Monday Night Chanted Prayers - Medicine Buddha
2024-11-11 18:30 - 20:00, 2025-01-27 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
On Monday we will practice the prayers of Medicine Buddha (Buddha of Infinite Healing), creating the causes for a world that is healed from illness and disease, both of the body and of the mind. You can find a link to the prayer text here: MedicineBuddhaPuja_༄༅།-།སྨན་བླའི་སྒྲུབས་ཐབས་བཞུགས་སོ།-།.pdf
Rinpoche wrote a very short but beautiful teaching on the practice of Medicine Buddha, which includes the visualization: Medicine Buddha Practice for Corona Virus from Khenpo Karten Rinpoche.
Additionally we typically recite a short Buddha Amitabha (the Buddha of Infinite Light) mantra: Om Ami Dewa Hri. Here is the text for Buddha Amitabha: The Recitation for Accomplishment of Sukhavati from the Sky Dharma Mind Terma.
Please join us as we wish for all beings to have health and peace of mind.
Monday night prayers are held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Saturday Morning Meditation
2024-11-16 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-12-28 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-01-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Meditation is a helpful way to relax the body and calm the mind, and it can help us connect to timeless, deep inner peace. Join us Saturday mornings as Rinpoche gives a brief teaching followed by silent meditation practice. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Saturday morning meditation is held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Monday Night Chanted Prayers--Chenrezig Practice with special guest Thay Kozen
2024-11-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Avalokiteshvara, or Chenrezig in Tibetan, is the Bodhisattva who embodies the love and compassion of all Buddhas. Chenrezig is an important deity in Tibet and considered the patron Bodhisattva of the Tibetan people. Chenrezig is also believed by Tibetans to be the actual progenitor of the Tibetan people. His Holiness the Dalai Lama and His Holiness the Karmapa are considered living Buddhas, emanations of Chenrezig. It is said that in Tibet even babies upon birth know the mantra OM MANI PADME HUM.

Tonight we will have a special guest, Thay Kozen of the Mount Adams Buddhist Temple in Trout Lake, Washington. Thay will lead us in a Metta practice (loving kindness). See the additional text below!
Chanted prayers are an important part of spiritual life, regardless of where you are at on the path. They allow us to still our minds, connect with the blessings of the Buddhas, and purify negative karma. With these prayers we transform ourselves and our world into pure beings and pure lands, free from suffering, and connect with the energies of love and compassion. Appropriate for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Prayer books provided (and shown on screen). Donations are not expected, but always welcome.
Monday night prayers are held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.
Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Texts:
Chenrezig Practice https://manjushridharmacenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ChenrezigPracticeText.pdf

Metta Sutra

Metta Practice:

May you be well;
May you be happy;
May you know love;
May you know peace.

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

*The word deity in Buddhist context is not the same as in the west. A deity may have many meanings, but one meaning is the timeless energies that are also within us, rather than all-knowing beings outside ourselves.

Happy Retreat Rinpoche!
2024-11-20 10:00 - 17:00 | CA
We are so happy that our dear Khenpo Karten Rinpoche is taking a few weeks away to go on retreat. Normally, a one-month retreat (or longer) is the goal each year for Rinpoche, but this year due to many circumstances, he has chosen a short retreat. He will be staying in Santa Cruz at the home of his dear friend Lama Lekshey. He will have all the food and provisions needed and will enjoy the time he needs for deep meditation and practice in solitude. We wish you well Rinpoche!
Rinpoche will return on Sunday, December 8, and we will not welcome him home this time with a kata ceremony. Instead, we will celebrate his freedom to come home at any time that works for him, and his wish to quietly return home.
Monday night prayers will return on December 9th with Amitabha practice, and Saturday morning meditation will return on December 14th.

No Saturday Meditation
2024-11-23 10:00 - 11:00 | CA
There will be no practice on Saturday, November 23rd as Rinpoche is on a brief retreat! All are encouraged to meditate and practice at home. Meditation practice will resume on December 14, 2024.
Tashi Delek!

No Monday Night Prayers
2024-11-25 18:30 - 20:00 | CA
There will be no practice on Monday, November 25th as Rinpoche is on a brief retreat! All are encouraged to meditate and practice at home. Monday night chanted prayers will resume on December 9, 2024.
Tashi Delek!

No Saturday Meditation
2024-11-30 10:00 - 11:00 | CA
There will be no practice on Saturday, November 30th as Rinpoche is on a brief retreat! All are encouraged to meditate and practice at home. Meditation practice will resume on December 14, 2024.
Tashi Delek!

No Monday Night Prayers
2024-12-02 18:30 - 20:00 | CA
There will be no practice on Monday, December 2nd as Rinpoche is on a brief retreat! All are encouraged to meditate and practice at home. Monday night chanted prayers will resume next week on December 9, 2024.
Tashi Delek!

No Saturday Meditation
2024-12-07 10:00 - 11:00 | CA
There will be no practice on Saturday, December 7th as Rinpoche is on a brief retreat! All are encouraged to meditate and practice at home. Meditation practice will resume on December 14, 2024.
Tashi Delek!

Rinpoche Returns
2024-12-08 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Welcome back Rinpoche! Khenpo La will return Sunday, December 8th, and he wishes to simply come home anonymously, we will honor that! Welcome home Dear Teacher!

Monday Night Chanted Prayers - Amitabha Practice
2024-12-09 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Buddha Amitabha (the Buddha of Infinite Light) is a main practice of Khenpo Karten Rinpoche and the Manjushri Dharma Center. Here is a link to the main text (in Tibetan, English, and Chinese): The Recitation for Accomplishment of Sukhavati from the Sky Dharma Mind Terma.

Chanted prayers are an important part of spiritual life, regardless of where you are at on the path. They allow us to still our minds, connect with the blessings of the Buddhas, and purify negative karma. With these prayers we transform ourselves and our world into pure beings and pure lands, free from suffering, and connect with the energies of love and compassion. Appropriate for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Prayer books provided/shown on screen. Donations are not expected, but always welcome

Monday night prayers are held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Saturday Morning Meditation
2024-12-14 10:00 - 11:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Rinpoche is back! This will be our first meditation session together in several weeks. Meditation is a helpful way to relax the body and calm the mind, and it can help us connect to timeless, deep inner peace. Join us Saturday mornings as Rinpoche gives a brief teaching followed by silent meditation practice. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Saturday morning meditation is held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Monday Night Chanted Prayers - Green Tara Practice
2024-12-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
The feminine embodiment of enlightened activity, Green Tara is the swift liberator, a compassionate and loving protector in times of distress and great danger. Through meditating on the form and mantra Arya Tara, and chanting the Praises to her 21 different manifestations, we receive the blessings to become inseparable from Tara herself, actualizing the potential to liberate all sentient beings from the suffering ocean of samsara. She is known as the Mother of all Buddhas, born from Chenrezig’s tear of compassion (in one of many origin stories). She will swiftly come to comfort and protect those who supplicate her, she gives protection from emotional and physical sufferings. In her hands she holds utpala flowers which symbolize power and pure compassionate intention.
“This is also my daily practice,” writes Rinpoche. “We will pray for overcoming fear and clearing of obstacles. We will recite the mantra “OM TARE TUTTARE TURE SOHA “. You can see me and recite the mantra at the same time so we can practice together for those who have recently died. Thank you and Tashi Delek.”
Prayers will be recited in both Tibetan and English.
Texts:

Main prayer text, courtesy of KTD Publications in Woodstock NY (for students only, please do not make or distribute printed copies): Green Tara Sadhana of Chokgyur Dechen Lingpa
Supplemental texts:

Concise Tara Prayer by Lama Gephel
GreenTara-Sevenfold Supplication by Drikung Kyobpa Jikten Sumgon

Description of the Tara practice above was written by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche. Image courtesy of Miles McBreen.
Monday night prayers are held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Saturday Morning Meditation
2024-12-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Winter solstice meditation! Meditation is a helpful way to relax the body and calm the mind, and it can help us connect to timeless, deep inner peace. Join us Saturday mornings as Rinpoche gives a brief teaching followed by silent meditation practice. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. At 4pm on this day, we will also meet at Lovers Point Beach to honor the cycle of nature with a winter solstice Blessing of the Waters, 4pm.
Saturday morning meditation is held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Winter Solstice Blessing of the Waters 2024
2024-12-21 16:00 - 17:00 | Lover’s Point Beach, 17th St and Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Winter Solstice Blessing of the Waters 2024
Saturday, December 21st, 2024
4:00pm to 5:00pm Pacific Standard Time
Lover’s Point Beach
17th St and Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA
December 21st, 2024 is the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. For many years now, at both summer and winter solstices, Khenpo Karten Rinpoche offers a Blessing of the Waters, by reciting two prayers that he composed, Propitiating the Devas of the Four Elements and the Prayer for World Peace. This year we will once again gather in community and send our good energy to the ocean, to all the waters of the world, and to all of nature and humanity. Attendees will be provided with candles to light as we celebrate the light of love and wisdom, which is not bound by time or seasons. Attendees are encouraged to bring flower petals to scatter as we send our good wishes to the ocean.
Can’t make this event, but wish to participate? Practitioners may download these prayers to recite at the beach, by a river, or wherever you choose outside in nature. Bring some flowers to offer and send your good energy and wishes for healing to the waters of the world, all the elements of nature, and all sentient beings. Additionally, here is an “instruction on how to practice” the Blessing of the Waters, composed by Rinpoche and Pema/Aaron with more information on how to conduct a “do-it-yourself” Blessing of the Waters. Instructions on Blessing the Waters
Prayer for Peace
Through roots of goodness of us all on this vast earth,
May all living creatures become full of
love and compassion,
So that all enjoy peace on earth!

Stop bad intentions, thoughts and deeds
of all those who terrorize others,
That all living beings on this earth
come together like one family!

May all be well, have long life and health
with bliss of mind, free of illusion.
May all mothers have oceans of bliss
of body, for now, and ultimately of mind.

May this lamp of wisdom love, oneness,
highest remedy to clear darkness,
Enter the hearts of all living beings,
so their perfect path be illumined!

Footnote to Prayer for Peace: In the name of all religions on earth, as I see and hear of increasingly many unwarranted harmful actions being enacted, thinking, with a joyful, universal aspiration, how wonderful it would be if all such activities ceased entirely. Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, on 2-4-2015, on Wednesday, His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s auspicious day, wrote this dedication prayer to be recited at the conclusion of other prayers, meditation, or practices.

Monday Night Chanted Prayers--Chenrezig Practice
2024-12-23 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Avalokiteshvara, or Chenrezig in Tibetan, is the Bodhisattva who embodies the love and compassion of all Buddhas. Chenrezig is an important deity in Tibet and considered the patron Bodhisattva of the Tibetan people. Chenrezig is also believed by Tibetans to be the actual progenitor of the Tibetan people. His Holiness the Dalai Lama and His Holiness the Karmapa are considered living Buddhas, emanations of Chenrezig. It is said that in Tibet even babies upon birth know the mantra OM MANI PADME HUM.
Chanted prayers are an important part of spiritual life, regardless of where you are at on the path. They allow us to still our minds, connect with the blessings of the Buddhas, and purify negative karma. With these prayers we transform ourselves and our world into pure beings and pure lands, free from suffering, and connect with the energies of love and compassion. Appropriate for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Prayer books provided. Donations are not expected, but always welcome.
Monday night prayers are held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.
Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Text:
https://manjushridharmacenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ChenrezigPracticeText.pdf

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

*The word deity in Buddhist context is not the same as in the west. A deity may have many meanings, but one meaning is the timeless energies that are also within us, rather than all-knowing beings outside ourselves.

Canceled--Monday Night Chanted Prayers
2024-12-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
There will be no chanted prayers on Monday, December 30th, 2024 but please do join on Tuesday, December 31st, 2024 at 6:30pm for our New Years Eve Vajrasattva practice. Happy new year everyone!

New Year's Eve Vajrasattva Purification Practice
2024-12-31 18:30 - 21:30 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Start the New Year of 2025 with a clean slate by purifying negative karma of body, speech and mind accumulated over the past year and in past lives through the powerful practice of Vajrasattva (Dorje Sempa).
This special event will consist of teachings by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche on the Vajrasattva practice, an explanation of the meaning of the mantra and on the four opponent powers (tob shi) that we perform to purify our negative actions. After a short break, we will then accumulate recitations of the Vajrasattva Mantra. After the Puja, MDC will celebrate the coming New Year with tea and treats. Please wear white clothing or adornments if you can (no worries if not), and feel free to bring some food or refreshments to welcome in the new year (again no pressure, just come! We will have plenty).
Link to texts: The Sadhana of Glorious Vajrasattva, a Terma Revelation of H.H. Jigme Phuntsok Rinpoche, and additional readings written by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, The Four Powers of Purification , A Brief Confession, Heartfelt Advice of Dharma Nectar ; What Makes a Meaningful New Year?
Vajrasatva New Years Eve practice will be held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this powerful practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Monday Night Chanted Prayers - Green Tara Practice
2025-01-06 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
The feminine embodiment of enlightened activity, Green Tara is the swift liberator, a compassionate and loving protector in times of distress and great danger. Through meditating on the form and mantra Arya Tara, and chanting the Praises to her 21 different manifestations, we receive the blessings to become inseparable from Tara herself, actualizing the potential to liberate all sentient beings from the suffering ocean of samsara. She is known as the Mother of all Buddhas, born from Chenrezig’s tear of compassion (in one of many origin stories). She will swiftly come to comfort and protect those who supplicate her, she gives protection from emotional and physical sufferings. In her hands she holds utpala flowers which symbolize power and pure compassionate intention.
“This is also my daily practice,” writes Rinpoche. “We will pray for overcoming fear and clearing of obstacles. We will recite the mantra “OM TARE TUTTARE TURE SOHA “. You can see me and recite the mantra at the same time so we can practice together for those who have recently died. Thank you and Tashi Delek.”
Prayers will be recited in both Tibetan and English.
Texts:

We hope to use a new text for 1/6/24, the same one we will use for our Green Tara empowerment. It is not yet scanned and posted, but will be added here as soon as possible.
Our usual main prayer text, courtesy of KTD Publications in Woodstock NY (for students only, please do not make or distribute printed copies): Green Tara Sadhana of Chokgyur Dechen Lingpa
Supplemental texts:

Concise Tara Prayer by Lama Gephel
GreenTara-Sevenfold Supplication by Drikung Kyobpa Jikten Sumgon

Description of the Tara practice above was written by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche. Image courtesy of Miles McBreen.
Monday night prayers are held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Refuge Ceremony January 2025
2025-01-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Taking refuge has a very profound meaning, and Buddhist practitioners take refuge regularly in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha–but there is also a very special refuge ceremony. In a refuge ceremony, you are formally becoming a Buddhist and creating a deep karmic link with the teacher. You commit yourself to the path of love and compassion and to awakening the non-dualistic freedom that already exists within you.
If any member of the community would like to take refuge with Rinpoche, he has chosen an auspicious date: Wednesday, January 8th, 2025 from 10-11am at the Dharma Center. Please contact him in person or by phone at 831-917-3969 to make arrangements. If that day does not work for you, alternative dates can be arranged.
Those who have already taken refuge may join the ceremony to renew their vows.
The meaning of taking refuge is very profound, and there are many layers. Here are a few resources explaining the meaning of the refuge ceremony in Buddhism:
https://www.samyeling.org/buddhism-and-meditation/teaching-archive-2/choje-akong-tulku-rinpoche/the-meaning-of-taking-refuge/
https://www.lionsroar.com/the-decision-to-become-a-buddhist/
Taking refuge does involve certain specific commitments. Here is a copy of the Refuge Vow Book Example that each person taking refuge with Rinpoche will receive. The date & your Dharma name will be added in the back.
Questions? Contact Rachel at rachelmdc2016@gmail.com.
Image: One of a Pair of Manuscript Covers from the Perfection of Wisdom Sutra (Ashtasahasrika Prajnaparamita Sutra); Original public domain image from Art Institute of Chicago.

New Year Retreat 2025 - Phowa Teaching, Transmission, & Green Tara Empowerment
2025-01-10 09:00 - 2025-01-12 17:00 | Wave Street Studios, 774 Wave Street, Monterey, CA, 93940, United States
New Year Retreat 2025: Phowa Teaching, Transmission, & Green Tara Empowerment
with Venerable Khenpo Karten Rinpoche
Friday through Sunday, January 10-12, 2025
Wave Street Studios
9:00am to 5:00pm Friday/Saturday, 9:00am to 3:30pm Sunday
In-Person Only (no Zoom option, will not be recorded)
Open to all who have taken refuge or who have the basic foundations of Buddhist teachings
Registration required, donations requested, but no one turned away for lack of funds
Suggested donation: 180.00 for all three days

Register Here

Can’t register online? No problem! Contact Rachel at rachelmdc2016@gmail.com or call 831-277-0529. We will get you signed up to attend!
About Phowa
The subject of the retreat is the profound and esoteric practice of Phowa, often translated as ‘transference of consciousness’. In Phowa practice, the consciousness of a person is transferred to enlightenment or a higher state of being, and is based on the Buddhist beliefs of righteous Buddha worlds where spiritual enlightenment is easy and fast and on the Tantric Buddhist concept of the psycho-physical human anatomy made up of energy channels, vital energies and flexible nature of consciousness. Phowa is often practiced or applied by spiritual people at the time of death. Please click this link for a brief explanation of the practice. Rinpoche received the Phowa lineage from Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche, who was well known for it’s practice. The text for this practice has been prepared by Rinpoche from the Karma Kagyu lineage, with translation by Jampa Tharchin.
About Transmission
For those who have not practiced the Amitabha or Phowa, a transmission of the texts will a part of the retreat, either as a separate oral transmission ceremony or by reciting together. It is important to note that Phowa practice is deeply connected to Amitabha practice. Please refer to Rinpoche’s writing: Seeds of Liberation: The Four Causes for Rebirth in Sukhavati, July 2024 (in Tibetan, Chinese, and English). Also refer to our main (western) Amitabha text: The Recitation for Accomplishment of Sukhavati from the Sky Dharma Mind Terma.
About the Green Tara Empowerment
This is the first time in more than 15 years that Rinpoche will offer an empowerment. Green Tara is the feminine embodiment of enlightened activity, she is known as the swift liberator, a compassionate and loving protector in times of distress and great danger. Rinpoche received his Green Tara empowerment first from Lama Gephel, then from Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche. This venerable lineage is now being extended to Rinpoche’s students. Students who receive the empowerment will have some commitments to keep, such as regularly practicing Green Tara. The empowerment will be offered on the first day of the retreat. More information about empowerments in general can be found here and here.
Empowerment commitments:
Rinpoche asks his students in receiving the Green Tara empowerment to practice her prayers once a month, or at least have that intention. We practice a Green Tara sadhana in-person and on Zoom each month at our center–attending that or another Dharma center’s practice, or practicing on your own will keep the commitment. Even if you can’t take that time, or don’t have a Dharma center, Rinpoche’s teacher and uncle, Lama Gephel, wrote a brief Tara practice that can be performed in minutes. He is making it very easy on us westerners!

Special Message from Rinpoche about Empowerment and Blessings

I have received a few messages from some of my students who have expressed concern regarding the upcoming empowerment at the New Year Retreat. For this teaching and transmission, my students should not worry. With this type of empowerment, there are not so many commitments, samaya, and tantric vows and connections between the Teacher and students. Thus, I want to briefly say something about this type of empowerment, called jenang (རྗེས་གནང་།).
The Green Tara empowerment which I will be giving at the retreat is referred to as jenang in Tibetan, meaning “subsequent permission”. With this empowerment, practitioners are given ‘permission’ from the Lama to practice, visualize, and chant mantras associated with the deity, etc. Though one can most definitely practice a deity without being given this empowerment, this je nang empowerment ensures that the practice is being properly rooted and practiced. At the Manjushri Dharma Center, we often practice Green Tara at the Monday Night Puja, so this will be beneficial for my students. Moreover, Green Tara is the deity associated with healing and removing obstacles, which will be good for my students. Students also can see this as the Lama’s blessing of body, speech, and mind for the Sangha and may enable you to do some practice. This is good to have for all Buddhist practitioners.
The second type of empowerment which I will not be giving is referred to as wang chen (དབང་ཆེན།), which is a full initiation into the Vajrayana path and also has many types and stages. This is much longer, much more elaborate, tantric empowerment, establishing deeper connections between the Lama and disciples and is associated with more serious vows and samaya. This type of initiation is something that I may consider for the future.
Written by Khenpo Karten Rinpoche with assistance from Karma Choeying (Tony) on 1-4-25

Retreat Schedule
8:30am: Venue will be open for you to arrive & get settled
Friday/Saturday
9:00am to 10:30am
10:40am to 12:00pm
2:00pm to 3:30pm
3:40pm to 5:00pm
Sunday
9:00am to 10:30am
10:40am to 12:00pm
2:00pm to 3:30pm
Prerequisites to Attend

Refuge with Rinpoche or another teacher, and the basic foundation of Buddhist teaching and practice.

Because of the nature of this teaching and transmission, Rinpoche has requested that students who attend the retreat are those who have taken refuge, have fundamental teachings of the Buddhist path, and who are Buddhist practitioners. Thus, this will not be an open-to-the-public event.

Commitment to all three days of the retreat

Because of the complex nature of this teaching, it is requested that students attend all three days, so the continuity of the teachings is unbroken. With understanding and compassion for any unforeseen circumstances that may cause disruption, we ask attendees to sign up with the intention to remain for all three days of the retreat.
Other Considerations

Special Retreat Commitment: As with most Buddhist retreats, there are some commitments asked of attendees for the retreat days. Rinpoche asked only that no alcohol or drugs be consumed. He did not state that participants need to be vegetarian, etc. , though participants can follow the retreat traditions they are familiar with.
Texts: texts will be provided during the retreat (Rinpoche and David have created a new text for this retreat that is from the Kagyu lineage)
In-person only: the teaching will not be available via live-stream nor will it be recorded
Food and personal comfort: there will be floor seating, floor cushions, and chairs available, but attendees should bring anything that would make them comfortable for the teaching; attendees should plan to bring their own food/beverages or purchase from nearby restaurants. There are many options for coffee/tea/food in the area around Wave Street studios.
Flowers for the altar: participants may bring flowers for the alter if they wish, but this is not to be considered a burden or requirement.

Donations & Registration

Sliding scale: Participants can make the suggested donation of $180.00 through the EventBrite registration, but if you cannot donate at this time, please do not feel any shame or hesitancy to attend. A minimum of $1.00 is required by the EventBrite system to complete the registration. All donations are tax deductible.
Additional Donations to Help Fund Others: When you register with EventBrite, you will have the opportunity to donate additional funds on behalf of those who cannot afford to give at this time. Please specify your wishes in the registration.
Dana: On the last day of the retreat, it is customary to offer Dana (a monetary gift of respect) for Khenpo Karten Rinpoche and for translator Jampa Tharchin (David Molk). Please bring cash and please put it in an envelope. For Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, we will also offer katas, a white ceremonial scarf–we will have katas and envelopes available at the retreat.
Other ways to donate: Participants can donate via PayPal, Venmo, by check or cash if preferred. Please visit the Manjushri Dharma Center donation page for details, or contact: manjushridharmacenter831@gmail.com (please be patient as this is volunteer staffed)
Other ways to register: Participants who cannot complete the EventBrite registration are asked to email manjushridharmacenter831@gmail.com (please be patient as this is volunteer staffed)

Retreat Location & Parking

Wave Street Studios is located at 774 Wave Street, Monterey, CA 93940, and the main entrance is accessible from the Recreation Trail.
For more than 20 years, Wave Street Studios has created a beautiful space for the community, supporting the arts, honoring history, demonstrating sustainable building and lifestyle practices, and celebrating cultural expressions of many kinds. They have created sacred space for weddings, meditation, yoga, healing, and prayers of many traditions. Thank you Wave Street Studios for hosting our retreat once again! Want to know more? About Wave Street Studios
Parking
Free parking on Ocean View Blvd. and walk up the recreation trail. There is also a garage on Foam and Prescott.

Questions
Please contact our volunteers at manjushridharmacenter831@gmail.com. We have no phone number to call, apologies–inquiries by email only.

The Lineage Gurus–Khenpo Karten Rinpoche’s Precious Teachers
Here are some photos and links to stories about Khenchen Karma Tseten, Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche, and Drupchen Karnor Rinpoche.

Mahamudra Teacher Khenchen Karma Tseten

Khenpo La’s Uncle, Lama Gemphel Rinpoche, Green Tara lineage

Venerable Japa Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche, Rinpoche’s heart teacher, Phowa and Green Tara lineage

Dzogchen Teacher Taritur

Mahamudra Teacher Second Milarepa Lama Kharnor Rinpoche

About the Venerable Khenpo Karten Rinpoche
Khenpo Karten Rinpoche is an accomplished teacher and practitioner of the Karma Kagyu Lineage and is also trained in the Nyingma Lineage of Buddhism. He was born in the beautiful mountains of the Himalayas of Tibet. At the age of twelve, he was ordained at Ja-pa monastery, where he began his formal education of reading, writing and ritual practice. At the age of fifteen having completed the basic studies, he furthered his studies in the Sutra and Tantric texts under the accomplished master Khenchen Jigme Phuntsok Rinpoche and Pema Tsewang Rinpoche for eight years. Subsequently Khenpo Karten Rinpoche went to the hermitage of anther accomplished teacher, Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche and completed five years of retreat under the great master. In the retreat he completed the practices of the Naropa’s six yoga, Mahamudra and many others. In recognition of his achievements, Sangye Tenzin Ringpoche bestowed upon him the title, Khenpo Karma Lekshe Tharchin in 1994.
In 1996, he left Tibet and traveled to Dharamsala, India to meet His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Upon His Holiness’ advice, he spent another two years doing retreat. H.H Dalai Lama also recognizing his achievement, bestowed upon him the title Khenpo Rinpoche. After his retreat, Khenpo Karten Rinpoche was requested by H.E Tai Situ Rinpoche to go to the monastery of Venerable Tsoknyi Rinpoche, to teach the young monks there.
Khenpo Karten arrived in the United States in 2008, and taught in the Monterey Bay area for the first time in September of that year. After meeting a group of prospective students and seeing the hills of Big Sur which remind him of Tibet, he returned in 2009 to make the Monterey Bay his permanent home. Since then, Rinpoche has established the Manjushri Dharma Center (MDC) in Pacific Grove, California, which has become his main teaching location and his home residence. With unflinching faith in the precious Buddha Dharma, Khenpo Karten Rinpoche, now a U.S. citizen, bestows sacred teachings to thousands of people all over the world, with weekly teachings and events.

About David Molk aka Jampa Tharchin, esteemed Translator, Interpreter, and Author
David Molk studied Tibetan language at Venerable Geshe Rabten’s Institute for Higher Tibetan Studies in Mont-Pèlerin, Switzerland. Since 1987 he has interpreted and translated for many Tibetan lamas. David will be joining us in-person.
Learn more about David’s translated books: David Molk (shambhala.com)

Image used in this announcement: Amitabha in Sukhavati Paradise.

No Saturday Morning Meditation
2025-01-11 10:00 - 11:00 | CA
There will be no meditation session at the Manjushri Dharma Center on Saturday, January 11th, due to our retreat. Even if you cannot attend the retreat, meditation at home, on the beach, wherever you are is so important! Please keep up your daily practice. We will return to our group meditation (so powerful to meditate all together with Rinpoche) on Saturday, January 18th.

Canceled: Monday Night Chanted Prayers - No Amitabha Practice
2025-01-13 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
After the weekend retreat, Rinpoche is feeling tired and needs a little rest. There will be no chanted prayer practice on Monday, January 13th, but Saturday morning meditation is ON, and we will resume chanted prayers again next week.

Saturday Morning Meditation
2025-01-18 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-01-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Meditation is a helpful way to relax the body and calm the mind, and it can help us connect to timeless, deep inner peace. Join us Saturday mornings as Rinpoche gives a brief teaching followed by silent meditation practice. After meditation, enjoy some tea with Rinpoche and talking together. A donation of $10.00 per class is requested, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Saturday morning meditation is held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom.

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

Garden Volunteer Day
2025-01-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Calling all volunteers! We are hosting “Garden Volunteer Day #4: A Day of Trimming” 🙂 Many hands make light work and we will focus on trimming the bushes and flowers so they can spring back in the spring. Our last garden volunteer day was in October (can you believe it?) and the Mountain of Mulch is keeping the weeds down and helping the soil to rest. Thanks to all volunteers of the past, present, and future! If you can lend even 15 minutes (or an hour, or two) after meditation on Saturday, January 18, 2025, you will make a monk happy!
We will supply: coffee/tea/goodies and a few garden tools
You should supply: your own garden gloves, tools you like, etc.
Many thanks and hope to see you there!
Questions? Contact Rachel at rachelichristo@gmail.com or 831-277-0529

Monday Night Chanted Prayers--Chenrezig Practice
2025-01-20 18:30 - 20:00 | Manjushri Dharma Center, 724 Forest Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Avalokiteshvara, or Chenrezig in Tibetan, is the Bodhisattva who embodies the love and compassion of all Buddhas. Chenrezig is an important deity* in Tibet and considered the patron Bodhisattva of the Tibetan people. Chenrezig is also believed by Tibetans to be the actual progenitor of the Tibetan people. His Holiness the Dalai Lama and His Holiness the Karmapa are considered living Buddhas, emanations of Chenrezig. It is said that in Tibet even babies upon birth know the mantra OM MANI PADME HUM.
Chanted prayers are an important part of spiritual life, regardless of where you are at on the path. They allow us to still our minds, connect with the blessings of the Buddhas, and purify negative karma. With these prayers we transform ourselves and our world into pure beings and pure lands, free from suffering, and connect with the energies of love and compassion. Appropriate for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Prayer books provided. Donations are not expected, but always welcome.
Monday night prayers are held both in-person at the Dharma Center and virtually on Zoom. Monday, January 20th is also Martin Luther King Jr. Day–what better way to honor his legacy of peace than by practicing the path of love and compassion. Peace in our hearts. Peace on earth!

Please do join us for this profound practice. Tashi Delek!

Text:
https://manjushridharmacenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/ChenrezigPracticeText.pdf

Zoom Link to Join:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86274306749?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US (San Jose)
+16694449171,,86274306749#,,,,*[REDACTED]# US

Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 669 444 9171 US
+1 719 359 4580 US
+1 253 205 0468 US
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 564 217 2000 US
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 646 931 3860 US
+1 689 278 1000 US
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 305 224 1968 US
+1 309 205 3325 US
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 360 209 5623 US
+1 386 347 5053 US
+1 507 473 4847 US
Meeting ID: 862 7430 6749
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdVGgCWTHU

*The word deity in Buddhist context is not the same as in the west. A deity may have many meanings, but one meaning is the timeless energies that are also within us, rather than all-knowing beings outside ourselves.
