Foundation Program
The Foundation Program
with Kelsang Oden
On December 4th,2009, we started a new study book ,
Joyful Path of Good Fortune:
The Complete Buddhist Path to Enlightenment
by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
What is the Foundation Program?
This Program is ideal for those who have an introductory understanding of Buddhism and who wish to learn more.
Buddhism teaches that to find lasting happiness and meaning in our lives we need to follow a spiritual path. With good conditions – including a close connection with a qualified Teacher who can give us personal advice and encouragement, direct access to pure Dharma teachings, and the support of a strong spiritual community – we are better able to deeply penetrate the meaning of Buddha's teachings, maintain a focused daily meditation practice, and make genuine spiritual progress. The Foundation Program provides such conditions for practitioners, in essence the training followed by spiritual aspirants in an unbroken lineage dating back to Buddha Shakyamuni.
A Unique Program
The special quality of the program is that it enables us to gain authentic spiritual experience without abandoning our life in the world. It also builds our confidence in the power and practice of meditation. The meditations range from basic techniques for overcoming everyday problems to sublime practices that pave the way to unsurpassed happiness and permanent inner peace. Warm friendships develop as students inspire each other, and share spiritual insights and experiences.
Subjects Studied
Five subject areas are studied, based on six texts by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
· Stages of the Path to Enlightenment (Lamrim), based on Joyful Path of Good Fortune
· Stages of the Path to Enlightenment (Lamrim), based on Joyful Path of Good Fortune
· Training the Mind, based on Universal Compassion and Eight Steps to Happiness
· The Heart Sutra, based on Heart of Wisdom
· Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life, based on Meaningful to Behold
· Understanding the Mind, based on the book of the same name.
The Book Currently Being Studied
Joyful Path of Good Fortune consists of a complete guide to the essential teachings of Buddha. These teachings are based on the instructions of Lamrim (stages of the path to enlightenment) which were brought by Atisha to Tibet. The step-by-step guidance on all the meditations leading to full enlightenment is a practical method for transforming our life and finding lasting peace and happiness.
What is the Structure?
The Foundation Program's success lies in the manageable commitments called for, and the clear study structure provided. Students meet twice a week during term times -- on Monday evenings and Thursday mornings -- and have regular term breaks and a longer break in the summer.
Those signing up for the course commit to attend all the classes unless excused in advance for a valid reason, as well as one puja (chanted meditation) weekly at the Centre, and to take a test at intervals. Over time, students come to appreciate these commitments, and to view them not as a burden, but as helpful and supportive.
Through systematic study, meditation and group discussion, the program offers deep support for your spiritual life, being in essence the same training followed by spiritual practitioners in an unbroken lineage dating back to Buddha Shakyamuni. Its special quality is that it allows us to gain authentic experience without abandoning our modern lifestyle.
The Teacher
The Foundation Program teacher is Kelsang Oden, a Buddhist nun who is the Resident Teacher at Tara Centre.
When Does It Start?
The next term of Foundation Program begins on October 25. If you are interested in finding out more, come to the first class where Kelsang Oden will introduce the program and answer any questions and concerns you may have.
You may enroll at the beginning of any term. You should first contact Kelsang Oden at 435-3894 or tarakbc@gmail.com
Cost
The fee is Bds $100 per month throughout the year. This entitles you to attend all General Program classes free of cost, and day courses and retreats at half price. (Exceptions: Empowerments and other special off-site events). No one is turned away for lack of funds. If you have a sincere wish to attend, some adjustment to the fee is possible.
For more information
If you are interested in joining the Foundation Program, please contact Kelsang Oden. You may, if you wish, arrange in advance for a trial visit at no charge.