Manjushri Dharma Center

Buddha Nature
2017-01-07 11:15 - 12:15 (America/Los_Angeles) | Private Residence, CA, United States
“All beings have Buddha nature. Just as milk is pervaded by butter, when the two accumulations are ‘churned’ with effort at some point Buddha nature will manifest! That is my heart advice. The difference between ‘Buddhas’ and ‘sentient beings’ is whether they have awakened awareness or not. If you don’t cling to them as permanently different, you will find Buddha within! That is my heart advice.” pages 6-7 Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar
On Buddha Nature from H.H.Dalai Lama: “From Buddha’s viewpoint, a human being has—through training, through practice—what we call the highest enlightened mental state. So through practice, a human being, through a sort of purification one’s own mental state, can eventually, finally, become an enlightened one. Even Buddha himself, in order to get final enlightenment, needed hard work. Every sentient being—even insects—have Buddha nature. The seed of Buddha means consciousness, the cognitive power—the seed of enlightenment. That’s from Buddha’s viewpoint. All destructive things can be removed from the mind, so therefore there’s no reason to believe some sentient being cannot become Buddha. Every sentient being has that seed.” Come and learn from Khenpo Karten Rinpoche as he teaches in his own English about the amazing potential all beings have to engage Buddha Nature.
H.H. Dalai Lama quote source: 2010 PBS interview

Blessing of the Waters
2016-12-21 17:00 - 17:30 | Lover’s Point Beach, 17th St and Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will offer a Water Blessing Ceremony on the occasion of the Winter Solstice, Wednesday, December 21, 2016, from 5:00pm-5:30pm at Lovers Point beach in Pacific Grove. The blessing will honor all the earth’s elements as Rinpoche will chant to pray for their protection. This is a powerful and poignant way to gather in community and to celebrate the shortest day of the year. Participants are invited to offer a group prayer with candles as a welcoming back of the light. Prayer copies and candles will be provided. The event is free to all. Participants are encouraged to bring flower petals to contribute to this beautiful and moving ceremony. We will also gather for our regular Thargyen class later that evening from 7:00-8:00pm at the Manjushri Dharma Center.

The Mind is King
2016-12-10 03:15 - 04:15 | Private Residence, CA, United States
In Buddhist teachings, the root of everything is the mind: all happiness and all suffering arise from the mind. No amount of massaging our external circumstances will lead to lasting happiness, and no amount of avoiding unpleasant situations will shield us from suffering. Happiness and suffering are states of mind, therefore their causes are found within the mind. If we train gently and consistently in the cultivation of love, compassion, acceptance, patience, forgiveness, and so forth–these helpful states of mind will lead to lasting happiness, even in the midst of difficult situations. If we are slaves to habitual anger, criticism, blame, jealousy and so forth–these unhelpful states of mind will lead to suffering, even in midst of great material advantage. Come and join us to learn how “mind is king.”
This class is part of a series of one-hour teachings given by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche based on his booklet “Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar.” The series will follow Saturday meditation sessions and serve as drop-in courses for anyone interested in practical ways to apply Dharma teachings to busy western life. No registration required. Suggested donation of $10.00, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. We hope you join us!
Questions, contact: Rachel Christopherson, rachelMDC2016@gmail.com or 831-901-3156.

Lhabab Duchen
2016-11-20 10:00 - 11:30 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Lhabab Düchen is one of the four Buddhist festivals commemorating four events in the life of the Buddha, according to Tibetan traditions. Lhabab Düchen occurs on the 22nd day of the ninth lunar month according to Tibetan calendar. (That falls on Sunday, November 20th in 2016)
Lhabab Düchen celebrates Buddha’s descent from The Heaven of Thirty-Three back to earth. Buddha had left for The Heaven Of Thirty-Three (Trayastrimsa) at the age of 41, in order to give teachings to benefit the gods in that desire realm, and to repay the kindness of his mother by liberating her from Samsara. He was exhorted by his follower and representative Maudgalyayana to return, and after a long debate and under a Full Moon agreed to return. He returned to earth a week later by a special triple ladder prepared by Viswakarma, the god of machines. This event is considered to be one of the eight great deeds of the Buddha.
On Lhabab Düchen, the effects of positive or negative actions are multiplied ten million times. It is part of Tibetan Buddhist tradition to engage in virtuous activities and prayer on this day.
To celebrate Lhabab Düchen we will have an Amitabha Tsog Offering Ceremony, making special food offerings to the Guru, Buddha, and Sangha, and also sharing food offerings with regional spirits. Please bring a food offering of any kind, any color, whatever you think would be nice. Beautiful fruit, cute cakes, popcorn, cookies, nuts, cheese/crackers or small bites are some ideas. Rinpoche will provide us with copies of the prayers and guide us in this ceremony. We hope to see you there!
Source for above information: Wikipedia
Photo courtesy of Nalanda Bodhi meditation center, Halifax: http://halifax.nalandabodhi.ca/

Thargyen Discussion Class
2016-11-16 11:00 - 12:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Wednesday, November 16
7:00pm-8:00pm
Manjushri Dharma Center

The Jewel Ornament of Liberation: The Wish-Fulfilling Gem of the Noble Teachings, was composed by the venerable Gampopa (1074-1153 C.E.) A masterwork of Tibetan Buddhism, this text provides a complete foundation for study and practice. Rinpoche has led us in our continuing study, with consecutive interpretation into English by David Molk, since August of 2015. We have examined the concepts of Buddha nature, precious human rebirth, the virtuous spiritual guide, and we are now looking at the method instructions. We have covered a lot of ground in this detailed text.

Instead of our usual reading of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation, Rinpoche will answer questions about the material covered so far in the book and classes. Rinpoche encourages students to write their questions so they are clearly formulated. This is an excellent opportunity to examine the teachings and have doubts, confusions and questions answered.

Questions or concerns may always be individually asked by making an appointment with Rinpoche by calling (831) 901-3156.

Dharma Journey Support & Discussion Group
2016-11-15 11:00 - 12:00 | MDC Member Private Residence, Address Given Upon Request, Email: Support@manjushridharmacenter.org
Embarking on a spiritual path takes courage and the support of like-minded people. Join Manjushri Dharma Center members Andrew and Denise as they host a Dharma Journey Support and Discussion Group at their home on Tuesday, November 15th, 7:00pm to 8:00pm. The purpose is to provide an informal setting to talk about and encourage each other as we put the Dharma into practice. We envision this group meeting monthly to bi-monthly at various practitioners homes. To join on November 15, please RSVP to support@manjushridharmacenter.org to receive the residence address and directions.
Image courtesy of Pixabay, public domain images.

Warm Coats For Tibetan Children
2016-11-12 03:15 - 04:15 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Slideshow of Eastern Tibet and Warm Coat Fundraiser for Tibetan Orphanage
Saturday, November 12th
11:15am-12:15pm
Manjushri Dharma Center

Following the meditation on Saturday (10-11am), Manjushri Dharma Center member Pam will share photos and stories of her trip with Lama Lakshe Zangpo to many monasteries and sacred sites in the Golok and Kham regions of Eastern Tibet. This will also be a fundraiser for the Tsengdruk Takse School, located on the grounds of the palace of Gesar, home and school for over 300 orphaned Tibetan children.
Come and join us for a slideshow, stories and snacks all while practicing the perfection of generosity to help children in need this winter. Please consider making a donation to provide warm coats to these beautiful children through paypal to http://tibetanqigongnv.org/ (select Support CTQNV-coats) or by check to CTQNV (put in the donation box at Manjushri Dharma Center).
TO DONATE CLICK HERE

The Power of Good Intentions
2016-11-05 04:15 - 05:15 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
“A son of the incomparable Shakyas said, ‘If intentions are good, the path and destination will be good, but if intentions are bad, the path and destination will be bad.’ Call up good intentions! That is my heart advice.” p.4 Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar
One of the most practical ways to apply Dharma to daily life is through the setting of good intentions and checking our intentions throughout the day. Are we wishing others well in this moment? Do we wish to do no harm, have no enemy, and hold compassion in this moment? The practice does not involve being hard on oneself, nor is it meant to control externalities. It is a gentle yet profound self-reflective practice. We can gradually and gently train our mind to hold positive intentions at all times, even in times of mental distress, which has immense benefits for both ourselves and others. Join us for this special teaching from Rinpoche on the Power of Good Intentions.
This teaching is part of a series given by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche based on his booklet “Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar.” It follows the Saturday meditation session (which runs from 10-11) and is appropriate for anyone interested in practical ways to apply Dharma teachings to busy western life. No registration required. Suggested donation of $10.00, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. We hope you join us!

Introduction to Ngöndro: The Kagyu Preliminary Practices Retreat
2016-10-22 02:00 - 2016-10-23 05:00 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
Our mind is often compared to a field, with the potential to bring forth a bountiful harvest of wisdom and compassion. For the seeds to grow as we listen to spiritual teachings and engage in meditation practice, the field needs to be properly prepared. Preliminary practices serve to purify negative karmic imprints, enrich our mind with positive potential, and empower our mental continuum with blessings. Engaging in the preliminary practices serves as an invaluable tool to deepen our practice. Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will present an overview introduction to the Kagyu preliminary practices known as Ngöndro, along with an oral transmission blessing. Participants are asked to commit to the full retreat in order to register. Please bring a dish to share for a “Luckypot” luncheon on Saturday. Consecutive interpretation will be provided by David Molk. We hope you join us for this weekend retreat!
Saturday & Sunday, October 22-23
9am-4pm Saturday | 9am-12pm Sunday
Location: Manjushri Dharma Center
Registration is requested

Suggested Donation: $50.00 for entire retreat, but no one turned away for lack of funds. Donations can be made via the MDC website, or in person upon arrival at retreat.
For more detailed information, visit the Ngöndro Retreat webpage.

This Precious Human Life
2016-10-08 04:15 - 05:15 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
From a Buddhist perspective, we have hit the jackpot by being born human. We have just enough suffering to make us long for a more stable happiness, and just enough freedoms and endowments to allow us to pursue spiritual transformation. By understanding the true rarity of our precious human life, we can begin to make each day, each hour worthwhile. Every single moment of our precious human life has great meaning. Join us for this teaching in which we learn to cease the day by understanding the immense good fortune we share as human beings.
Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can.” Quote from H.H. The Dalai Lama

This teaching is part of a series given by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche based on his booklet “Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar.” It follows the Saturday meditation session (which runs from 10-11) and is appropriate for anyone interested in practical ways to apply Dharma teachings to busy western life. No registration required. Suggested donation of $10.00, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. We hope you join us!

Buddhism 101
2016-08-13 04:30 - 05:30 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
What are the fundamentals of Buddhist beliefs and practice? What practices are offered at the Manjushri Dharma Center? After our regular weekly meditation class (Saturday, 10:00am-11:00am), we will enjoy a teaching on “Buddhism 101.” Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will talk about the core principals and practices of Buddhism, and will describe our weekly practices at the center. If you are new to Buddhism or new to the Manjushri Dharma Center, this teaching is for you! Event is free, but donations are welcome to support the center.

The Day of Peace (Part 2)
2016-08-06 12:00 - 14:00 | Lover’s Point Beach, 17th St and Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Peace Lantern Ceremony
7:00pm-9:00pm, Saturday, August 6th
Lover’s Point Cove
Ocean View Blvd & 17th Street, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950
Following the Four Noble Truths (See more info HERE) teaching, participants are encouraged to join the Peace Lantern Ceremony at Lover’s Point Cove in Pacific Grove. Rinpoche will offer prayers at the ceremony which is part of the Twelfth Annual Hiroshima-Nagasaki Remembrance Day. This beautiful and moving tradition honors those who perished in 1945 and reaffirms our commitment to world peace. Event is free. The Peace Lantern event is sponsored by several peace organizations in Monterey Co. and the Friends/Quakers of Monterey. Schedule includes:
7:00pm: Lantern making and Taiko drumming
7:45pm: Music and messages of hope and peace
8:15pm: Launching of the peace lanterns
Flyer (This looks great–thank you!)
A Note About Food: Participants in the “Day of Peace” may bring a trash-less “picnic dinner” to Lover’s Point Cove so we can enjoy a meal together while we also enjoy the Peace Lantern Event. There is also a “Snack Shack” at Lovers Point that sells veggie burgers, hamburgers, etc.

The Day of Peace
2016-08-06 10:00 - 11:30 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
From Inner Peace
Public Talk: Four Noble Truths
August 6th marks the Tibetan Buddhist holiday honoring the day that Buddha Shakyamuni first taught a path to profound inner peace, the Four Noble Truths. Join us to hear this deep wisdom presented by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, with consecutive interpretation provided by David Molk. Event is free, but donations are welcome to support the center.
To World Peace (See Details Here)
Peace Lantern Ceremony
7:00pm-9:00pm, Saturday, August 6th
Lover’s Point Cove
Ocean View Blvd & 17th Street, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950
Following the Four Noble Truths teaching, participants are encouraged to join the Peace Lantern Ceremony at Lover’s Point Cove in Pacific Grove. Rinpoche will offer prayers at the ceremony which is part of the Twelfth Annual Hiroshima-Nagasaki Remembrance Day. This beautiful and moving tradition honors those who perished in 1945 and reaffirms our commitment to world peace. Event is free. The Peace Lantern event is sponsored by several peace organizations in Monterey Co. and the Friends/Quakers of Monterey. Schedule includes:
7:00pm: Lantern making and Taiko drumming
7:45pm: Music and messages of hope and peace
8:15pm: Launching of the peace lanterns

A Note About Food: Participants in the “Day of Peace” may bring a trash-less “picnic dinner” to Lover’s Point Cove so we can enjoy a meal together while we also enjoy the Peace Lantern Event. There is also a “Snack Shack” at Lovers Point that sells veggie burgers, hamburgers, etc.
A Call for Volunteers: Volunteers are needed as we prepare to host this public talk. If you are able to post flyers ahead of the event, or would be able to join us from 11:30am-1:30pm on the Saturday of the event (August 6th, after meditation)…we will do some “center cherishing,” cleaning/weeding and setting up for the 5:00pm event. Please contact Rachel Christopherson by email at rachelMDC2016@gmail.com.
Thank you everyone!

The Dalai Lama's 81st Birthday
2016-07-06 13:00 - 13:45 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
This Wednesday marks the Dalai Lama’s 81st birthday. Rinpoche and the sangha will have a small kata offering ceremony to the Dalai Lama’s picture at the dharma center. The ceremony will take place after the Thargyen class at approximately 8 pm.

Thargyen Class
2016-06-22 19:00 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Rinpoche leads us in our continuing study of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation by the incomparable Gompopa. Consecutive Interpretation by David Molk. New students welcome anytime.

Amitabha Or Medicine Buddha Pratice
2016-06-20 12:30 - 13:30 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
Rinpoche leads us in Amitabha Buddha or Medicine Buddha Practice, a combination of teachings and chanting. Everyone is welcome. Prayer books and instruction will be provided.

Meditation Class
2016-04-30 03:00 - 16:00, 2016-04-23 03:00 - 16:00, 2016-04-16 03:00 - 04:00 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
Join us for a short talk followed by meditation. After we enjoy tea and a little sangha fellowship. Everyone is welcome!

Thargyen Class
2016-04-27 01:00 - 10:00, 2016-04-20 12:00 - 13:30 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
Rinpoche leads us in our continuing study of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation by the incomparable Gompopa. Translation by David Molk. New students welcome anytime.

Amitabha Buddha Practice
2016-04-25 11:30 - 13:00, 2016-04-18 11:30 - 13:00 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
Rinpoche will lead us in Amitabha Practice, a combination of teachings and chanting.

Personal Story Discussion Group
2016-04-22 12:00 - 13:00 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
Join our small discussion group for sangha members (new ones especially!) or anyone who would like to get together in a more informal environment to discuss our own personal journeys with our practice.

Medicine Buddha Practice
2016-04-11 11:30 - 13:00 | Villa Angelica Retreat Center, 27951 CA-1, Carmel, CA, 93923, United States
Rinpoche will lead us in Medicine Buddha Practice, a combination of teachings and chanting.

Thargyen Class
2015-08-19 19:00 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
