Ven Thubten Chokyi teaching 6th - 14th August 2011

Venerable Thubten Chokyi is the Spiritual Program Coordinator for Vajrayana Institute and is also one of our esteemed teachers. She is the Director for Liberation Prison Project, a social services project affiliated to FPMT that offers spiritual advice and teachings, as well as books and materials, to people in prison interested in exploring, studying and practicing Buddhism. Venerable Chokyi is a member of the Women's Interfaith Network in Sydney.

Weekend course:  'The Spiritual Teacher'  (DB Module 4)

Saturday 6th, Sunday 7^th August 10am – 5pm

Take the time to investigate the role of the teacher on the spiritual path: the need for a teacher, the qualities of a teacher, the qualities of a student and how to relate to a teacher for greatest benefit in one’s spiritual life.  Consider the challenges we face when thinking of entering into a “guru-disciple” relationship and learn how to overcome these skilfully. This subject is relevant to all students.

Facility fee: $150 waged, $130 concession, $110 members (fully catered with vegetarian food)

Saturday night special event: The Liberation Prison Project

with viewing of the Compass program “Key to Freedom” about the project.  Compass follows Robina Courtin as she visits inmates at Long Bay and Junee prisons in NSW. Along the way we trace her own story and examine her philosophy.

Saturday 6^th August 7-9pm.  Chai and cake provided

Venerable Chokyi will explain how the project works and invite those who are interested in being a part of helping prisoners who want to change their minds and develop their human potential.

By donation.

An evening talk: 'Working with Tibetan Buddhist Ritual and the Guru Puja' 

Monday 8^th August 6-9pm

Venerable Chokyi will explain the various ritual implements used in the deity/visualisation practices and Puja's.  These include mudras, water offerings and mandala offerings.  Venerable Chokyi is a knowledgeable practitioner and will be able to answer questions on various practices.  We will then do the Guru Puja practice together.

Facility fee: $20 waged, $15 concession, $10 members

Please bring food offerings to share that are not runny or hot

An evening talk: 'Preparing for and doing a Retreat'

Thursday 11^th August 7-9pm

An important part of spiritual development involves meditation retreats.  As part of the Discovering Buddhism 2 year course 'special integration experiences' are recommended. Venerable Chokyi will give practical advice about preparing for retreats and the practices a student might integrate in a retreat.

Facility fee: $20 waged, $15 concession, $10 members