Beginners’ Guide to the Supreme Happiness of Enlightenment
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‘With delight I rejoice in the ocean of virtue
That arises from generating the mind of enlightenment, bodhichitta,
Which brings happiness to all living beings,
And in the deeds that benefit those beings.’
– Shantideva
Following Buddha’s advice gives us the opportunity to choose everlasting, pure happiness. On this course get an overview of the path to enlightenment and explore how to enter, progress along and complete this path.
The venue
The environment of Bodhisattva KMC is very relaxing and there is plenty of time between retreat sessions to enjoy our café, to meet and chat with other retreatants and the community of Bodhisattva KMC, and to enjoy walking and gentle strolls along the Brighton and Hove sea front and promenade. The peaceful surroundings of Bodhisattva KMC help people to create a comfortable space within their own minds.
All meals are provided during our weekend courses (Friday supper to Sunday lunch) and are vegetarian, home-cooked and delicious! During the breaks our café is open for you to relax, unwind and enjoy light refreshments.
To gain maximum benefit and to be fully immersed in a meditation course, you are very welcome to stay overnight at Bodhisattva KMC. We offer warm, clean, and comfortable residential accommodation and this can be booked through our online booking system.
Due to the popularity of our classes our accommodation sells out quite quickly. Please book in advance if possible. If you find we are sold out of accommodation then please check www.visitbrighton.com for other options.
About the teacher
Our Resident Teacher, Gen Kelsang Thekchen, is a senior meditation teacher in the New Kadampa Tradition.
He comes from Canada, and was previously the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center Vancouver, one of the many worldwide Kadampa Buddhist Meditation Centres.
Gen Thekchen has been practising and teaching Buddhist meditation for over 20 years under the guidance of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. He is well known for his ability to present Buddha’s teachings in a simple, practical and often humorous way, making them easy to put into practice in everyday life.
The schedule
The retreat will begin Friday 23 February in the evening at 7.30 pm with an introduction and conclude on Sunday 25 February, with lunch, served at 1.15 pm.
The retreat session times will be as follows:
Friday:
(Supper will be served at 6 pm)
7.30 pm – 8.45 pm : Introduction
Saturday:
9 am – 10.30 am : Session 1
11.30 am – 1 pm : Session 2
(Lunch will be served at 1.15 pm)
2.15 pm – 3.30 pm : Session 3
4.15 pm – 5.30 pm : Session 4
(Supper will be served at 6 pm)
7.30 pm – 9 pm The centre will be engaging in its weekly Chanted Prayers (Wishfulfilling Jewel with Tsog), and you are welcome to join us
Sunday:
9 am – 10.15 am : Session 5
11.30 am – 1 pm : Session 6
(Lunch will be served at 1.15 pm)
Fees for the weekend
Accommodation options (per person):
Single room: £90
Twin Room: £60
Double Room: £60
Male Dormitory: £30
Female Dormitory: £30
