BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/Helsinki BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:EEST DTSTART:20230326T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:EET DTSTART:20231029T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:EEST DTSTART:20240331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:EET DTSTART:20241027T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:EEST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:EET DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:EEST DTSTART:20260329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:EET DTSTART:20261025T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20251012T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20251012T133000 DTSTAMP:20251002T190503Z CREATED:20251002T190503Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T190503Z UID:6172-1760265000-1760275800@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Mindfulness for Fear and Anxiety DESCRIPTION:with Vera Hey \nUsing mindfulness to cope with fear and anxiety.\n\nFear and anxiety are some of the most challenging emotions of all times!  Can we have a quality life in spite of them? Let’s explore how mindfulness tools can help.\n\n\n10:30 – 11:30 Talk\n11:30 – 12:00 Tea\n12:00 – 13:15 Meditation and dealing with challenging emotions exercise.\n\n\nThere is no charge for this event\, but donations are welcome.\nAbout the facilitator:\n\nVera Hey has an Honours degree in Psychology and has been working in the field for the past fifteen years. She has been a student of Rob Nairn since 2008\, and during this time she attended most of the trainings offered by him and attended a number of retreats including ten day silent retreats. She also completed a four year mindfulness facilitators training program which ran under the supervision of Rob Nairn\, as well as a mindfulness facilitators training course\, offered by Rob in 2018.\n\n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/mindfulness-for-fear-and-anxiety/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Compassion Practice,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/10/Untitled-design-33.png ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20251005T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20251005T130000 DTSTAMP:20250901T162640Z CREATED:20250901T162630Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T162640Z UID:6159-1759660200-1759669200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Remembering Akong Tulku Rinpoche DESCRIPTION:Commemoration of the Parinirvana of Akong Tulku Rinpoche\nWe warmly invite you to join us on Sunday\, 5 October\, for a special screening of the film Akong – A Remarkable Life\, held in honour of the Parinirvana of Akong Tulku Rinpoche. \nKSDJ Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington \n+27 62 913 4436 \njohannesbug@kagyu.org.za \n10:30 am: Film Screening: Akong – A Remarkable Life12:00 pm: Tea  – a chance to share refreshments together after the film. Please bring a plate of vegetarian food to share.12:30 pm: Chenrezik Puja – concluding the gathering\, with all manis dedicated to the Million Mani Project for the swift return of Akong Rinpoche and the long life of Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche. \nAbout the Film \nAkong – A Remarkable Life traces the extraordinary journey of Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, Tibetan Buddhist master\, humanitarian\, and co-founder of Samye Ling\, the first Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the West. \nBorn in Eastern Tibet\, Rinpoche was recognised as a tulku at an early age and became abbot of Dolma Lhakang monastery. Political turmoil in 1959 forced him to flee Tibet on a perilous journey across the Himalayas\, during which only 13 of 300 companions survived. Near death in a mountain cave\, Akong Rinpoche vowed that\, if he lived\, he would dedicate his life to helping others. \nHe eventually reached India\, where he worked with refugee children and later travelled to Britain with his lifelong friend Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche. Together\, in 1967\, they established Samye Ling\, which became a flourishing spiritual centre and the heart of Tibetan Buddhism in the West. \nRinpoche’s vision extended far beyond monastic life. He co-founded ROKPA International\, a humanitarian organisation that continues his work in Tibet\, Nepal\, Zimbabwe\, South Africa\, and elsewhere—providing schools\, orphanages\, medical care\, and food to those most in need. His life was defined by his guiding principle: “Only the impossible is worth doing.” \nThe film includes moving accounts from those whose lives he touched\, revealing how his compassion-in-action inspired thousands of people worldwide. \nAlthough Akong Rinpoche’s life ended tragically in Chengdu\, China\, on 8 October 2013\, his legacy continues to shine as a source of hope and guidance. \nRSVP: \nKSDJ Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington \n+27 62 913 4436 \njohannesbug@kagyu.org.za URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/remembering-akong-tulku-rinpoche/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Community,Compassion Practice,Dharma,Pujas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/09/323904571_1536815613731018_313777706548568511_n-e1756744153649.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250907T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250921T120000 DTSTAMP:20250901T131537Z CREATED:20250803T170842Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T131537Z UID:6145-1757241000-1758456000@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Diamond Mind - Meditation Course DESCRIPTION:Three-Week Introduction to Meditation Course \nBased on Diamond Mind: A Psychology of Meditation by Rob Nairn \nIn this practical\, accessible course\, you’ll learn how to work gently and skilfully with your own mind. Drawing on Rob Nairn’s Diamond Mind\, we explore how anxiety\, desire\, and anger cloud our natural clarity\, and how simple meditation practices can help dissolve these obscurations. Over three weeks\, you will be guided step-by-step to recognise unhelpful mental patterns\, understand their origins\, and cultivate a calm\, spacious awareness. As the mind settles\, its innate wisdom and brilliance can shine through — bringing greater clarity\, compassion\, and joy into everyday life. \n\n“Meditation is inherently simple. We do not need to import anything new into the mind. There are no complex\, intellectual mechanisms involved. We don’t have to understand profound philosophical systems. What is necessary is to learn the very basic simplicity of being – and in this way\, discover the diamond mind.” Rob Nairn\, Diamond Mind \n\nDates & Time: Sundays 7\, 14 and Saturday 20 September \n10:30 AM – 12:00 PM \nCost: \nNo cost\, donations welcome to the centre and for the facilitator. \nFacilitator: \n\nAlan Muller took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/diamond-mind-meditation-course/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/08/60d0d608a93c0_w_h-e1754241720591.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250904T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250904T133000 DTSTAMP:20250826T093223Z CREATED:20250706T144059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T093223Z UID:5974-1756983600-1756992600@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Blessing and Dharma Talk with Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche 4 Sep 2025 DESCRIPTION:World-renowned meditation master Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche will be in South Africa for the first time from 27 August to 7 September. We are honoured to host Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche at our temple for a blessing and a Dharma Talk on Thursday morning\, 4 September. \nDate: Thursday\, 4 September\nTime: 11h00 AM– 13h30 PM\nEvent: Blessing and Dharma Talk\nVenue: KSD Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg \n11:00 – 11:30 Arrival and Settling \n11:30 Welcoming of Rinpoche \n11:45 – 12:10 Blessing \n12:15 – 13:30 Dharma Talk \n13:30 Bring and Share Lunch \nNo cost\, but Dana for Rinpoche is appreciated. \nPlease RSVP:\nEmail: johannesburg@kagyu.org.za\nWA: +27 62 913 4436 \nYongey Mingyur Rinpoche is renowned for his ability to make meditation accessible to everyone\, regardless of background or beliefs.\nHe is a bestselling author whose book The Joy of Living became a New York Times bestseller and has been translated into over 20 languages.\nHis unique approach combines time-tested practices with cutting-edge neuroscience.  Research conducted at the University of Wisconsin revealed extraordinary effects of his  meditation techniques on brain function\, with results featured in National Geographic and\nTime magazine.\nMost uniquely\, his teachings weave together his own personal experiences\, which include using meditation techniques to overcome panic attacks and a near-death experience during a wandering retreat\, with modern scientific research. This combination creates practical tools\nfor cultivating happiness and well-being in our fast-paced\, stress-filled world.\nRinpoche inspires millions by sharing evidence-based methods that require no religious background—just minutes of daily practice can lead to reduced anxiety\, greater happiness\, and improved focus in both personal and professional life.  His works Joyful Wisdom and In Love with the World explore personal transformation\, resilience\, and his profound near-death experience. His acclaimed TED Talk demonstrates\nwhy meditation is easier than most people think. For a more detailed biography of Rinpoche\, see here. \nThis visit is organised by Tergar South Africa. The visit will bring the founder of the worldwide Tergar Meditation Community\, which\noperates centres across six continents\, to Cape Town and Johannesburg for a series of talks\, courses\, and retreats.For full details of his visit\, please see here. \nTergar SA will also be hosting a public talk with Rinpoche at Wits as follows \nDate: Wednesday\, 3 September\nTime: 18h00 – 20h30\nEvent: Meditation for life\, work and purpose\nVenue: Wits Campus\, Braamfontein\, Johannesburg \nThis public lecture explores practical meditation techniques for bringing clarity and purpose to both personal and professional life. Mingyur Rinpoche will demonstrate methods for transforming daily challenges into opportunities for mental clarity and renewed focus\, addressing stress\, overwhelm\, and burnout while helping participants discover deeper meaning in their everyday experiences. \nIn our high-pressure world of deadlines\, expectations\, and endless distractions\, Mingyur Rinpoche offers something revolutionary: practical techniques that transform stress into clarity\, overwhelm into focus\, and burnout into renewed purpose. The session is designed for both newcomers to meditation and experienced practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of contemplative practice in daily life. \nCost: From R199\nBookings: Quicket \nPlease note this event is organised by Tergar SA. They have kindly offered a 15% discount for our members. Please enter this code\, exactly as written\, when booking: KSD-JHB@ URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/blessing-and-dharma-talk-with-yongey-mingyur-rinpoche-4-sep-2025/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/07/Photo-credit-Ngawang-Thigchok-Gurung-copy-2-scaled-e1751815489703.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250831T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250831T130000 DTSTAMP:20250803T162251Z CREATED:20250803T162251Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250803T162251Z UID:6132-1756636200-1756645200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Mindfulness Mini-retreat DESCRIPTION:How practising Mindfulness can help to cope with stress\, anxiety\, depression and live a better quality of life. \nwith Vera Hey \n“The only time and place where it is possible to be happy is now.” ~ Dalai Lama \nModern culture is all about achievement and “not missing out”\, which often results in stress\, anxiety and even depression. Getting the impression from social media that everyone is succeeding\, while you are feeling overwhelmed. It can easily become too much! Can mindfulness practice and meditation help? \nSchedule:\n10:30 – 11:30 Talk\n11:30 – 12:00 Tea\n12:00 – 13:00: Meditation and an exercise addressing challenging emotions.\n\n\nAbout the facilitator:\nVera Hey has an Honours degree in Psychology and has been working in the field for the past fifteen years. She has was a student of Rob Nairn from 2008\, and during this time she attended most of the trainings offered by him and attended a number of retreats including ten day silent retreats. She also completed a four year mindfulness facilitators training program which ran under the supervision of Rob Nairn\, as well as a mindfulness facilitators training course\, offered by Rob in 2018. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/mindfulness-mini-retreat/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2020/01/What-is-Mindfulness-Meditation-e1579897920352.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250802T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250802T113000 DTSTAMP:20250724T101956Z CREATED:20250724T101956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250724T101956Z UID:6115-1754130600-1754134200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Introduction to Buddhism DESCRIPTION:with Alan Muller \nIn this talk we will go through the outline of the Buddha’s teachings\, his journey to enlightenment and other important aspects on the Buddhist path.\n\nQuestions during the session are most welcome so that you can clarify for yourself what Buddhism entails.\n\n\nCost:\n\nThere is no cost for this talk. Dana is welcome for the facilitator.\n\nFacilitator:\n\nAlan Muller took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/introduction-to-buddhism/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/07/f_buddha-e1753352581513.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250628T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250628T133000 DTSTAMP:20251002T191905Z CREATED:20250521T184925Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T191905Z UID:5924-1751106600-1751117400@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:The Jewel Ornament of Liberation Study Group DESCRIPTION:This is an ongoing monthly study group\, facilitated by Alan Muller. We will study the text The Jewel Ornament of Liberation\, by Je Gampopa\, which is one of the five most important texts of the Karma Kagyu lineage. \n“This is one of the primary Kagyu texts and of immense relevance and benefit to all practitioners regardless of what stage they are at. In addition to providing a step-by-step outline of the path to Buddhahood\, the teachings on the innate Buddha nature can provide students with the confidence to enter the path\, while those already on the path can find in its twenty-one chapters much to inspire and keep them moving along the unmistaken path to Liberation.”  Lama Karma Shedrup \n  \nJe Gampopa (1079–1153) \nThis study group is suited for both beginners and people who have been on the path for some time. \n“About 1000 years ago one extraordinary individual\, Gampopa achieved Buddhahood by working with his Lama Milarepa and decided to set down this Buddhist path in a single book that he called The Jewel Ornament of Liberation.” Quote from Clark Johnson in Thrangu Rinpoche’s commentary on the text. \nIt is an ongoing group which meets once a month. After the first couple of sessions\, the group will be closed\, and no one can join in. \nThis is a hybrid event—both in-person and online—although it is recommended that you attend in person. \nOngoing Study Group Dates\n25 October\, 29 November – Saturday mornings – 3 hours with a break. \nBring a plate of treats to share for Tea. \nCost:\nThere is no charge for this study group. However\, donations are welcomed – a suggested donation of R50 per person.  Dharma centres\, which offer teachings and meditation practices that benefit all beings\, are largely sustained through the generosity of their supporters. Donations play a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of these teachings\, providing resources for the upkeep of the centre\, supporting teachers\, and enabling the running of retreats\, courses\, and community activities. \nFacilitator:\nAlan Muller took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/the-jewel-ornament-of-liberation-study-group-3/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Study,Study Group ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/03/3-Jewels-by-Christopher-J-Fynn_Wikimedia-Commons-Cropped-1024x576-1-e1742216213336.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250622T090000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250622T233000 DTSTAMP:20250619T105338Z CREATED:20250521T145659Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T105338Z UID:5890-1750582800-1750635000@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Awakening Courage and Compassion: An Introduction to Green Tara Practice with Lama Zangpo DESCRIPTION:Join us for a gentle introduction to the Green Tara practice\, one of the most beloved and accessible practices in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. \nGreen Tara is revered as the feminine embodiment of enlightened activity and swift compassion. For centuries\, practitioners have turned to her for protection from fears\, obstacles\, and inner turmoil. \n\n“The beloved deity Tara is the feminine embodiment of enlightenment. For centuries\, practitioners have turned to her for protection from both external and internal dangers\, ranging from fire to anger and arrogance.”— Thubten Chodron \n\nThis session will include:🌸 A brief overview of the symbolism and meaning behind the Green Tara practice🌿 Guidance on how to engage with the mantra\, visualisation\, and prayer🧘‍♀️ A group practice session to cultivate inner courage\, peace\, and compassion \n\n Event Details\n🪷 Cushions\, chairs and texts provided🫖 Bring and Share Plate of Tea Treats💰 Cost: No cost\, but donations appreciated📩 Please RSVP to reserve your place \nThe teachings will commence shortly after 9 am\, following Green Tara Practice (both in-person and online) from 7:50 AM to 9 AM on Sunday 22 June. \njohannesburg@kagyu.org.za \nWA: +27 62 913 4436 \nAll are welcome—no prior experience needed. \nLama Zangpo began his meditation journey in 1996 after meeting Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at KSDJ\, where he was a resident volunteer. He undertook long retreats on Arran and trained intensively with Drupon Rinpoche in Nepal. He has supported Buddhist communities in South Africa\, the Congo\, and now Glasgow\, where he is known for his compassionate and practical understanding of Buddhist teachings. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/awakening-courage-and-compassion-an-introduction-to-green-tara-practice-with-lama-zangpo/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Compassion Practice,Dharma,Meditation,Pujas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/05/TARA-raw-image-e1747854933158.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250621T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250621T150000 DTSTAMP:20250522T155634Z CREATED:20250521T143954Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T155634Z UID:5884-1750500000-1750518000@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Meditation in Daily Life with Lama Zangpo DESCRIPTION:🧘 A Practical Workshop for Busy Minds \nHow can we bring the calm of meditation into the busyness of everyday life? \nJoin us for a practical and inspiring meditation workshop designed to help you build a sustainable practice — no matter how full your schedule is. While many believe that longer sessions are best\, research and experience show that short\, consistent sessions can be just as powerful and much easier to maintain. \nThis workshop will explore:✨ How to create a simple\, effective daily practice✨ The benefits of shorter\, regular meditation✨ Guided sessions and time for discussion✨ How meditation can bring clarity and peace to the mind \n\n“With the practice of meditation\, we can actually get the mind to rest on what we want it to rest on\, and the mind becomes clearer and more peaceful.”— Thrangu Rinpoche \n\nWhether you’re new to meditation or looking to strengthen your existing routine\, this workshop offers practical tools and encouragement for real-life practice. \nWorkshop Details\n🪷 Cushions and chairs provided🫖 Bring and Share Vegetarian Lunch💰 Cost: No cost\, but donations appreciated📩 Please RSVP to reserve your place \njohannesburg@kagyu.org.za \nWA: +27 62 913 4436 \n\nLama Zangpo began his meditation journey in 1996 after meeting Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at KSDJ\, where he was a resident volunteer. He undertook long retreats on Arran and trained intensively with Drupon Rinpoche in Nepal. He has supported Buddhist communities in South Africa\, the Congo\, and now Glasgow\, where he is known for his compassionate and practical understanding of Buddhist teachings. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/meditation-in-daily-life-with-lama-zangpo/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/05/purposeofmeditation-e1759432529388.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250620T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250620T203000 DTSTAMP:20250522T155700Z CREATED:20250521T142056Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T155700Z UID:5880-1750446000-1750451400@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Introduction to Meditation with Lama Zangpo DESCRIPTION:Discover Stillness\, Clarity\, and Presence \n\n“Meditation is not something that a Buddha or a spiritual teacher can insert into our mind from outside. It is already present although only as a potential state. We all possess the state of meditation but we do not know how to use it. We are in the situation of someone who possess a beautiful car but does not know how to drive.” Bokar Rinpoche \n\nCurious about meditation or looking to deepen your understanding of the basics? Join us for a gentle and accessible Introduction to Meditation session—perfect for beginners and anyone wanting to reconnect with the foundations of mindfulness practice. \nIn this introductory session\, you will: \n\nLearn simple techniques for calming the mind and relaxing the body\nExplore the principles of mindfulness and awareness\nBe guided through a short\, seated meditation practice\nHave time for questions and supportive discussion\n\nMeditation offers a powerful way to reduce stress\, cultivate compassion\, and bring more presence into everyday life. No previous experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and an open heart. \nThis introduction is followed by a Meditation Workshop on Saturday\, 21 June 2025. – See here for more details. \n🪷 Cushions and chairs provided \n💰 Cost: No cost\, but donations welcome \n📩 Please RSVP to reserve your place \nCome sit with us—and learn how to drive your beautiful car\, learn how to meditate. \nLama Zangpo began his meditation journey in 1996 after meeting Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at KSDJ\, where he was a resident volunteer. He undertook long retreats on Arran and trained intensively with Drupon Rinpoche in Nepal. He has supported Buddhist communities in South Africa\, the Congo\, and now Glasgow\, where he is known for his compassionate and practical understanding of Buddhist teachings. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/introduction-to-meditation-with-lama-zangpo/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/05/consciousness-meditation-neurosicnce-e1747855033368.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250614T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250615T130000 DTSTAMP:20250522T155731Z CREATED:20250515T151037Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T155731Z UID:5852-1749897000-1749992400@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Training the Mind for Mental Resilience with Lama Zangpo DESCRIPTION:A Weekend Introduction to Lojong \nLojong\, a Tibetan Buddhist practice\, literally means mind training  –  Lo means “mind” and jong means “to train.”  Its purpose is to transform the way we relate to our experiences—especially difficult ones—so that instead of reacting with frustration\, anger\, or fear\, we cultivate compassion\, wisdom\, and resilience. \nAt the heart of lojong are 59 slogans or aphorisms\, originally compiled by the 12th-century teacher Geshe Chekawa. These slogans are not just philosophical ideas—they are practical instructions for daily life. They help practitioners shift their perspective from self-centeredness to a broader awareness rooted in empathy and kindness. \nIn our fast-paced\, stressful world\, lojong offers a powerful toolkit for building mental resilience. Rather than just managing stress\, it helps transform the mind at its root—changing how we perceive\, react\, and relate to the world. \nYou don’t need to be a Buddhist to benefit from mind training. Its principles align with modern psychological approaches to emotional regulation\, cognitive reframing\, and compassion-based living. It’s as much about practical mental training as it is about spiritual growth. \nProgramme\nSaturday 14 June  \n\n10:30 am to 4:00 pm\nBring and Share Vegetarian Lunch\n\nSunday 15 June \n\n10:30 am to 1:00 pm\n\nCost\nThere is no charge for this weekend workshop\, but donations are welcome to help cover centre costs. \nTeacher\n\nLama Zangpo began his meditation journey in 1996 after meeting Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at KSDJ\, where he was a resident volunteer. He undertook long retreats on Arran and trained intensively with Drupon Rinpoche in Nepal. He has supported Buddhist communities in South Africa\, the Congo\, and now Glasgow\, where he is known for his compassionate and practical understanding of Buddhist teachings. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/training-the-mind-for-mental-resilience-with-lama-zangpo/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Compassion Practice,Dharma,Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/05/meditation-shutterstock_778069513-scaled-1-e1747854284391.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250611T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250611T210000 DTSTAMP:20250522T155802Z CREATED:20250521T135255Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250522T155802Z UID:5867-1749668400-1749675600@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Saga Dawa Düchen Celebration with Lama Zangpo DESCRIPTION:🌕 Join Us for a Special Saga Dawa Düchen Community Gathering 🌕\nWe warmly invite you to a joyful evening of Chenrezik Practice on the sacred full moon day of Saga Dawa Düchen\, one of the most spiritually significant days in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar. \nSaga Dawa\, the fourth lunar month\, is revered as the holiest time in Tibetan Buddhism. It marks the birth\, enlightenment\, and parinirvana of the Buddha\, and is a period when acts of virtue\, such as prayer\, generosity\, and compassion\, are said to be amplified thousands of times in their power and benefit. \n✨A short reading of the 12 Deeds of the Buddha \nReflecting on the profound life and path of the Enlightened One with Lama Zangpo \n✨Chenrezik PracticeLama Zangpo will guide us in the practice of Chenrezik\, the embodiment of boundless loving-kindness and compassion. \n✨Launch of the 2025 One Million Mani ProjectThis gathering will also mark the official launch of our One Million Mani Project 2025—a collective effort to accumulate one million Om Mani Peme Hung mantras\, dedicated to peace\, healing\, and benefit for all beings. \n🥗 Community Meal to FollowAfter the practice\, we will enjoy a shared meal together. Please bring a plate of vegetarian food to contribute to our potluck offering. \n📩 RSVPTo help us with preparations\, kindly let us know if you’ll be attending this auspicious evening. \nLet’s come together in community\, prayer\, and joyful aspiration on this powerful day of light and merit. \n  \nLama Zangpo began his meditation journey in 1996 after meeting Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at KSDJ\, where he was a resident volunteer. He undertook long retreats on Arran and trained intensively with Drupon Rinpoche in Nepal. He has supported Buddhist communities in South Africa\, the Congo\, and now Glasgow\, where he is known for his compassionate and practical understanding of Buddhist teachings. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/saga-dawa-duchen-celebration-with-lama-zangpo/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Community,Compassion Practice,Dharma,Meditation,Pujas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/05/a-buddha-sits-in-in-vesak-buddha-purnima-day-with-copy-space-background-for-vesak-festival-day-concept-vesak-celebration-day-greetings-concept-by-ai-generated-free-photo-e1747854612120.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250611T050000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20251008T233000 DTSTAMP:20250926T162616Z CREATED:20250521T111813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T162616Z UID:5860-1749618000-1759966200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Million MANIS 2025 DESCRIPTION:One Million Mani Mantras Project\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nStarting on Saga Dawa Düchen – 11 June 2025 \nEnd date: 8 October 2025 \nWe invite you to join us in reciting and collecting Mani Mantras with the shared goal of reaching one million mantras. This meaningful project begins on Saga Dawa Düchen— one of the four Wheel Days in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar— which falls on Wednesday\, 11 June in 2025. We will finish on the 8th of October 2025\, the anniversary of Akong Rinpoche’s parinirvana. \nWhether you’re on your meditation cushion or standing in a queue\, your Om Mani Padme Hum counts. Everyone who participates will share in the merit of the entire million recitations. \nNow in its fourth year\, this project is dedicated to: \n\nThe swift return of Akong Tulku Rinpoche\nThe health and long life of Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche\nThe benefit of all sentient beings\n\nWe will begin on the full moon of the fourth lunar month\, known as Saga Dawa\, the holiest month in Tibetan Buddhism. It commemorates the birth\, enlightenment\, and parinirvana of the Buddha. During this sacred time\, virtuous deeds—such as prayer\, generosity\, and refraining from harm—are especially encouraged and believed to be multiplied many times over. \nHow to Participate: \n\nRecord your mantra count and send it to: johannesburg@kagyu.org.za\nOr enter your total directly on this form.\nYou may also dedicate your recitations to individuals by adding their names to the prayer list\n\nLet us come together as a community in compassion and aspiration. Every mantra counts! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/million-manis-2025/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Community,Compassion Practice,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness,Pujas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2024/05/Chenrezik-high-res11-Copy.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250531T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250531T133000 DTSTAMP:20250521T184532Z CREATED:20250521T184532Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T184532Z UID:5921-1748687400-1748698200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:The Jewel Ornament of Liberation Study Group DESCRIPTION:This is an ongoing monthly study group\, facilitated by Alan Muller. We will study the text The Jewel Ornament of Liberation\, by Je Gampopa\, which is one of the five most important texts of the Karma Kagyu lineage. \n“This is one of the primary Kagyu texts and of immense relevance and benefit to all practitioners regardless of what stage they are at. In addition to providing a step-by-step outline of the path to Buddhahood\, the teachings on the innate Buddha nature can provide students with the confidence to enter the path\, while those already on the path can find in its twenty-one chapters much to inspire and keep them moving along the unmistaken path to Liberation.”  Lama Karma Shedrup \n  \nJe Gampopa (1079–1153) \nThis study group is suited for both beginners and people who have been on the path for some time. \n“About 1000 years ago one extraordinary individual\, Gampopa achieved Buddhahood by working with his Lama Milarepa and decided to set down this Buddhist path in a single book that he called The Jewel Ornament of Liberation.” Quote from Clark Johnson in Thrangu Rinpoche’s commentary on the text. \nIt will be an ongoing group which meets once a month. After the first couple of sessions\, the group will be closed and people can no longer join. \nThis is a hybrid event—both in-person and online—although it is recommended that you attend in person. \nZoom link: \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88695915221?pwd=JoSybe4BYxkOuVaUBpIQ7yi2PFafHc.1 \nMeeting ID: 886 9591 5221\nPasscode: Gampopa \nOngoing Study Group Dates\n10 May\, 31 May\, 28 June – Saturday mornings – 3 hours with a break. \nBring a plate of treats to share for Tea. \nCost:\nThere is no charge for this study group. However\, donations are welcomed – a suggested donation of R50 per person.  Dharma centres\, which offer teachings and meditation practices that benefit all beings\, are largely sustained through the generosity of their supporters. Donations play a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of these teachings\, providing resources for the upkeep of the centre\, supporting teachers\, and enabling the running of retreats\, courses\, and community activities. \nFacilitator:\nAlan Muller took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/the-jewel-ornament-of-liberation-study-group-2/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Study ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/03/3-Jewels-by-Christopher-J-Fynn_Wikimedia-Commons-Cropped-1024x576-1-e1742216213336.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250517T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250517T163000 DTSTAMP:20250521T183649Z CREATED:20250521T183649Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T183649Z UID:5914-1747477800-1747499400@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Mindfulness Practice Day DESCRIPTION:Join us for a day of meditation sessions and guided practices.\nSuitable for anyone who has done a Mindfulness Course and would like to practice in a group setting\, with some guidance.\nThe day retreat will be guided by Vera Hey\, psychologist and mindfulness instructor.\nCost\nR100 donation\nSchedule\n\n10.30-11 Meditation with sound support11-11.30 Discussion.Silence and speech. Benefits of silence.11.30- 12 Tea12-12.30 Meditation with breath support12.30-13 Guided exercise13-13.30 Guided practice13.30- 14.15 Bring and share vegetarian lunch14.15-14.45 – Walkng meditation14.45-15.30 Practicing acceptance. Rain exercise.15.30-16 Guided exercise16-16.30 Loving-kindness meditation \nSee less URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/mindfulness-practice-day/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/05/Meditation-Mindfulness-1-scaled-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250503T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250503T143000 DTSTAMP:20250521T183204Z CREATED:20250521T182945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T183204Z UID:5910-1746266400-1746282600@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Chenrezik Instructions and Practice Day DESCRIPTION:Alan Muller will give some instructions on the Chenrezig practice\, but the emphasis will mainly be on getting familiar with the meditation through having time for actual practice. The day will also include some guided visualisations. Come for the day or join in for a specific session.\n\n\n“If we speak of Chenrezig as a practice\, how do we understand this figure? If we look at his name\, it refers to the one who gazes with eyes of love and compassion on all beings. He is continually concerned about and wishes to protect every living being. We can say then that the practice of Chenrezik is one of love and compassion.”\nH.H. 17th Karmapa.\n\n\nSchedule\n10:00 – 11:00 Session (Instructions)11:00 – 11:30 Tea11:30 – 12:30 Session (Guided Chenrezig practice)12:30 – 1:30pm Lunch (Bring and share vegetarian lunch)1:30 – 2:30 Session (Chenrezig practice) \n  \nNo charge but dana for the facilitator and donations to the centre are welcome.Members free. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/chenrezik-instructions-and-practice-day/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Community,Compassion Practice,Pujas ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/05/maxresdefault.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250420T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250420T123000 DTSTAMP:20250403T105607Z CREATED:20250403T105607Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T105607Z UID:5793-1745143200-1745152200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Sunday Sessions: Stories of Miracles and Rabbits DESCRIPTION:A monthly Sunday morning gathering with meditation\, a talk\, tea and Chenrezik Prayers. Please bring a plate of treats for tea. \nTopic:\n\nStories of Miracles and Rabbits with Alan Muller \nAs our first once-a-month Sunday programme falls on Easter Sunday\, we will look at some stories of miracles and rabbits relating to Buddha Shakyamuni. \n\nSchedule:\n10:00 – 10:25 \nMeditation \n10: 30 – 11:00 \nTalk (various presenters and topics) \n11:00 – 11:45 \nTea \n11:45 – 12:30 \nChenrezik \nCost:\nThere is no cost for these gatherings\, but as always\, donations are welcome. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/sunday-sessions-stories-of-miracles-and-rabbits/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Community,Compassion Practice,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/04/71VoOiXGDS._AC_UF8941000_QL80_-e1743678259634.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250412T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250412T143000 DTSTAMP:20250403T100020Z CREATED:20250403T095919Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250403T100020Z UID:5787-1744452000-1744468200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Meditation Practice Day and Instructions DESCRIPTION:During this practice day\, Alan Muller will give brief instructions and reminders\, but the emphasis will mainly be on actual sitting meditation\, interspersed with some walking meditation. There will be some periods of guided meditation. Come for the day or join in for a specific session. \n“Human beings are afflicted by suffering\, anguish\, and a number of fears which they are incapable of avoiding. The function of meditation is to eliminate this suffering and anguish. From the Buddhist point of view\, as well as that of meditation\, happiness and suffering do not fundamentally depend on the external circumstances\, but on the mind itself.”  Bokar Rinpoche. \n  \nSchedule:\n10:00 AM – 11:00 AM \nSession (Meditation Instruction and practice) \n11:00 AM – 11:30 AM \nTea \n11: 30 AM – 12:30 PM \nSession (Guided calm abiding and loving kindness meditation) \n12:30 PM – 1:30 PM \nLunch (Bring and share vegetarian lunch) \n1:30 PM – 2:30 PM \nSession (Sitting and walking mediation) \n  \nCost:\nNo cost\, but donations are appreciated for the Temple and the facilitator. \n  \nFacilitator:\n\nAlan Muller took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. \n\n  \n  \n  \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/meditation-practice-day-and-instructions/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Compassion Practice,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2024/03/tibetan-bowl-meditation-1-e1709974410109.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250405T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250405T120000 DTSTAMP:20250521T185112Z CREATED:20250317T125450Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T185112Z UID:5765-1743849000-1743854400@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:The Jewel Ornament of Liberation Study Group - Introduction DESCRIPTION:This is an ongoing monthly study group\, facilitated by Alan Muller. We will study the text The Jewel Ornament of Liberation\, by Je Gampopa\, which is one of the five most important texts of the Karma Kagyu lineage. \n“This is one of the primary Kagyu texts and of immense relevance and benefit to all practitioners regardless of what stage they are at. In addition to providing a step-by-step outline of the path to Buddhahood\, the teachings on the innate Buddha nature can provide students with the confidence to enter the path\, while those already on the path can find in its twenty-one chapters much to inspire and keep them moving along the unmistaken path to Liberation.”  Lama Karma Shedrup \n  \nJe Gampopa (1079–1153) \nIntroduction Saturday 5 April 10:30 – 12:00\nIn this introductory talk\, we will look at an outline of the text\, which can be summarised into six main points. This study group is suited for both beginners and people who have been on the path for some time. The introductory talk is there for people to see whether they are interested in joining the study group. \n“About 1000 years ago one extraordinary individual\, Gampopa achieved Buddhahood by working with his Lama Milarepa and decided to set down this Buddhist path in a single book that he called The Jewel Ornament of Liberation.” Quote from Clark Johnson in Thrangu Rinpoche’s commentary on the text. \nIt will be an ongoing group which meets once a month. After the first couple of sessions\, the group will be closed and people can no longer join. \nThis is a hybrid event—both in-person and online—although it is recommended that you attend in person. \nZoom link: \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88695915221?pwd=JoSybe4BYxkOuVaUBpIQ7yi2PFafHc.1 \nMeeting ID: 886 9591 5221\nPasscode: Gampopa \nOngoing Study Group Dates\n10 May\, 31 May\, 28 June – Saturday mornings – 3 hours with a break. \nCost:\nThere is no charge for this study group. However\, donations are welcomed – a suggested donation of R50 per person.  Dharma centres\, which offer teachings and meditation practices that benefit all beings\, are largely sustained through the generosity of their supporters. Donations play a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of these teachings\, providing resources for the upkeep of the centre\, supporting teachers\, and enabling the running of retreats\, courses\, and community activities. \nFacilitator:\nAlan Muller took refuge in 1997 with Akong Rinpoche. In 2003\, he completed a one-year closed retreat under the guidance of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery in Scotland. During this period\, he took novice monk vows. Alan remained a novice monk for six years and now presents courses and retreats as a layperson. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/the-jewel-ornament-of-liberation-study-group/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Study Group ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/03/3-Jewels-by-Christopher-J-Fynn_Wikimedia-Commons-Cropped-1024x576-1-e1742216213336.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250329T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250329T113000 DTSTAMP:20250313T094333Z CREATED:20250313T094003Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T094333Z UID:5749-1743244200-1743247800@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:What it Means to be a Buddhist (part 2) with Gelongma Lhamo DESCRIPTION:A two-part talk series with Gelongma (Ani) Lhamo. You are welcome to attend either one\, or both of the talks\, as each session offers valuable insights and teachings. \nWhat it means to be Buddhist (Part 2)\nDate: Saturday 29 March\nTime: 10:30 – 11:30 \nThe Three Trainings: Morality\, Meditation and Wisdom \nA brief exploration of some practical instructions given by Lord Buddha and passed down to us through generations of accomplished practitioners – especially how we can make some of these simple but profound methods a force for good in our own lives. \nCost\nThere is no charge for these talks\, but donations are welcome. Dharma centres\, which offer teachings and meditation practices that benefit all beings\, are largely sustained through the generosity of their supporters. Donations play a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of these teachings\, providing resources for the upkeep of the centre\, supporting teachers\, and enabling the running of retreats\, courses\, and community activities. \nTeacher\nGelongma (Ani) Lhamo is a fully ordained Buddhist nun from Scotland who completed a four-year cloistered retreat in 1993 and has lived at Samye Ling Monastery ever since. An experienced teacher of meditation and Dharma\, she has also served as Secretary and assistant to Abbot Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery for many years. Through her work\, she has learned to integrate meditation and the Buddha’s teachings into her busy daily life. \n  \n  \n  \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/what-it-means-to-be-a-buddhist-part-2-with-gelongma-lhamo/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/03/Buddha-and-Bodhi-Tree-e1741859312539.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250322T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250322T113000 DTSTAMP:20250313T094256Z CREATED:20250313T093101Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250313T094256Z UID:5739-1742639400-1742643000@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:What it Means to be a Buddhist (part 1) with Gelongma Lhamo DESCRIPTION:A two-part talk series with Gelongma (Ani) Lhamo. You are welcome to attend either one\, or both of the talks\, as each session offers valuable insights and teachings. \nWhat it means to be Buddhist (Part 1)\nDate: Saturday 22 March\nTime: 10:30 – 11:30 \n“Refrain from all harm\nBring benefit to others \nTame our own mind \nThis is the teaching of the Buddha” \nA look at the most fundamental Buddhist teachings: how they underpin all the methods and paths; and especially how these simple instructions can be used by anyone to transform and improve our lives. \nWhat it means to be Buddhist (Part 2)\nDate: Saturday 29 March\nTime: 10:30 – 11:30 \nThe Three Trainings: Morality\, Meditation and Wisdom \nA brief exploration of some practical instructions given by Lord Buddha and passed down to us through generations of accomplished practitioners – especially how we can make some of these simple but profound methods a force for good in our own lives. \nCost\nThere is no charge for these talks\, but donations are welcome. Dharma centres\, which offer teachings and meditation practices that benefit all beings\, are largely sustained through the generosity of their supporters. Donations play a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of these teachings\, providing resources for the upkeep of the centre\, supporting teachers\, and enabling the running of retreats\, courses\, and community activities. \nTeacher\nGelongma (Ani) Lhamo is a fully ordained Buddhist nun from Scotland who completed a four-year cloistered retreat in 1993 and has lived at Samye Ling Monastery ever since. An experienced teacher of meditation and Dharma\, she has also served as Secretary and assistant to Abbot Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche at Samye Ling Monastery for many years. Through her work\, she has learned to integrate meditation and the Buddha’s teachings into her busy daily life. \n  \n  \n  \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/what-it-means-to-be-a-buddhist-with-gelongma-lhamo/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/03/Buddha-and-Bodhi-Tree-e1741859312539.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250304T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250415T203000 DTSTAMP:20250202T100103Z CREATED:20250130T132943Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250202T100103Z UID:5716-1741113000-1744749000@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Experiential Mindfulness Course 4 March - 15 April DESCRIPTION:A 6- session experiential mindfulness course facilitated by Vera Hey \n“Mindfulness is a way to live life as if each moment counted and could be a valuable experience even if it is a moment of pain\, sadness\, despair or fear.” John Kabat-Zinn \nModern life can be a whirlwind of activities and demands\, leaving many feeling trapped in a cycle of stress and relentless busyness. This constant rush from one task to another often leads to living on auto-pilot\, where emotions and habitual behaviours take the reins\, and we struggle to find moments of genuine peace. The pressure to juggle various responsibilities can result in a mental tug-of-war\, as we work tirelessly to suppress intrusive thoughts and maintain a semblance of control. \nAs human beings\, we all experience states of frustration\, anxiety\, fear\, anger\, powerlessness\, etc. We often don’t know how we end up in these states\, what is causing them and what to do about them\, but we know too well that living like that is painful. \nUnderstanding and practising mindfulness enables one to have awareness of one’s inner world: thoughts\, feelings\, emotions\, physical sensations\, mind states etc. and thus have an understanding of why one feels and behaves the way one does\, giving one a better sense of being in control. We start realizing that we do not have to depend on external circumstances to be OK and at peace. \nMindfulness is a faculty that anyone can develop: it is the art of using simple methods to calm and stabilize our minds bringing about a natural sense of peace and well-being that can extend to every aspect of our lives. \nThis experiential course offers a blend of theoretical exploration and practical application\, designed to deepen your understanding.  Discussions will play a pivotal role\, allowing participants to share insights and learn from each other’s experiences. Reflection is also a key component\, encouraging you to critically assess your progress and understanding. \nAdditionally\, for those interested in further enrichment\, an optional urban retreat provides a chance to immerse yourself in a focused setting\, enhancing the overall learning experience. This course is perfect for those looking to explore Mindfulness in depth while gaining hands-on experience. \nThis course is based on the work of Rob Nairn\, an internationally recognized leader in mindfulness teaching and training\, and the author of international bestsellers Tranquil Mind\, Diamond Mind\, Living Dreaming Dying\, and From Mindfulness to Insight. Also referenced are the works of Jon Kabat-Zinn\, Jack Cornfield\, Christine Neff\, Thich Nhat Hanh and many others. \nTopics to be covered:\n\nBecoming aware of the current state of your mind.\nBecoming aware of how present you are. Self-compassion.\nExploring basics of mindfulness practice and mindfulness support: sound\, breath.\nWorking with distraction.\nIntroduction to observer/undercurrent model.\nCultivating an attitude of self-acceptance.\nWorking with difficult thoughts and emotions that are currently present.\nQuality living: mindfulness acceptance and serenity in daily life\n\nDates:\n\nTuesday 4th March 2025 – Free Introduction\nThereafter Tuesdays 11th March to 15th April 2025\n\nTime:\n\n6:30 PM for 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Join us for tea before the start of each session.\n\nOptional Urban Retreat:\n\n The date for the Urban Retreat will be discussed with participants.\n\nCost: \n\nR 600 if paid in full by Tuesday 4th March\nR750 full cost\nR600 Members/Pensioners/Students\nIf you would like to attend but cannot afford the fee\, please contact us for options. Don’t let a lack of finance prevent you from attending.\n\nTo reserve your spot:\nEmail: johannesburg@kagyu.org.za \nWhatsApp: +27 62 913 4436 \nAbout the facilitator:\nVera Hey has an Honours degree in Psychology and has been working in the field for the past fifteen years. She has been a student of Rob Nairn since 2008\, and during this time she attended most of the trainings offered by him and attended a number of retreats including ten day silent retreats. She also completed a four year mindfulness facilitators training program which ran under the supervision of Rob Nairn\, as well as a mindfulness facilitators training course\, offered by Rob in 2018. \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/experiential-mindfulness-course-4-march-15-april/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Compassion Practice,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/01/WhatsApp-Image-2025-01-033.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250302T103000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250302T123000 DTSTAMP:20250210T024344Z CREATED:20250210T024344Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250210T024344Z UID:5733-1740911400-1740918600@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Losar Celebration - Tea\, Treats and a Talk DESCRIPTION:Join us on Sunday\, 2nd March\, for  Tea\, Treats and a Talk as we celebrate Losar – Tibetan New Year! 🎉 Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche will give a short talk\, followed by a special blessing for children. It’s a time of joy\, and we’d love for you to be part of it! \nLosar coincides with the New Moon on Friday and marks the Year of the Female Wood Snake. The snake symbolizes wisdom\, growth\, and renewal\, with its ability to shed its skin representing transformation and personal evolution. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/losar-celebration-tea-treats-and-a-talk/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Community ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/02/tea-party.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250222T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250223T123000 DTSTAMP:20250112T082144Z CREATED:20250111T142356Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250112T082144Z UID:5696-1740218400-1740313800@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Sitting with Silence - A Weekend Meditation Course DESCRIPTION:“Many’s the person who’s missed the opportunity to say nothing… and lost much because of it.”\n\n\nThis weekend meditation course\, led by Lama Zangpo\, will give an overview of the method of calm abiding\, and insight meditation\, together with practical practice instructions. There will be guided meditation sessions and time to ask questions.\n\n\n\nLama Zangpo’s meditation journey began in 1996 when he met Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg and became a resident volunteer. His spiritual path took him from the Holy Isle to Arran\, and later to Nepal\, where he pursued intensive study and practice under the guidance of Drupon Rinpoche at the Thrangu Sekhar retreat. He has also supported communities in South Africa\, the Congo\, and most recently in Glasgow\, where he now resides\, helping to nurture and grow the local Buddhist community. Lama Zangpo is known for his compassionate approach and understanding of Buddhist meditation\, making this weekend accessible for both beginners and those with more experience.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere is no charge for this weekend’s course. Donations to support the centre are welcome.\n\n\nTime:\nSat 22 Feb 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Please bring a plate of vegetarian food to share for Saturday lunch).\nSun 23 Feb 10 AM to 12:30 PM\n\n\nVenue:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, 2094\n\n\nBook at johannesburg@kagyu.org.za\, or WhatsApp +27 62 913 4436. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/sitting-with-silence-a-weekend-meditation-course/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/01/zenpen-e1736670271185.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250215T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20250217T123000 DTSTAMP:20250208T112631Z CREATED:20250103T141538Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250208T112631Z UID:5611-1739613600-1739795400@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:KSD Johannesburg Temple Opening February 2025 DESCRIPTION:KSD Johannesburg\, a Tibetan Buddhist centre for meditation\, came into being in 1994\, through the foresight of Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, and his representative in Africa\, Rob Nairn. Akong Rinpoche wanted a Dharma centre on every corner to bring peace and harmony by providing access to practices such as mindfulness\, meditation\, and mind training\, in order to tame our wild monkey minds. KSDJ Buddhist Centre has been serving in this capacity for the last 30 years. \nIn 2019\, during a visit to KSDJ\, Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche had a vision of a magnificent Temple in Johannesburg to inspire practitioners in Johannesburg\, and the region\, and to serve as the base in Africa for the activities of the next Akong Rinpoche. Despite many obstacles\, Lama Yeshe persevered with an unwavering focus\, and now the fortunate people of Johannesburg have a beautiful Temple at the Buddhist centre for meditation and Buddhist teachings. \nWe are delighted to invite you to the opening of the KSDJ Temple on Saturday\, February 15\, and Sunday\, February 16. \nOur Abbot\, Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche will preside over the weekend\, and we are also honoured to have visiting teachers\, Lama Zangmo and Lama Zangpo. Events will include a talk by Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche\, talks by Lama Zangmo and Lama Zangpo as well as a Milarepa tsok puja and other prayers. \nOn Sunday\, there will also be the rare opportunity to take refuge\, and precepts from Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche. Please let us know if you want to take refuge at johannesburg@kagyu.org.za\, and please also indicate your gender so the lamas can prepare refuge cards. Lama Zangpo will explain about refuge and precepts before the refuge ceremony. If you have already taken refuge\, you are welcome to attend the ceremony to renew your commitment\, and you are also welcome to take precepts\, but it is not necessary to receive a new refuge name. \nPlease see the schedule below. We would appreciate you letting us know that you are coming for the benefit of our sponsors who wish to offer a delicious spread for lunch each day. Please RSVP at johannesburg@kagyu.org.za\, or WhatsApp +27 62 913 4436. \nAlso below are details of the further teaching programme for Lama Zangmo and Lama Zangpo over the following days. \n  \nOfferings & Dana\nThere will be no charge for these events at the Temple\, however\, donations towards the upkeep of the temple are welcome. \nIt would be very beneficial to bring offerings of fruit\, cakes\, sweets\, chips etc for the Milarepa Tsok Puja on Saturday morning. \nIf you are able to\, an offering of polished\, semi-precious stones would be welcomed for the shrine. \nThere are also opportunities to sponsor a Buddha Rupa for the new Temple or to contribute to the Thangka Project. \n  \nProgramme\nPlease double-check the venue for the events – KSD Johannesburg Temple\, or our sister centre KSD Randburg. \nSaturday 15th Feb – KSD Johannesburg Temple \n\n\n\n  10:00 – 10:30 AM\n  Arrival and settling in the Shrine Room\n\n\n  10:30 – 11:15 AM\n  Address by Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche\n\n\n\n  Break\n\n\n  11:30 AM – 13:00 PM\n  Milarepa Tsok Puja\n\n\n  13:00 – 15:00 PM\n  Lunch & Celebration\n\n\n  15:30 – 16:15 PM\n  Prayers\n\n\n\n  \nSunday 16th Feb – KSD Johannesburg Temple \n  \n\n\n\n6:30 to 8:00\nGreen Tara Puja\n\n\n\nBreak\n\n\n9:30 – 10:30\nTalk on the Meaning of Refuge and Precepts – Lama Zangpo\n\n\n\nBreak\n\n\n11:00 – 12:30\nRefuge Ceremony – Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche\n\n\n\nLunch Break\n\n\n14:00 – 16:00\nMilarepa’s Song of Happiness – Lama Zangmo\n\n\n\nSupper Break\n\n\n19:00 – 20:00\nChenrezik Puja\n\n\n\n  \n  \nFurther Programme – Lama Zangmo \n  \n\n\n\n  Mon 17th Feb: \n10:30 –   12:30\n  Living and Dying with Confidence\n  KSD Johannesburg Temple\n\n\n  Tue 18th Feb: \n19:00 –    20:30\n  The Three Trainings\n  KSD Randburg\n\n\n  21st to 23rd Feb\n  Cape Town Programme\n  KSD Cape Town\n\n\n  26th Feb – 2nd March\n  Harare Programme\n  Harare Buddhist Centre\n\n\n  Thu 6th to Sun 9th March\n  Retreat: Taming the Monkey Mind\n  Tara Rokpa Centre\, Groot Marico\n\n\n\n  \nKSD Randburg Week Programme – Lama Zangpo – Mon 17th to Thu 20th Feb \n\n\n\n  Mon 17 Feb: 19:30 – 21:00 \n \n  Meditation Session with Lama Zangpo:   Cultivating Inner Peace and Clarity\n   randburg@kagyu.org.za\n\n\n  Wed 19 Feb: 19:30 – 21:00\n   Lojong (7 Points of Mind Training)     Teachings – Applying Compassion in    Daily Life Part 1\n   randburg@kagyu.org.za\n\n\n  Thu 20 Feb: 19:30 – 21:00\n   Lojong (7 Points of Mind Training) Teachings – Applying Compassion in Daily Life Part 2\n   randburg@kagyu.org.za\n\n\n\n  \nKSD Johannesburg Temple Sat 22nd and Sun 23rd February – Lama Zangpo \nPlease Bring a plate of vegetarian food to share on Saturday. \n  \n\n\n\nSat 22 Feb: 10:00 to 16:00\nSitting with Silence\nKSD Johannesburg\n\n\nSun 23 Feb: 10:00 – 12:30\nSitting with Silence\nKSD Johannesburg\n\n\n\n  \nTeaching Topics\nRefuge and Precepts\nSun 16th Feb\, 9:30 – 10:30 AM\, Lama Zangpo \nMilarepa’s Song of Happiness\nSun 16th Feb\, 14:00 – 16:00\, Lama Zangmo\, KSD Johannesburg Temple\nThe teachings of the great Tibetan yogi Milarepa are still practiced today\, and show us what is needed to gain inner peace and mental stability. Milarepa’s Song of Happiness describes how we can become free of unhelpful emotional patterns and limited ways of seeing ourselves and others.\nLama Zangmo will explain this topic and how it relates to our own life. The course is suitable for anyone interested in gaining a better understanding of the purpose and benefit of Buddhist meditation. \nLiving and Dying with Confidence\nMon 17th Feb\, 10:30 – 12:30\, Lama Zangmo\, KSD Johannesburg Temple \nWhen we are truly aware of impermanence\, we become aware of the preciousness of each moment we are alive\, and we can try to make the most of it.\nLama Zangmo will explain the Buddhist approach to impermanence\, death and dying and how that understanding affects the way we live our lives. The talk will cover topics such as getting our priorities right during our life; supporting someone who is dying and developing the right state of mind at the time of our own death. \nThe Three Trainings\nTue 18th Feb\, 19:00 – 20:30\, Lama Zangmo\, KSD Randburg\nLama Zangmo will talk about the three essentials of Buddhist training: ethical conduct\, mental training and wisdom. \nThis talk is suitable for anyone wanting to get a better understanding of the Buddhist teachings and how to apply them in our own life. \nSitting within Silence \nSat 22nd and Sun 23rd Feb – Lama Zangpo – KSD Johannesburg Temple \n“Many’s the person who’s missed the opportunity to say nothing… and lost much because of it.” \nAn overview of the method of calm abiding and insight meditation coupled with practical practice instruction. Suitable for newcomers\, as well as experienced meditators. \n  \nAbout our Teachers\n  \nChoje Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche\n \nBorn in 1943 in Kham\, East Tibet\, Lama Yeshe spent his formative years in education at Dolma Lhakang Monastery where his brother\, Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, was Abbot. After a harrowing ten month journey escaping from Tibet as a teenager in 1959\, Lama Yeshe arrived in India along with Akong Rinpoche\, Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and a handful of other exhausted refugees. On leaving the Tibetan Refugee Camp he attended the Young Lamas Home School in Dalhousie and left in 1967 to serve as Private Secretary to His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa at Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim.\nIn 1969 Lama Yeshe joined Akong Tulku Rinpoche and Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche in Scotland where they had founded Kagyu Samye Ling\, the first Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Europe. Five years later\, having tasted and become disillusioned with modern Western culture\, from the trappings of materialism to the false highs of sixties hippydom\, he was reunited with H.H. Karmapa and accompanied him on a tour of the United States. At His Holiness’s request Lama Yeshe and his friend Lama Tenzin Chonyi established and managed the Karma Triyana Dharmacakra Centre in Woodstock New York which is now H.H. Karmapa’s main seat in the U.S. \nIn 1980 he took full ordination as a Gelong monk from His Holiness the 16th Karmapa\, on the auspicious date of the anniversary of Lord Buddha’s Nirvana and Parinirvana\, at a ceremony attended by the most eminent Tibetan Lamas of the time. Following his ordination Lama Yeshe entered a strict\, long-term solitary retreat under the guidance of the Abbot of Karma Triyana\, Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche. Lama Yeshe also received teachings from many of the highest Kagyu Lamas\, including extensive instruction and initiations from his root guru H.H. the 16th Karmapa\,and from The 12th Tai Situpa\, Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche\, Gyaltsap Rinpoche\, and the Very Venerable Kalu Rinpoche. He later received specialised teachings from Tulku Urgyen who supervised Lama Yeshe’s 49 day Bardo retreat of total solitude and darkness in Nepal. In 1997 Lama Yeshe was able to complete a second 49 day Bardo retreat on Holy Island in a specially built retreat-master’s cabin. \nIn 1985\, at the request of his brother Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, Lama Yeshe returned to Scotland to continue his retreat at Samye Ling Purelands Retreat Centre and in 1989 became Retreat Master with responsibility for the western practitioners in the cloistered four year retreat. Despite his heartfelt wish to remain in retreat for twenty years\, Lama Yeshe was obliged to return to the world in 1991 to take responsibility for the running of Samye Ling and also to oversee the newly acquired Holy Isle Project. \nIn recognition of his achievements at home and abroad the title of ‘Abbot’ was conferred upon Lama Yeshe in 1995. In August 2003\, on the occasion of his 60th birthday celebration\, Lama Yeshe was awarded the title “Rinpoche” in honour of his commitment to establishing a strong ordained Sangha in the West\, and in recognition of his achievements as Abbot and his inspiring example to many thousands of friends and students around the world. \nAs Chairman of Rokpa Trust he has responsibility for Kagyu Samye Ling\, The Holy Isle Project and Kagyu Samye Dzong Centres worldwide. He is also involved in the Trust’s charitable projects both at home and overseas. His energy and inspiration fuel the Trust’s far-reaching activities which benefit so many people in so many ways. Indeed\, he is a living example of the joyful Bodhisattva in action. \nIn October 2013\, following the tragic death of his brother and mentor\, he assumed overall responsibility for the leadership and direction of ROKPA worldwide. At this point Vajradhara Chamgon Khenting Tai Situpa bestowed the title of ‘Choje’ as a token of Lama Rinpoche’s courage and ability in managing such a vast array of different beneficial activities. \nIn 2019\, during a visit to Southern Africa\, Lama Yeshe first conceived of the KSDJ Temple\, the first major Kagyu Temple on the African continent\, that would be magnificent and grand enough to inspire future generations of practitioners\, and be a base for the reincarnation for Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, the inspiration and founder of the southern African Kagyu Dharma centres and retreat centres. \nHis publications include: ‘From A Mountain in Tibet’\, ‘Living Dharma’\, ‘Joyful Living\, Part One’ and ‘Joyful Living\, Part Two’\, and ‘Finding Peace – Meditation and Wisdom for Modern Times’. \n  \nLama Zangmo\n \nLama Gelongma Zangmo  is the resident Lama at Kagyu Samye Dzong London. She became a practising Buddhist when she arrived at Kagyu Samye Ling in 1977 and took refuge with His Holiness the 16th Karmapa\, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. Having received teachings from many highly respected lamas who visited Kagyu Samye Ling\, she was inspired to enter the four-year closed retreat in 1984\, during which time she became ordained as a Buddhist nun. Lama Zangmo completed 2 more long retreats\, during which she was asked to help and advise the new retreatants. bringing the total number of years Lama Zangmo spent in retreat to eleven and a half. \n​Choje Akong Tulku Rinpoche and Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche then asked Lama Zangmo to put her experience to good use by helping to run Kagyu Samye Dzong London\, which was officially opened in 1998. Since then the London Centre has flourished under Lama Zangmo’s guidance and established itself as a much needed Dharma Centre in the capital city\, providing a full and varied programme of teachings and events throughout the year. \nIn recognition of her long experience\, selfless qualities and commitment\, she became the first person in the UK to be honoured with the title of Lama by our Founder Choje Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, at a heart warming ceremony in Kagyu Samye Dzong London in June 2001. \nPhoto credit of Lama Zangmp: Nicolas Laborie \n  \nLama Zangpo\n \nLama Zangpo first met Lama Yeshe Rinpoche at Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg in 1996 where he was a resident volunteer. Shortly thereafter he moved to Holy Isle where he took his first ordination\, and later to Arran where he spent some years\, first helping to build\, and then staying in the men’s retreat. Following this he attained the opportunity to move to the Thrangu Sekhar Retreat in Nepal where he pursued study and practice under the guidance of Drupon Rinpoche. \nReturning from Nepal in early 2021 he spent time at Samye Ling in Scotland\, and then in South Africa before returning to live on Holy Isle towards the end of 2022. Here he took on the role of overseeing projects and associated retreats. In 2024 Lama Zangpo was asked to spend time in the DRC\, assisting and supporting the Buddhist communities there. \nSince returning to Scotland he has moved to the Glasgow Samye in order to help support and grow the community there. \n  \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/ksd-johannesburg-temple-opening-february-2025/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Community,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2025/01/Opening-heading-r1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20241116T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20241117T124500 DTSTAMP:20241113T180558Z CREATED:20241014T183751Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241113T180558Z UID:5583-1731751200-1731847500@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Disillusionment: A Weekend with Dónal Creedon DESCRIPTION:Disillusionment\nA short excursion into Buddha’s teaching and practice\nWe are happy to be hosting Dónal Creedon at KSDJ for a weekend on the 16 and 17th of November before his month retreat at Tara Rokpa Centre. \n“All is hazard that we have\, There is nothing biding; Days of pleasure are like streams Through fair meadows gliding. Weal and woe\, time doth go\, Time is never turning; Secret fates guide our states\, Both in mirth and mourning.” \nThomas Campion (1567-1620) \nWe will explore the range of Buddha’s teachings which address our human problems in unique and profound ways. We will go from the foundational teaching on suffering\, its sources and resources (!) to teachings on the nature of reality\, consciousness and Buddha nature. Of course\, we need to consider how to live these teachings in the great city of Johannesburg. Suitable for beginners as well as experienced people. \n“When the wise\, well established in virtue\, Develop consciousness and understanding. They succeed in disentangling this tangle”. \nVisuddhimagga \nAbout Dónal Creedon\nDónal Creedon is a Buddhist meditation teacher with many years of experience\, loved and deeply appreciated for his warmth\, openness\, and sincerity. He studied and practiced with Buddhist masters of the Kagyu practice lineage in Europe as well as in India and Nepal. This involved many years of intense retreat. Dónal also spent a number of years at the Krishnamurti Centre in Varanasi as resident Buddhist scholar. Thus the radical inquiry of Krishnamurti informs his approach.In 2017\, he published ‘The Main of Light’\, a study that examines the teachings of J Krishnamurti in the light of Buddhist teachings\, specifically the teachings of the Mahamudra and Dzogchen lineages. The teachings of the Buddha and Krishnamurti both explore the most profound and fundamental questions of human existence. They directly address the questions of sorrow\, fear\, and death\, as well as the deepest meaning a human life can attain beyond the travail and illusion of dualism. They point to the sources of sorrow and the ending of sorrow\, to the possibility of living a life informed by intelligence and compassion. As Dónal says: “It is my hope that this study will serve as a modest contribution to what I feel is an immensely important area of human exploration. I hope it will stimulate questions not only in Buddhist and Krishnamurti students but anyone interested in the deep problems that affect our world so grievously.” \n\nSchedule\nSaturday 16th November \nMorning \n10.00 to 11.00 teaching \n11.00 to 11.45 tea break \n11.45  to 12.45 session \n12.45  lunch break – Please bring a plate of vegetarian food to share \n  \nAfternoon \n14.00 to 15.00 teaching / meditation \n15.00 to 15.30 tea break \n15.30 to 16.15 Q&A \n  \nSunday 17th November \nMorning only as above. Concluding at 12.45 \n  \nCost\nA suggested donation of R200 for the weekend. This money goes towards the costs of teacher flights. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. \nDana for the teacher would be appreciated. \n  \nRSVP\nWhatsApp: +27 62 913 4436 \nEmail: johannesburg@kagyu.org.za URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/disillusionment-a-weekend-with-donal-creedon/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2024/10/istockphoto-1188396818-612x612-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20241006T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20241006T120000 DTSTAMP:20241014T175324Z CREATED:20241014T175324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241014T175324Z UID:5579-1728208800-1728216000@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Sunday Morning Programme in Commemoration of Akong Rinpoche DESCRIPTION:Please join us for a special event this coming Sunday\, 6 October\, when we will remember Akong Rinpoche\, and conclude our 1 Million Mani Project. Alan Muller will give a talk on the Role of the Lama in Tibetan Buddhism from 10 am. We will have tea together (please bring some treats to share)\, and then we will conclude with a joyful Chenrezik Puja and dedicate the merit accumulated to the lamas and to world peace. You are welcome to send in your dedications as well. \n10 – 10:30 AM \nThe Role of the Lama in Tibetan Buddhism\nAlan Muller will give a short talk on the role of the Lama (Tibetan)\, Guru (Sanskrit) or Teacher (English) on the path to Enlightenment\, using stories about Akong Tulku Rinpoche and Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche \n10:30 – 11:00 AM \nTea\nPlease bring a plate of treats to share. \n11:00 AM to 12:00 PM \nChenrezik Prayers\nWe will do Chenrezik Prayers together to close off our One Million Mani Project. The merit will be dedicated to the return of Akong Rinpoche\, and the health of Lama Yeshe Rinpoche\, as well as peace in the world \n  \n \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/sunday-morning-programme-in-commemoration-of-akong-rinpoche/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Community,Compassion Practice,Dharma ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20240523T050000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20241008T233000 DTSTAMP:20240523T101528Z CREATED:20240511T184500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240523T101528Z UID:5533-1716440400-1728430200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Million Mani Accumulation DESCRIPTION:One Million Mani Project 2024 \n \nWe will be reciting and collecting Mani Mantras until we reach One Million Mantras starting on the Wheel Day of Saga Dawa Düchen. All who take part will receive the merit of a million manis. Count your mantras\, whether on the cushion\, or standing in a queue\, and add them to the total. \nThe project will be dedicated to the swift return of Akong Tulku Rinpoche\, the health and long life of Lama Yeshe Losal Rinpoche\, and all sentient beings. \nThis is the third year we are undertaking this project. \nWe will start accumulating the mantras on the full moon of the fourth lunar month\, which is known as the month of merits. It is the holiest month in Tibetan Buddhism\, when the birth\, enlightenment and parinirvana of the historical Buddha is commemorated. This year\, the full moon falls on the 23rd of May. This day is known as Saga Dawa Düchen in Tibetan\, and Wesak in Sanscrit/Pali. \nDuring this month prayers\, practice and other virtuous deeds are encouraged\, including practising generosity and refraining from harming any sentient beings. \nPlease email your Mani numbers to johannesburg@kagyu.org.za or enter your mani numbers on the spreadsheet. \nYou may also dedicate your mantras to specific people – you may add their names to the prayer list here. \n  \n \n“The four arms and hands signify the four immeasurables: immeasurable loving kindness\, immeasurable compassion\, immeasurable joy\, and immeasurable equanimity. Chenrezig\, the Bodhisattva of Boundless Compassion\, is the very embodiment and realization of the four immeasurables. The four immeasurables are the vehicles through which Chenrezig benefits beings.” Dodrupchen Rinpoche\, in Pelling\, Sikkim 2019 \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/million-mani-accumulation/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Community,Cpmpassion Practice,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness,Pujas ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20240413T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20240413T163000 DTSTAMP:20240309T084858Z CREATED:20240309T084706Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240309T084858Z UID:5482-1713002400-1713025800@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:Meditation in Daily Life DESCRIPTION:Facilitated by Samten Drimé \nDuring this mini-retreat\, Samten will give basic meditation instructions for people who lead busy lives. He will talk about the benefits of meditation\, and how to integrate it into our everyday life. There will also be guided practice sessions. This mini-retreat is suitable for all – newcomers interested in meditation\, as well as people who need a refresher. \nDate: Saturday 13 April 9:30 for 10 am to 4:30 PM. Bring and Share Vegetarian lunch. \nSuggested Donation to cover centre costs for those who can afford it: R150. No one will be turned away. \n  \nSamten will also be leading practice sessions: \nDaily: Green Tara at 6 am \nWed 17 April at 7 pm: Chenrezik Puja \nThu 18 April at 7 pm: Simply Meditate. Samten will lead the regular meditation. There will be time for questions related to meditation. \n  \nSamten Drimé\, born and brought up in Zimbabwe\, is a fully ordained monk in the Karma Kagyu tradition. He has completed 12 years in retreat – six years in Samye Dechen Shing Men’s Retreat on the Isle of Arran in Scotland followed by another six years in Sekhar Retreat in Nepal. In both retreats\, he was under the direction of Drupon Khen Rinpoche\, from whom he received a wide range of teachings. With easily understandable\, clear\, and down-to-earth teachings he will help old and new practitioners alike to deepen their understanding of basic practice and meditation. \n  URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/meditation-in-daily-life/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Meditation,Mindfulness ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2024/03/tibetan-bowl-meditation-e1743678213151.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20240313T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Helsinki:20240314T203000 DTSTAMP:20240225T190110Z CREATED:20240225T190110Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240225T190110Z UID:5465-1710356400-1710448200@kagyu.org.za SUMMARY:The Four Thoughts that will Change Your Life DESCRIPTION:with Lama Rinchen Palmo \nPreoccupation with our hopes and desires for a happy worldly life often leads to strife and suffering. The Four Thoughts are very powerful and productive contemplations that ask us to examine our lives and measure them against authentic truths. In this way\, we are motivated to progress towards our highest spiritual aims. \nThe Four thoughts that will change your life are: \n\nOur precious human life – how fortunate we are.\nThe impermanence of all things\, and the inevitability of death.\nOur actions and their undeniable consequences.\nThe pain and suffering as a consequence of taking birth.\n\nLama Rinchen will talk on these topics over 2 evenings\, Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 March from 7 to 8:30 PM. \nLama Rinchen will also be conducting interviews. If you have questions about your Buddhist study and practice\, or just need some advice on issues\, you are welcome to book an appointment with Mandi on + 27 62 913 4436. Interviews will be scheduled for Tuesday 12\, Wednesday 13\, and Thursday 14 mornings\, as well as some limited slots available on the afternoons of Wednesday 12  and Thursday 13 March. \nCost: A suggested donation of R100 each for the evening talks\, or R150 for both evenings. No one will be turned away due to a lack of finance. \nOf French descent\, Lama Rinchen Palmo is a highly experienced meditation teacher who has spent over 12 years in retreat and has previously assisted with the supervision of the long retreats on Holy Isle. She is specialized in the Vajrayana practices of Tibetan Buddhism. She is one of the three Western female lamas who have been appointed within the Samye Ling mandala and is well known for her compassionate and down-to-earth style of teaching. She currently resides in Belgium where she divides her time between the Samye Dzong Brussels Centre and the Samye Meditation Gardens retreat centre in the countryside near the French border\, which promotes both outer and inner ecology. URL:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/event/the-four-thoughts-that-will-change-your-life/ LOCATION:Kagyu Samye Dzong Johannesburg Temple\, 43 Floss Street\, Kensington\, Johannesburg\, Gauteng\, 2094\, South Africa CATEGORIES:Buddhism,Dharma,Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://kagyu.org.za/johannesburg/files/2024/02/IMG-20240121-WA0002-e1708888020971.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="KSDJ Temple":MAILTO:johannesburg@kagyu.org.za END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR