Which class is right for me?
Q: I'm new and curious about meditation. Which class should I go to first?
Monday Night General Program is a wonderful opportunity to learn about basic Buddhist teachings and practice. The range of topics includes karma, compassion, enlightenment, and so on. Each month begins a new series. It is not necessary to participate for the entire series, but you are welcome to do so if you wish!
Sunday mornings, we offer Prayers for World Peace, which introduces Buddhist view and meditation. Stick around afterwards and enjoy the fare at our World Peace Cafe or a delicious vegetarian brunch.
If you are interested in learning how to meditate, we offer Lunchtime Meditation at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This class is more condensed and focuses more on practicing meditation.
Q: How long are classes?
Classes generally go on for an hour to an hour and a half. Look for more details on class pages
Q: I'm a parent with children. Is there something for us?
Yes! During Prayers for World Peace, there is a special kids class held simultaneously called Dharma for Kids. This class is for children ages ~4-10. Parents are welcome to stay for class with their children.
For parents of younger children, there is also Parents & Tots Time on Tuesdays from 2:30-3:30. Toddlers can play with toys and enjoy the main shrine room. It's a time for kids and families to relax and enjoy making prayers to Buddha Avalokiteshvara in the beautiful meditation room.
Q: I've never been to a Buddhist temple before. What should I expect?
Classes at the Temple are very accessible. Teachings and prayers are all in English. You do not need to bring any mats or wear any special clothing. Comfortable chairs are used for seating.
When going upstairs to the meditation room, it is traditional to take off our shoes to preserve the space. Also, when the Teacher enters, we normally stand out of respect for Buddha's teachings.
Q: I've been coming to classes for a while. I really like what I hear. Is there something more I can try?
For those students who want to deepen their experience of Buddhism, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso designed the Foundation Program. The Foundation Program (FP) immerses us in Buddhist teachings by studying systematically one of five texts on the FP curriculum. The book currently being studied on FP is Understanding the Mind. If you are interested in this program, please contact our Education Program Coordinator at epc@meditateinseattle.org.
