turned away due to a lack of funds.

Contact spc@guhyasamaja.org for any questions.

Please check the calendar to confirm.

Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara)--Chapter Four

These classes focus on key points from the 4th Chapter of Maitreya's Ornament for Clear Realizations (Abhisamayalamkara). From among the many extensive teachings in that chapter, we will particularly focus on the structure of the path that is traveled by bodhisattvas on their journey to full enlightenment which traverses the five paths and ten grounds. We will also look at an elaboration of the Buddha's core teaching on the four noble truths which explores the 16 aspects of those four noble truths. We'll explore a bit about the philosophical underpinnings of the Ornament. And, the majority of our time in this series of classes will involve a deep exploration of the nature and practice of the 3 Harmonies with Enlightenment, which include the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness. We will look at classical teachings on those topics and will also engage in meditations based upon those teachings.

This is not an introductory level subject; it's rather intermediate, tending towards the advanced. To benefit well from these teachings, students should have previous experience studying some of Buddhist philosophy based on the texts of the Indo-Tibetan tradition.

Classes on the 4th chapter of the Ornament are part of FPMT's Basic Program.

Discovering Buddhism Module 6: All About Karma

This course is designed to familiarize students with the Buddhist concept of cause and effect, or karma, the relationship between actions and results, and how actions are the principal determining factor in whether we experience happiness or suffering. The course will also cover methods of purifying negativities and accumulating merit, enabling us to succeed in our meditation and spiritual life. 

Topics will include investigating our intentions, karma and personal responsibility, virtuous and non-virtuous actions and their results, and different practices to purify and accumulate merit.

Learn more about the Discovering Buddhism Course from FPMT.