In-Depth Study Program
About the Foundation Program
Sundays · 4:00 – 6:15 pm
The Foundation Program (FP) is designed for students who have gained a basic understanding of Kadampa Buddhist practice and are interested in pursuing a formalized and structured study of Buddhist texts.
Students to receive regular, in-depth teachings, and engage in systematic study and group discussion based on an assigned text. The Foundation Program offers the same training followed by spiritual practitioners in an unbroken lineage dating back to Buddha Shakyamuni.
It allows students to gain a deep understanding of Buddha’s teachings and incorporate them into our contemporary lifestyle. By studying in this program, 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. Warm friendships develop as students inspire each other, sharing insights and experiences of the spiritual path.
What are we Studying?
The Foundation Program is currently studying Universal Compassion, by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.
In this inspiring explanation of the popular Buddhist poem Training the Mind in Seven Points, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso reveals powerful and far-reaching methods for us to develop these altruistic states.
Ancient meditative techniques that have been tried and tested for centuries are brought alive and made relevant to our everyday experiences. Also included is a practical explanation of how we can transform our day-to-day problems—even the most demanding and difficult conditions—into opportunities for personal and spiritual development.
By pointing the way to an unchanging freedom and happiness, this immensely readable book challenges us to grow, and will have a remarkable impact on our life.
The Foundation Program requires enrollment and attendance every week. It is not a drop-in class. If you are interested in joining or have any questions, please contact our Foundation Program Monitor at FP@meditation-indianapolis.org.
Still not sure if you want to join? You are welcome to sit in on a class before committing to see if it’s for you.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR JOINING?
The only prerequisite to joining is a sincere wish to improve your own mind for the benefit of yourself and others, although a basic understanding of Buddhist teachings is encouraged.
This study program requires enrollment and you can join at any time. Please contact our Foundation Program Coordinator (FP@meditation-indianapolis.org) to learn more and determine if it is right for you.
Those who are interested, are welcome to attend two free trial sessions, at any point in time during the program. After joining, FP students are asked to become members at the Benefactor level or higher. (Discounts are available for those in need.)
CAN’T MAKE IT TO THE CENTER REGULARLY?
For those who cannot be at the Center regularly there are both streaming and correspondence options available. Please contact our Foundation Program Coordinator (FP@meditation-indianapolis.org) for more information.
INTERESTED IN EVEN MORE INFORMATION?
You might also wish to read a transcript of a talk by Venerable Geshe-la on the benefits of systematic study in Kadampa Buddhism entitled “Wishfulfilling Jewels for Dharma Practitioners” that you can access via: www.kadampa.org/buddhism/fulfilling-our- wishes
About the Resident Teacher
The Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Indianapolis is Buddhist monk Gen Kelsang Wangden.
Gen Wangden is known for his kind heart, joyful nature, and practical advice. He enjoys helping students of all abilities and interests understand and apply Buddhist lessons and cultivate inner peace.