Buddhas manifest in many different aspects in order to benefit living beings. To help living beings overcome their obstacles and gather the necessary outer and inner conditions for their spiritual practice, they manifest as a Dharma Protector.
Dorje Shugden is the special Dharma Protector of our Kadampa Buddhist tradition. For us, he is the same nature as the Wisdom Buddha, Je Tsongkhapa, the founder of our lineage. By relying on him we receive special blessings and protection that enable us to progress swiftly along the spiritual path. Venerable Geshe Kelsang has said that he owes all his spiritual success to the blessings of Dorje Shugden.
The empowerment is a blissful guided meditation in which we develop a deep connection with this Buddha and during which we receive powerful blessings that will enable us to quickly actualize our own potential for Enlightenment.
During the commentary, Gen Chogden will explain how we can rely upon Dorje Shugden in our daily life and practice. By coming under the care of this compassionate enlightened Dharma Protector, we feel we have a powerful friend and spiritual ally guiding and protecting us in all things. In particular the practice of Dorje Shugden gives us a special skill in transforming obstacles into our spiritual training.
Everyone welcome!
To Register: At this point, please register when you arrive! Please arrive by 9:45am at latest.
Cost: Whole weekend $65 ($60 students, seniors 62+, and unemployed, and early registration by Sep 28th).
Kids 4-12 $10, Kids 13-17 $25.
Saturday Only $55 ($50 students, seniors 62+, and unemployed, and early registration by Sep 28th).
Free for Benefactor level members. Includes Saturday lunch.
Schedule:
Saturday
Empowerment: 10am - 1pm (note: please arrive by 9:45am)
Group Picture: 1-1:15pm
Lunch
Commentary: 3-4:30 pm
Sunday
Retreat Session 1: 1:30 - 2:45pm
Retreat Session 2: 3:15pm -4:30pm
Q&A: 4:30 - 4:45pm
About the Teacher:
Gen Kelsang Chogden is a Buddhist nun and Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center Maryland.
Gen Chogden has been practicing Kadampa Buddhism since 1998 under Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, who gave her the title “Gen” indicating that she is a senior ordained teacher of the Kadampa Tradition.
Gen Chogden is well-loved for her warmth, kindness, and wisdom, which have come from her sincere and heartfelt practice of Kadam Dharma over many years.
Her teachings are always practical and easy to apply to everyday life. Through her gentle and joyful approach and her peaceful example, she has helped many people find true happiness in their hearts.