Our spiritual program forms the core of what we do. Through the spiritual program, we strive to follow and implement the advice of our Spiritual Director, Lama Zopa Rinpoche, and the policies of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT).
We offer a wide range of study and practice opportunities. Our goal is to meet the varied spiritual needs of our community. Thus we have study programs for beginners as well as for those who have been practicing for a number of years. We have weekly practice sessions including silent meditation and special Mahayana practices. We have many special programs to celebrate holy days and secular holidays. We offer programs for children, memorial services for the deceased, animal blessings and animal release ceremonies. We host visiting teachers annually and sponsor weekend retreats on a nearby farm.
We invite our guests to participate in as many or as few activities as each person finds beneficial. Unless specified, there is no preregistration required for our programs.
All aspects of our spiritual program are offered on the basis of "dana". This is a Sanskrit word that means "giving" or "generosity". We do not charge a fee or even "suggested donation". Instead, each person is encouraged to look into his or her heart to see how best to support the programs at Kadampa Center. This opportunity to practice generosity freely is an integral part of our spiritual practice.
We welcome visitors. Though Kadampa Center follows an ancient holy tradition, we strive to remain informal and welcoming of all guests and newcomers. When you come to Kadampa Center for the first time we would love to have you introduce yourself to us. At almost all sessions, there is someone wearing a maroon and gold ribbon who is there to answer questions and help provide an orientation to our center.
We look forward to seeing you at Kadampa Center.
Kadampa Center, Raleigh, NC, USA -- Affiliated with the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition