Theme Day on Refuge and the Lay Vows

with Ven. Losang Gendun

This day is a precious opportunity to renew or to receive the Refuge and/or Lay Vows from Ven. Gendun. And not only that: Ven. Gendun will offer an extensive commentary on the meaning of the actual vows and how to cultivate them in daily life.

This precious gift of vows comes down to us from the time of the Buddha, through a lineage of numerous accomplished masters. If we cultivate these vows in our mind streams, on the basis of proper understanding of their vast meaning and practice, we'll be able to find refuge in ourselves and share that with others.

Ven. Gendun will first offer teachings and explanations on the vows and in the afternoon he will bestow the vows in a Refuge ceremony, for those who would like to receive them from him. If you're interested in knowing more about the vows, but you don't feel ready to take them on, you're welcome to only come for the teachings.

On this day, we will also celebrate the joyful occasion of Ven. Genduns ordination anniversary!

If it's your first time to take Refuge, or if you'd like to receive more information beforehand, please send us an email on amsterdam@maitreya.nl.

For a personal interview with Ven. Gendun, please listen to the Wisdom Podcast.

Donation

Dāna (generosity) is one of the cornerstones of the Buddhist path. By virtue of their generosity, the Buddha and the ordained sangha offer us the teachings, and in exchange, the lay community supports Dharma centers and the monastic community. This interdependence is essential for us to share the Dharma and continue our work to benefit all sentient beings. With your donation we support our teachers in their cost of living and we uphold our dharma center, which is managed entirely by volunteers.

The suggested donation for this day is € 35, coffee and tea included. For students and people with low income, the suggested donation is €25. Please send an email to amsterdam@maitreya.nl if you'd like to make use of this option.

Dates and times: Sunday March 1: 10.00 - 17.00 hrs.

We'll have a shared potluck lunch this day. Please bring easy (vegetarian / vegan) food items to share, that don't need extra preparation. We won't have space for that in our small kitchen.

The donation amount should never be an obstacle to your access to the Dharma! Please contact us if it might be an obstacle for you.