Foundation Program

Foundation Program
Modern Buddhism and Meditation Study Program in Albuquerque

With Resident Teacher Gen Kelsang Khyenwang
Sundays | 2:00 - 4:00pm

We are currently studying Universal Compassion by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. We will begin Foundation Program again in February. If you are interested in this structured study program, please see the contact information below.

What is Foundation Program?

THE FOUNDATION PROGRAM (FP) gives you the opportunity to engage in a structured study and meditation program on the essential teachings of the Buddhist spiritual path. FP is a practical method to improve our good heart, wisdom, and inner peace within a supportive community of fellow students.

Everyone can join and experience great benefits from being a part of this regular study program. The program is based on the study of six Kadampa Buddhist texts written by the Founder of the New Kadampa Tradition, Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso and is taught by Gen Kelsang Khyenwang.

The classes include:
• Guided meditations and prayers
• Commentary to the text by the teacher
• Paired and group discussion
• Question & answer opportunities
• The company of like-minded people

Enrollment for this program is required.

Program Structure

All the study programs are based on a clear structure that includes guided meditation, teaching, student commitments, discussion, and teacher support. One of the main benefits for everyone is the building of a spiritual community within the class, which in turn fosters meaningful class discussion as well as mutual support among the class members.

Students sign up to study a book or part of a book, agree to attend every class, learn the material, and to take a test at the conclusion of the study.

Class Structure

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 a guided meditation. The teacher then reads the assigned section 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.

Commitments

Commitments include:
Attending all classes and taking part in class discussions.
Attending one group puja (chanted prayers) weekly is highly recommended.
Taking an exam at the conclusion of either a section of the assigned book or the entire book.

We welcome you to read a transcript of a talk- The Benefits of the Study Programs- given by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso on the occasion of the inauguration of the Foundation Program at Tara Centre, England, October 1990. Please CLICK HERE if you'd like to read.

When you join you will experience the great benefits of being part of this systematic study program. Through this you can improve your good heart, your wisdom, and your cherishing of others by going deeper into your study and meditation practice. Read more about the texts studied and benefits HERE.

This is an IN-PERSON class. It is possible to participate in the Foundation Program via correspondence for those living far from the center.

*Enrollment for this program is required. It is helpful if you have attended General Program classes (drop-in) regularly for a minimum of two months before joining the Foundation Program. There are breaks throughout the program, including a longer break in the summer.

Please inquire about scheduling of classes or any other questions you may have. Email: [email protected] for more information.

About the Teacher

Gen Khyenwang is the Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Center New Mexico. She is a close disciple and student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso and has been practicing and teaching under his guidance for many years. The teachings she shares are clear, heartfelt and extremely practical for modern life. Gen Khyenwang is an inspiring example of a contemporary Buddhist practitioner and is known for her warmth and sincerity, putting time-tested teachings into practice in daily life.

Foundation Program