Manjushri Dharma Center

Saturday Morning Meditation
2018-02-10 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-02-03 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-01-27 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-01-20 10:00 - 11:00, 2018-01-13 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Private Residence, CA, United States
Join us on Saturday mornings for meditation practice. In Rinpoche’s absence, meditation class will be student-led, with a brief reading from Rinpoche’s “Meditation 101” or brief video shown, followed by silent meditation. We will delight our teacher by putting his teachings into practice as we learn to consciously relax our bodies, calm our minds, and ultimately experience our own minds directly, naturally, and blissfully. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-02-08 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153) and presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club translation is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the book. Using this simpler translation and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings, January 4th to March 22, 2018 as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, January 25: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2018-02-05 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-29 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-22 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-15 18:30 - 20:00, 2018-01-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Chanted prayers are an important part of spiritual life. They allow us to still our minds, connect with the blessings of the Buddhas, and purify negative karma. Join us for student-led chanted prayers of Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light, or Chenrezig/Avalokiteshvara Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Compassion. With these prayers we transform ourselves and our world into pure beings and pure lands, free from suffering. Appropriate for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Prayer books provided. Chanted prayers are always free of charge. Donations are not expected, but always welcome.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-02-01 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, also known as the Thargyen, was originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), and presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club commentary is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the Thargyen. Using this simpler commentary and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation!
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, January 25: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

Wednesday Special Lunar Eclipse Prayers
2018-01-31 19:00 - 20:30 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Wednesday, January 31st is a very special day: a blue moon (second full moon in month), a super moon (closest to earth this year) and a lunar eclipse (starts at roughly 3am and reaches maximum roughly 5:30am). We learned from Rinpoche that eclipse days and special astronomical events such as this are energetically and spiritually significant. Wednesday should be considered a “merit multiplier day,” meaning that our intentions and actions are amplified by countless millions, so practitioners are encouraged to set positive intentions and to act in accordance with love and compassion with special focus on this day. Aaron Joseph (Pema Tsultrim) will lead us in the prayers of Avalokiteshvara/Chenrezig, the Buddha of Infinite Compassion, wishing freedom from suffering for all sentient beings. In addition, we will recite a special prayer called the Prayer of Kuntuzangpo — a famous Dzogchen aspiration prayer to be recited especially during a solar or lunar eclipse, or at the solstices. Join us for this very meritorious night! Free of charge, but donations are welcome.
More about the special prayers: the Prayer of Kuntuzangpo (Tib. ཀུན་བཟང་སྨོན་ལམ་, Kunzang Mönlam) — is a famous Dzogchen aspiration prayer from the Gongpa Zangthal. It is to be recited especially during a solar or lunar eclipse, an earthquake or at the solstices. This aspiration prayer comes from the Dzogchen tantra called the Tantra of the Great Perfection which Shows the Penetrating Wisdom of Samantabhadra. In Tibetan, the short title of this tantra is Gongpa Zangthal Gyi Gyü, which means “The Tantra of Penetrating Wisdom” or “The Tantra of Transcendent Intention.”
Read the full text: Prayer of Kuntuzangpo
More about viewing the lunar eclipse in the Monterey area: https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/usa/monterey

Annual January All-Sangha Meeting
2018-01-25 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Note: On Thursday, January 25th, a small group gathered to hear about the year past, nominate and elect the new MDC Board, and dream about the year to come. Click here for the Agenda for that evening. Thank you to all who were present! Welcome new Board Members! We will arrange a first meeting of the new board, then seek to share more information with the community.
Background info: Every year in January, the spiritual community of the Manjushri Dharma Center comes together to reflect on the year past, envision the year ahead, and elect new Board Members. Board Members are volunteers who serve for one or two years, attending to the day-to-day activities at the center. Join us for popcorn and snacks as we hear from current Board Members with a brief overview of the current state of center and goals for the new year. We will then move to officially elect the new Board. Nominees for the 2018 volunteer Board include:

Deirdre Means Acting President (Jan-Mar) and Permanent President: We will nominate an acting President when the first meeting of the new board convenes. We hope to nominate a permanent president after Rinpoche’s return.
Diana Slattery: Facilities Director/Co-Secretary (writer for web and newsletter): she will continue her amazing efforts with MDC facilities, and she will add the responsibility of writing the content and selecting images for the weekly newsletter and website.
Ashley Gamble: Website and Newsletter Facilitator: She will take the content that Diana gives her, and post to website, send out newsletter, and maintain the newsletter list. She will not be an official board member, but a regular volunteer.
Foster Smith: Secretary: will take board meeting minutes, keep all minutes and important documents for MDC, check phone and support email once per week, and promote events to public outlets as needed.
Cindy Lathrop: No official title-she will attend monthly Board meetings, and help out as she can.
Pam Krone: Acting Treasurer (Jan-Mar)–paying bills, depositing donations, attending board meetings to give general financial picture.
Shayna Morse: Treasurer (April onwards): will take over Pam’s duties in April once she and her spouse are resettled in the area.
Rachel Christopherson: Acting Co-Secretary (Jan-Mar): she’ll continue with website/newsletter duties through March as Diana is on retreat, and generally help with the transition to the new board.
Cate Anderson: Event/Volunteer Coordinator (temporary): point person for events, making sure volunteers are lined up as needed.

Not sure if you are a Manjushri Dharma Center member? Members are people who regularly attend or regularly contribute to Manjushri Dharma Center. Contact Rachel Christopherson (rachelmdc2016@gmail.com) to make sure you are on the official member list! Members receive special messages from Rinpoche with prayer requests or general info, and members vote each year for the new Board.

Dharma Etiquette: Inside the Shrine-Room
2018-01-20 11:15 - 12:30 | Private Residence, CA, United States
At Buddhist temples or dharma center, there are specific ways of understanding and showing respect for the sacred. For many new students, the experience is at once beautiful and confusing, even overwhelming. This is especially true in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, with its elaborate rituals, chants, and imagery. While some quickly dismiss this as Asian custom or cultural trapping, irrelevant to Buddhists in the modern West, “dharma etiquette” and Vajrayana iconography are actually important aspects of the path, with special meaning and purpose that point to the essence of the dharma itself. Understanding these details deepens our practice and appreciation of the precious teachings of Buddha. MDC sangha member Aaron Joseph (Pema Tsultrim) will offer a series of classes that provide a “guided tour” of our dharma center. Focusing on the “what” and “why” of etiquette and symbolism. The classes are for those new to Buddhism, as well as practitioners who are less familiar with the Tibetan system. Join us on Saturdays after meditation for this special series.
1) Jan 20 – Dharma Etiquette # 1 ~ Inside the Shrine-Room/Temple: An introduction to common protocols in a Tibetan Buddhist center, what they represent, and how they are important aids to spiritual practice.
2) Feb 3 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 1 ~ The Shrine: A basic overview of the arrangement and meaning of offerings and other objects commonly found on a Tibetan shrine.
3) Feb 17 – Understanding Tibetan Buddhist Symbolism # 2 ~ Thangkas and Statues: A general explanation of the symbolism of Yidams (meditational deities), with special attention to those seen in the beautiful collection of thangkas (Vajrayana scroll paintings) and statues at MDC.
4) Mar 3 – Dharma Etiquette # 2 ~ Relating to the Spiritual Teacher: The topics of the first three classes lead to an understanding of how to relate to our spiritual teacher (Tib. “lama,” Skt. “guru”) and why the teacher-disciple relationship is so central to our tradition.
About Aaron: Aaron began practicing Buddhism in 2000. While earning his BA in Religious Studies at UC Santa Barbara, he studied various traditions of Buddhism, Tibetan and Sanskrit language, and met his first Tibetan lamas. A former monk, he is fortunate to have spent several years living very close to his teachers, both in dharma centers in California and a monastery in India. He occasionally serves as an organizer, teacher of children, and chopen (shrine attendant) for Tibetan Buddhist retreats.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-01-11 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club translation is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the book. Using this simpler translation and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings, January 4th to March 22, 2018 as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 18: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, January 25th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend

Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta

Thursday, March 29nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Note: Rinpoche returns on March 30th, and we will ask his permission to continue our book club on Thursdays at the Center.
Thursday, April 5th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics

Thursday, April 12th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, April 19th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence

Thursday, April 26th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, May 3rd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, May 10: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths

Thursday, May 17th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, May 24th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood

Thursday, May 31st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

Saturday Morning Meditation
2018-01-06 10:00 - 11:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Join us on Saturday mornings for meditation practice. In Rinpoche’s absence, meditation class will be student led, with a brief reading from Rinpoche’s “Meditation 101” or brief video shown, followed by silent meditation. We will delight our teacher by putting his teachings into practice as we learn to consciously relax our bodies, calm our minds, and ultimately experience our own minds directly, naturally, and blissfully. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Thursday Evening Thargyen Book Club
2018-01-04 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, originally composed by Ven. Gampopa (1079-1153), presents in one text all of Buddha’s 84,000 teachings. It is a kind step-by-step outline of the path to enlightenment, and a primary text in the Kagyu tradition. The 2018 book club translation is a teaching by Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, given over four months specifically for a western audience. The language is simple and the concepts are clearly presented, though not as detailed as our initial study of the book. Using this simpler translation and discussing how to put the teachings into practice in daily life, we will be well-prepared to continue our study once Khenpo Karten Rinpoche returns to teach his beautiful 80-verse summary of this seminal work. Details on the book club text and an outline of topics is below. Even if you cannot read the chapters ahead, the discussion of each topic will help us to better understand the path of Dharma. Join us on Thursday evenings, January 4th to March 22, 2018 as we discuss the Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
Book Club Book Details:
Jewel Ornament of Liberation, commentary by: Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche, ISBN: 1-877294-27-6
Originally published in 2003, updated 2014, Namo Buddha Publications and Zhyisil Chokyi Ghatsal Trust Publications.

Available on Amazon (2014 update, white cover) for roughly 30.00:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/8120836987/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Available from Namse Bangdzo Bookstore (2003 version, gold cover) for roughly 40.00
https://www.namsebangdzo.com/Je_Gampopa_s_The_Jewel_Ornament_of_Liberation_p/12086.htm

Discussion Topics:
Thursday, January 4th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 1: Buddha Nature
Chapter 2: Precious Human Life

Thursday, January 11th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 3: The Spiritual Friend
Chapter 4: Instructions on Impermanence

Thursday, January 18: No book club due to All-Sangha Meeting
Thursday, January 25th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 5: The Suffering of Samsara
Chapter 6: Karma and Its Results

Thursday, February 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 7: Loving-kindness & Compassion
Chapter 8: Refuge & Precepts

Thursday, February 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 9: Cultivation of Bodhichitta
Chapter 10: Training in Aspiring Bodhichitta

Thursday, February 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 11: Training in Action Bodhichitta
Chapter 12: The Perfection of Generosity

Thursday, February 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 13: The Perfection of Moral Ethics
Chapter 14: The Perfection of Patience

Thursday, March 1st: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 15: The Perfection of Diligence
Chapter 16: The Perfection of Meditative Concentration

Thursday, March 8th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 17: The Perfection of Wisdom-Awareness

Thursday, March 15th: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 18: The Aspects of the Five Paths
Chapter 19: The Levels of the Path

Thursday, March 22nd: 6:30-8:00pm, Manjushri Dharma Center

Chapter 20: Perfect Buddhahood
Chapter 21: Activities of the Buddha

No Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2018-01-01 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Typically, Rinpoche leads chanted prayers in Tibetan and English of Amitabha Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Light), but occasionally also Avalokiteshvara Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Compassion) or Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing). We will not meet on Jan.1, but then we will resume again with student-led chanted prayers. We imagine a world transformed, purified, and at peace. Beginners to advanced practitioners are welcome, prayer books are provided. Free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Saturday Morning Meditation
2017-12-30 10:00 - 11:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Meditation is a helpful way to relax the body and calm the mind. Join us Saturday mornings for a brief teaching followed by silent meditation practice. Our teacher Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will be away through March, but meditation class will be student led. It will delight Rinpoche that we continue to meet and support each other in our meditation practice. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

No Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2017-12-25 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Typically, Rinpoche leads chanted prayers in Tibetan and English of Amitabha Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Light), but occasionally also Avalokiteshvara Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Compassion) or Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing). Tonight it is a holiday, and he is busily packing for his trip to India tomorrow. We will not meet tonight (Dec.25th) or next week (Dec.31), but then we will resume again with student-led chanted prayers. We imagine a world transformed, purified, and at peace. Beginners to advanced practitioners are welcome, prayer books are provided. Free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Heart Transmission of Rinpoche's Jewel Ornament of Liberation Teaching
2017-12-23 11:15 - 12:30 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Khenpo Karten Rinpoche has written a beautiful 80 verse teaching on the Jewel Ornament of Liberation, translated into English by Jampa Tharchin in early November. As Rinpoche states in his colophon, it was written: “so that future disciples could know how to put all of the Jewel Ornament of Liberation into practice, day and night, in daily life…” Please join us for a heart transmission of his teaching after meditation class on Saturday, December 23. Rinpoche will recite the verses in his native Tibetan from his heart with special intention, and listeners will receive it with special intention. We will also recite Rinpoche’s writing, “Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar.” If you can’t make it on this busy holiday weekend, not to worry, Rinpoche will offer a second heart transmission when he returns from his trip to India along with further classes and instruction.

Blessing of the Waters--Winter Solstice 2017
2017-12-21 16:00 - 17:00 | Lover’s Point Beach, 17th St and Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Notice for Event: Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will offer a Water Blessing Ceremony on the occasion of the Winter Solstice, Thursday December 21, 2017, from 4:00pm to 5:00pm 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 to welcome back 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 hope you can make it!
Summary of Event: It was a beautiful Pacific Grove winter day on the 21st, and about 40 people gathered to help welcome back that light at the solstice, and pray for peace. Thank you to all who participated!
Photos Courtesy of Bill Cox Photography (Photos below can be purchased/printed at https://billcoxphotography.smugmug.com):

U.S. Citizenship Party
2017-12-16 17:30 - 19:30 | Private Residence, CA, United States
On Saturday, December 16th at 5:30pm the community is invited to gather at the Manjushri Dharma Center (724 Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950) to celebrate together. This is a “Lucky Pot” (pot-luck) party, so if possible, please bring a main dish, side dish, snack, fruit, or dessert. Flowers, candles, and offerings for Rinpoche are also welcome. Volunteers will provide plates, bowls, cutlery, serving utensils, lemon-mint water, tea and coffee. A generous volunteer will bring a small American flag cake. No RSVP is needed for this party, but if you would like to ask questions, make suggestions, or coordinate Lucky Pot offerings, you may contact Rachel C (rachelMDC2016@gmail.com).

All Sangha Meeting
2017-12-16 11:15 - 12:30 | Private Residence, CA, United States
The Sangha is requested to attend a short meeting after meditation on Saturday, December 16 to share ideas and discuss the future of the Manjushri Dharma Center. As we look to a new year with new board members, we would like to brainstorm on ideas for future classes, ways to improve our services, and answer your questions about open board member positions. We hope you can attend!

Naturalization Oath Celebration
2017-11-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Ambrosia India Bistro, 565 Abrego Street, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
On Tuesday, November 28th at 12:45pm at the Campbell Heritage Theater, Khenpo Karten Rinpoche will participate in the Naturalization Oath Ceremony, the final important step in his becoming a U.S.Citizen. We learned that only a small group (6 people) can join the Naturalization Oath Ceremony, but the larger Sangha is invited to celebrate in two main ways:

Join a Celebratory U.S. Citizenship Dinner, Tuesday, November 28th at 7:30pm at Ambrosia India Bistro in Downtown Monterey

On the evening of the Naturalization Oath Ceremony, the community is invited to gather at Ambrosia India Bistro (565 Abrego St, Monterey, CA 93940) to celebrate this joyful occasion. Ambrosia offers a wide variety including vegan/gluten free options, and is quite affordable. We will “go Dutch,” spitting the final bill equally between all attendees (cash or credit cards can be used). Please RSVP to Rachel C (rachelMDC2016@gmail.com) to help us finalize the numbers for the restaurant.

Join a Celebratory U.S. Citizenship Party, Saturday, December 16th at 5:30pm at the Manjushri Dharma Center

On Saturday, December 16th at 5:30pm the community is invited to gather at the Manjushri Dharma Center (724 Forest Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950) to celebrate together. This is a “Lucky Pot” (pot-luck) party, so if possible, please bring a main dish, side dish, snack, fruit, or dessert. Flowers, candles, and offerings for Rinpoche are also welcome. Volunteers will provide plates, bowls, cutlery, serving utensils, lemon-mint water, tea and coffee. A generous volunteer will bring a small American flag cake. No RSVP is needed for this party, but if you would like to ask questions, make suggestions, or coordinate Lucky Pot offerings, you may contact Rachel C (rachelMDC2016@gmail.com).

If neither of those dates work for you to celebrate, a third option is to come the Manjushri Dharma Center at 10am on the morning of Tuesday, November 28th, to see off Rinpoche and the small group of students. We hope to see you at the celebrations!

Lhabab Duchen 2017
2017-11-10 18:30 - 20:30 | 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 Friday, November 10th in 2017)
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 recite the prayers of Buddha Shakyamuni (depicted above) and practice Guru Yoga, reciting prayers for Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche (shown left), the root guru of Khenpo Karten Rinpoche. Rinpoche will provide us with copies of the prayers and guide us in this ceremony. Donations are welcome, but there is no fee for this practice. We hope to see you there!
Source for above information: Wikipedia

Photo of Altar and Texts from Ceremony:

Calling the Guru from Afar
Shakyamuni Prayer
Praise of 12 great deeds
#.Final.Prayer to Japa Sangye Tenzin

Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2017-10-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Chanted prayers are an important component of training in spiritual life. They help us to still our mind, connect with the Buddhas and receive blessings. Join us on Monday evenings as Rinpoche leads us in chanted prayers recited in Tibetan and English. Prayers are typically those of Amitabha Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Light), but occasionally also Avalokiteshvara Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Compassion) or Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing). We imagine a world transformed, purified, and at peace. Beginners to advanced practitioners are welcome, prayer books are provided. Free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Saturday Morning Meditation
2017-10-28 10:00 - 11:00 | Private Residence, CA, United States
Meditation is a helpful way to relax the body and calm the mind. Join us Saturday mornings as Rinpoche gives a brief teaching followed by silent meditation practice. Afterwards, we enjoy tea together. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.
