The Foundation Program at Atisha Buddhist Centre provides a systematic presentation of particular subjects of Mahayana Buddhism to enable practitioners to deepen their knowledge and experience of Buddhism. The Program comprises of five subjects based on Buddha’s Sutra teachings and the corresponding commentaries by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.

Winter/spring 2023, we will be continuing with chapter 8 of Meaningful to Behold, Geshe Kelsang Gyatso’s commentary to the classic Buddhist poem Bodhisattva’s Way of Life by Shantideva.

Each week, you’d study a small section of the book, internalize the main points and outline, come prepared to meditate on a key part of the reading, and receive the transmission of the text. You’ll have an opportunity to work in pairs, ask questions and discuss the material. We also have a break, with time for tea and snacks.

You’ll get a deeper understanding of this Buddhist classic and find practical strategies to incorporate into your daily activities.

Even if you’re just curious, you’re welcome to attend the open house/first class and find out more about the Foundation Program and how it works, with no obligation to continue with the program. Everyone welcome to attend. New students please contact atisha.epc@gmail.com.

Instructor: Tom Sepp, Atisha Buddhist Centre
Place: Atisha Buddhist Centre, 1823 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, ON M4L 2B5
Time: Tuesday nights from 6:30pm to 9:00pm
Cost: No charge for the open house, nor until you decide to enroll in the program. No one is prevented from participating in the program because of lack of funds. Cost is $75/month due monthly throughout the year. $90/month if you’d like to make 10 payments in a year.

The link to our live streaming is on our class wiki. Please contact us for the password in case you’ve lost it.

Upcoming classes:
Mar. 21 Teaching 354-mid 361 verses 89-91
Mar. 28 Teaching Mid 361-top 368. verses 92-106

Apr. 4 Review 348-368 verses 89-106
Apr. 11 Teaching Top 368-top 372 verses 107-114
Apr. 18 Teaching 372-376 verses 115-124
Apr. 25 OSG

May. 2 teaching 377-381 125-139
May. 9 review 368 – 381 107-139
May. 16 teaching 381-bottom 385 140-146
May. 23 teaching bottom 385-top 391 147-169
May. 30 teaching top 391- end 170-end

Jun. 6 Review 381-end verses 140 – end
Jun. 13 quiz perp
Jun. 20 quiz