International Summer Festival 2025
Jul 25 - Aug 9, 2025
Buddha Green Tara Empowerment with Teachings on Advice From Atisha's Heart with Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong and Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
JUL 25 - AUG 9
How to be a Kadampa
Over two weeks, the Festival will emphasise teachings and meditations on Advice from Atisha's Heart from our two most senior Teachers. For the first time, all of Venerable Geshe-la's oral transmissions on the verses will be brought together, including his special advice on how to engage in retreat on this text. Through Venerable Geshe-la's encouragement and blessings Gen-la Dekyong and Gen-la Jampa will transmit a complete commentary to all the verses.
By keeping Atisha's Advice in our heart we can maintain a peaceful, happy mind, our human nature and good qualities will improve, we will show a good example in this troubled world and we will quickly attain great enlightenment. Kadampa Buddhists have an especially close connection with Buddha Tara because she appeared directly to Atisha, the founder of Kadampa Buddhism, and promised to care for all his future followers.
"Simply putting this Advice into practice we will naturally become a Bodhisattva, a holy compassionate being who is the object of everybody's love and respect."
Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche
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Venue
Yes you can sit on a chair! There are also other seating arrangements for those who like to sit on the floor in the traditional cross legged style.
Yes, you can attend just part of the course. Some classes are drop in but for longer courses our flexible booking system allows you to choose the specific days you wish to attend. Simply log into the booking system and select the days that best fit your schedule. If you have any further questions or need assistance with the booking process, feel free to contact reception.
Yes, absolutely! There will be ample opportunities for questions to be answered throughout the course. You’ll have the chance to engage with the teacher and interact with other people attending.
Yes. Please check the “Resources” section on this page. It contains links to the books covered in the course, as well as a podcast and YouTube channel for additional learning and insights.
No, there are no specific practices or rituals you need to be familiar with before attending. However, please note that there will be some short chanted prayers to start and conclude of some sessions. You can follow the words in the booklets that will be supplied. There is no obligation to sing, but it is very beneficial to follow the meaning of the words for a successful meditation practice.
The meals provided are vegetarian. You can choose gluten-free and/or vegan options when booking. If you have any allergies, please make sure to inform us in advance. A full menu with ingredients will be listed in the servery, please check if you are unsure.
Yes, we do have facilities for disabled people. This includes disabled parking, accommodation, bathrooms and access to the temple. If you are hard of hearing, please let us know so that we can supply you with headphones during the teaching. For any additional questions or specific needs, please contact reception.
No, our courses are presented in a way that is accessible to everyone, and no religious obligation is required.
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