Mondays, 6.30 – 8.30pm
Azelia Hall, Beckenham

The Foundation Programme (FP) is designed for students who have gained a basic understanding of Kadampa Buddhist practice and are interested in pursuing a formalised and committed study programme. Through regular teachings and meditation, systematic study, and group discussion, the Foundation Programme offers the same training followed by spiritual practitioners in an unbroken lineage dating back to Buddha Shakyamuni. In this way we can gain authentic experience of the Dharma while still maintaining our contemporary lifestyle. Warm friendships develop as students inspire each other, sharing insights and experiences of the spiritual path.

What is currently being studied​?

On Monday, 12th June (6.30pm) will begin studying and meditating on the book Universal Compassion, by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche.

By studying this book we will learn how to transform even the most difficult daily life experiences into opportunities for spiritual growth through developing and enhancing minds of universal love and compassion. We shall gain great confidence in meditation – from basic techniques for overcoming our everyday problems to practices leading to unsurpassed happiness and permanent inner peace.

What happens in a class?

Prior to class, students study an assigned portion of the text, usually a few pages, and memorize the essential points. The class begins with chanted prayers and guided meditation. The teacher then reads the assigned selection from the book while giving commentary to the text. The students then divide into pairs to discuss the material. The teacher and students conclude by deciding what to meditate on in the next class and how to practice during the coming week, followed by dedication prayers.

Interested in joining?

If you are interested in joining Foundation Programme we invite you to attend two free taster sessions. If you wish to attend two taster sessions please click on “Book Two Taster Sessions” above.

If you wish to continue after the taster sessions you need to enrol on the programme. Students enrol to study one section of the book – which lasts approximately 4 – 6 months. They should try their best to attend every class of Foundation Programme (Foundation Program is not a drop-in class and cannot be attended on a drop-in basis), and prepare for each class by reading and contemplating the essential points of the book Universal Compassion.

Fees for joining Foundation Programme

Students who join FP will require KMC London silver membership (£45 per month) for the duration of their study. Silver membership also includes free access to all KMC London regular day and evening drop-in classes, branch classes, half-day / full-day / whole weekend courses, events and retreats.

You will also need a copy of the book Universal. Copies can be purchased at the branch. If you have any questions please feel free to email epc@meditation.london.

Kelsang Lekmon is an experienced teacher in the New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) having taught extensively for over 30 years in the UK and the East Coast of the United States. She has been an ordained Buddhist nun for 28 years and is known for the clarity of her teachings and her warmth and kindhearted nature. She teaches with joy and humour making the teachings very relevant to our daily lives.

Azelia Hall, 258 Croydon Rd, Beckenham. BR3 4DA