“Modern Buddhism for everyone!” echoes in my mind. The Kadampa Meditation Center in Washington D.C. stands before us. It offers meditation classes and modern Buddhist teachings. The center is open to all in the District of Columbia and the DC metro area.
Kadampa Meditation Center is part of the New Kadampa Tradition. This is a global association of over 1,100 Buddhist centers. They follow the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. He is a world-renowned Buddhist Master. He introduced Modern Buddhism into today’s society.
The Kadampa Meditation Center was founded on September 22nd, 1994. This was Buddha’s Return from Heaven day. It was first named Vajrayogini Buddhist Center. The Center was originally in the NW quadrant of Washington D.C.
For many years, the center rented commercial spaces. In Fall 2016, Venerable Geshe-la helped the center purchase a church property. It is in the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood of Washington DC. The purpose was to create a city World Peace Temple in the US Capitol City.
In early 2019, the upper floor of the Temple building was renovated. It now has a beautiful 250-person meditation room. It also has a 3-bedroom apartment. The lower level has a second meditation room for 20 people. There is also a community area, bookstore, and dining area.
Gen-la Jampa opened the Temple in June 2019. There was a ribbon-cutting ceremony. He also held a special weekend course on Modern Buddhism. Teachers and practitioners from across the US attended.
The Temple now offers all three study programs. It also provides weekend courses and retreats. Normally, drop-in classes are available every day. They include guided meditations. They also teach how to apply Buddhist insights to daily life. All teachings and meditations help you reach your potential.
The Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center is Gen Kelsang Demo. She is the Midwestern US National Spiritual Director of NKT-IKBU. She has studied with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 20 years. She has taught Kadampa Buddhism since 1998. Gen Demo is respected as a Teacher and practitioner. She has practical knowledge and gives clear teachings for all.
Kadampa Meditation Center offers various classes and events. These include drop-in classes. They also have workshops and retreats. They teach meditation and modern Buddhism. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to experienced meditators. There are special events like workshops and public talks. Local retreats are available too. There are even programs for kids and families coming soon. In-depth study programs are offered as well. People can study and practice meditation systematically. They can also explore modern Buddhism.
Kadampa Meditation Center is part of a worldwide community. It connects Kadampa Buddhist centers and practitioners.