Shelter from the Storm

Teachings on Buddhist Refuge and the Refuge Vow Ceremony

Buddha taught how all of our problems and unhappiness are rooted in negative states of mind such as anger, attachment, and confusion. Unless we learn practical methods to let go of these negative minds it will be impossible for us to experience real freedom and happiness, and we will find that we are unable to maintain a happy mind when things are not going well for us in life.

On this weekend course we will look at how, by seeking refuge in the Three Jewels – Buddha, Dharma (Buddhist teachings), and Sangha (the spiritual community), we can overcome our negative states of  find, find mental stability, and permanent freedom from our problems. Seeking refuge in the Three Jewels is the essence of the Buddhist way of life.

On Saturday afternoon there will be an opportunity to make a firm commitment to following the Buddhist path by taking refuge vows.  The essence of the vows is to put effort into receiving Buddha’s blessings, receiving help from Sangha and putting Dharma (Buddha’s teachings) into practice.

There will be a beautiful ceremony enabling us to enter into Buddhism by taking the Refuge vows.  This session is optional.

If you wish to just learn about the practice of Buddhist refuge, the morning sessions are perfect.

On Sunday there will be a guided retreat led by Gen Thekchen, to help us develop the mind of refuge and put it into practice by meditating on compassion and wisdom.

This will lead into a partially guided retreat from Monday – Thursday.