Posted on February 2nd, 2016 by Laura Roth

Highlights for February:

On Saturday, February 6th, we will be doing a cleaning day to ready the shrine for Losar, from 10AM to noon. Volunteers are welcome and needed.

On Tuesday, February 9th, at 6:30PM, we will celebrate Losar, the Tibetan New Year, with a vegetarian potluck preceded by the 21 Praises to Tara and the 12 Deeds of the Buddha.

On Saturday, February 13th, we will hold Long Green Tara Practice, starting at 9:30AM. Please do not eat meat or eggs prior to the practice.

On Tuesday, February 16th, at 7PM, we will hold a Guru Rinpoche, Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the 5 sense pleasures to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30PM. All are welcome. Please bring a vegetarian snack or drink, such as crackers, cheese, cookies, nuts, fruit, chips, juice, or tea.

On Saturday, February 20th, we will hold group Ngondro practice, from 9:30AM to noon.

Sunday Programs at 11:15AM:

Feb. 7: Second half of Mingyur Rinpoche video Sound and Emptiness will be re-shown.

Feb. 14: Marilyn McKee will give a teaching on Tonglen.

Feb. 21: Book study: Into the Heart of Life, by Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo. Chap. 7 continued.

Feb. 28: Laura Roth will teach, Introduction to Tibetan Language.

Tuesday Programs at 7PM:

Feb. 2: Chenrezig/Amitabha/Phowa  Feb. 16: Guru Rinpoche Tsok (see above)

Feb. 9: Losar Celebration at 6:30PM (see above)  Feb. 23: Short Green Tara

Dakpo Targyen: There will be no Dakpo Targyen classes as Lama Zopa will be in India.

Please Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated.

Posted on December 1st, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule

Sunday: 9AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

      10AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

      11:15AM Teaching or other program

Tuesday, 7PM: First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice   

Second and Fourth Tuesdays Seven-Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice, and Confession of Downfalls

Highlights for December 2015

Note: The Doane Stuart School building will be closed during vacation from December 19th to January 3rd. Therefore, our regular Sunday programs will not be held on December 20th and 27th and there will be no Tuesday practice on Dec 22nd and 29th. Regular programs will resume in early January, probably on Sunday, January 3rd. We wish everyone peace and happiness for the holiday season and the New Year.

During the break, there will be several programs of interest at Karma Triyana Dharmachakra: Lama Karma Drodhul teaching on “Transforming Difficulties Through the Six Perfections”, on Dec. 18-20, the Amitabha Retreat on Dec. 27-31, and First Light on Jan. 1, 2016. We encourage KTC members to take advantage of these programs.

Special Events:

On Sunday, December 6 we will have a Members’ Meeting. Your participation is very important. We will keep the agenda and the meeting short, but we need your input. An agenda will be sent out prior to the meeting.

On Saturday, December 12 we will hold a Holiday party from 4 to 7 pm at Marilyn’s. Call or email KTC for directions. Please try to bring a vegetarian dish or non-alcoholic drink to share.

On Tuesday, December 15th at 7PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the 5 sense pleasures to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30PM and all are welcome. Please bring a vegetarian snack or drink, such as crackers, cookies, cheese, fruit, nuts, chips, candy, juice, or tea.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Dec. 6: Members’ Meeting

Dec. 13: Lama Zopa will teach about The Four Seals.

Dec. 20 and Dec. 27: Center Closed

Tuesday Programs at 7PM: Dec. 1: Chenrezig and Amitabha, Dec. 8: Green Tara, Dec. 15: Guru Rinpoche Tsok

Note: Lama Zopa will restart the Dakpo Targyen class on Thursdays, December 10th and 17th.

Please Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated. This schedule is subject to change. For the latest information, please check the website: www.albanyktc.org

Albany KTC Tibetan Buddhist Meditation and Study Center, meeting at Doane Stuart School, 199 Washington Ave., Rensselaer, NY 12144   (518) 872-1629 ktc.info@albanyktc.org

Posted on October 31st, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule

Sunday:   9AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

10AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

11:15 AM Teaching or Other Program

Tuesday at 7PM: First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

Second & Fourth Tuesdays Seven Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice, and Confession of Downfalls

Highlights for November 2015

On Saturday, November 7th, we will hold a Long Green Tara Practice, starting at 9:30 AM.  Please do not eat meat or eggs before the practice.

On the weekend of November 13-15, we will show the webcast of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s teaching at KTD, Benefits of Offering Butterlamps. Hours are Friday 7-9PM, Saturday 10:30 AM to 12noon and 3:30-5PM, Sunday 10:30AM to 12noon and 2:30-4PM.

On Sunday, November 22nd, we will show an unusual but delightful video of Yongey Mingyur  Rinpoche teaching on mindful listening to music.

On Tuesday, November 24th, we will hold a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in  which we share. Preparation is at 6:30PM. All are welcome. Try to bring a vegetarian snack or drink, such as cheese, crackers, nuts, cookies, fruit, chips, juice, tea, or soda.

Sunday Programs at 11:15AM:

Nov. 1st: Book Study: Into the Heart of Life by Tenzin Palmo, continuing Chapter 6.

Nov. 8th: Lama Zopa will teach, Meditation Instruction by Milarepa, Lord of Yogis

Nov. 15th: Continuation of webcast of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s weekend teaching at KTD: Benefits of Offering Butterlamps. See above for times.

Nov. 22nd: Video teaching by Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche on mindful listening to music.

Nov. 29th: Book Study: Into the Heart of Life by Tenzin Palmo, chapter TBD.

Tuesday Programs at 7PM:

Nov. 3rd: Chenrezig and Amitabha.       Nov. 10th: Short Green Tara/Confession of Downfalls

Nov. 17th: Chenrezig and Amitabha     Nov. 24th: Guru Rinpoche Tsok (see above)

Please Note: Lama Zopa is available on a limited basis for scheduled interviews to answer questions and to give advice on personal practice. To schedule an interview, please call Joan Atkins (872-1629).

Please Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated. 

Posted on September 29th, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule:

Sunday: 9AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

     10AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

     11:15AM Teaching or other program

Tuesday 7:00PM: First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

     Second and Fourth Tuesdays Seven Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice,     and Confession of Downfalls

Special Events:

On Saturday, October 3rd, we will hold a Long Green Tara Practice, starting at 9:30AM. Please do not eat meat before the practice.

On Tuesday, October 13th, at 7PM, we will welcome Karma Choephel, translator for the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, to give a talk on The Heart Sutra.

On Tuesday, October 20th, we will hold a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30PM. All are welcome. Try to bring a vegetarian snack or drink, such as cheese, crackers, nuts, cookies, fruit, chips, juice, tea, or soda.

On Friday and Saturday, October 23-24, we will welcome Lama Kathy Wesley back. She will give a public talk at 7PM on Friday, Making Life a Spiritual Journey. On Saturday, Lama Kathy will give a one-day teaching, Aspiration and Inspiration: Deepening Dharma Practice, from 10:30AM to noon and from 2:30 to 4PM.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Oct. 4th: Lama Zopa will teach: Chenrezig: Cultivating the Heart of Compassion.

Oct. 11th: Lama Zopa will teach: Four Immeasurables and Tonglen.

Oct. 18th: Book discussion: Into the Heart of Life by Tenzin Palmo. Chap. 6: Six Perfections.

Oct. 25th: Video of 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, teaching in Germany on Chenrezig.

Tuesday Programs at 7PM:

Oct. 6th: Chenrezig and Amitabha

Oct. 13th: Karma Choephel teaching on Heart Sutra.

Oct. 20th: Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice.

Oct. 27th: Short Green Tara, Confession of Downfalls, 7-Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche.

Please Note: a $5 donation by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated.

Posted on September 15th, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule

Sunday:

9 AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

10 AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

11:15 AM Teaching or other program

Tuesday 7:00 PM:

First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

Second, Fourth Tuesdays 7-Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice, and Confession of Downfalls

Special Programs

On Tuesday, September 1st, at 7PM, Lama Tsultrim Yeshe, visiting from Wisconsin, will give a public talk entitled, Practical Advice for Helping People.

On Thursday, September 10th, at 7PM, we will host a Story Circle with the theme of Buddhist stories. At 6:30PM, we will offer a tour of our shrine room for Story Circle participants.

On Saturday, September 19th, at 9:30AM, we will hold a Long Green Tara Practice. Please do not eat meat before the practice.

On Tuesday, September 22nd, at 7PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok Practice. This is a feast offering to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. All are welcome. Preparation is at 6:30PM. Try to bring a vegetarian snack or non-alcoholic drink such as cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, tea, or soda.

On Wednesday, September 23rd, at 6PM, Lama Zopa will be giving an introductory talk at the Honest Weight Food Coop. The title is Practical Buddhist Meditation for Daily Life.

From Friday through Sunday, September 25-27, Lama Losang, visiting from Florida, will give his popular teaching, The Art of Living. Hours are Friday from 7-8:30PM, Saturday and Sunday from 9:30AM to noon and from 2-4:30 PM.

Sunday Programs at 11:15AM:

Sept. 6: Lama Zopa will continue his teaching series on the Kagyu Lineage.

Sept. 13: Video of the Gyalwang Karmapa’s teaching in Kingston, NY on Taking Refuge.

Sept. 20: Book study, Into the Heart of Life, by Tenzin Palmo. Continuation of Chap. 6. The Six Perfections.

Sept. 27: Continuation of Lama Losang’s teaching, The Art of Living. See description above.

Please Note: Lama Zopa is available for scheduled interviews to answer questions and give advice regarding personal practice. To schedule an interview, please call Joan Atkins (872-1629).

Also Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated.

Posted on August 4th, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule:

Sunday: 9AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

     10AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

     11:15AM Teaching or other program

Tuesday 7PM: First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

     Second, Fourth Tuesdays 7-Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice, and Confession of Downfalls

Special Events:

On Sunday, August 2nd, at noon, instead of a teaching, we will hold our Annual Summer Picnic at the Colonie Town Park, near the Mohawk River. Please bring a vegetarian dish to share. Carpooling is encouraged. For directions, please refer to a separate email regarding the picnic.

On Saturday, August 8th, we will hold a Long Green Tara practice starting at 9:30AM. Please do not eat meat before the practice. Many Thanks to Lama Lodro Lhamo, who has gifted us with a beautiful Green Tara torma (offering) from her Green Tara retreat recently given at KTD.

On Tuesday, September 1st, at 7 PM, Lama Yeshe Tsultrim, visiting from Wisconsin, will give a public talk, Practical Advice for Helping Others. Save the date!

Sunday Programs at 11:15AM:

August 2nd: KTC Summer Picnic at Colonie Town Park on the Mohawk River at noon.

August 9th: Continuation of the book study, Into the Heart of Life, by Tenzin Palmo, chapter 5, Renunciation. Session facilitator, TBA.

August 16th: Video of a teaching by His Holiness, the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa at Tergar in Madison, Wisconsin, during his visit to the USA this spring. The teaching is entitled, The Mahamudra Lineage Prayer.

August 23rd: Lama Zopa will continue his teaching series on the founders and masters of the Kagyu lineage, focusing this week on the life of Gampopa.

August 30th: Continuation of the book study, Into the Heart of Life, by Tenzin Palmo, chapter 6, The Six Perfections. Session facilitator, TBA.

Please Note: Lama Zopa is available on a limited basis this month for scheduled interviews to answer questions and give advice regarding personal practice. To schedule an interview, please call Joan Atkins at (518) 872-1629.

Please Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated. 

Posted on July 1st, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule

Sunday: 9AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

10AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

11:15AM Teaching or other program

Tuesday 7PM: First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

Second, Fourth Tuesdays 7-Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice, and Confession of Downfalls

Special Events:

On Saturday, July 4th, at noon, Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s 92nd Birthday will be celebrated at KTD with a party feast, birthday cake, and sangha offerings. All are welcome. For meal planning purposes, please let the monastery know if you plan on coming (845-679-5906 x3).

On Saturday, July 11th, we will hold a Long Green Tara practice starting at 9:30AM. Please do not eat meat before the practice.

On Friday and Saturday, July 17-18, we will show the webcast of Khenpo Karthar’s teaching on Nyungne, Part 2. Friday, 7 to 8:30pm and Saturday, 10:30am to noon and 3:30 to 5pm.

On the weekend of July 24 – 26, Lama Lodro Lhamo will begin her Green Tara teaching/retreat at KTD. She will be focusing on the text, ritual, chanting, music, and tormas over the weekend. This is a great opportunity for those who have expressed an interest in learning these areas. For the remainder of the retreat, from Monday, the 27th, to Wednesday, the 29th, Lama Lodro Lhamo will lead Green Tara practice sessions.

On Sunday, August 2nd, instead of a teaching, we will hold our Summer Picnic at Colonie Town Park. Save the date!

Sunday Programs at 11:15AM:

July 5th: We will show a video teaching by the Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje.

July 12th: Member’s Meeting will be held instead of a teaching. All are encouraged to attend.

July 19th: Lama Zopa will continue his teaching on the Karma Kagyu lineage masters.

July 26th: Continuation of the book study, Into the Heart of Life, by Tenzin Palmo, chap. 4. Session facilitator TBA.

August 2nd: KTC Summer Picnic at Colonie Town Park.

Please note: Lama Zopa is available for scheduled interviews to answer questions and give advice regarding personal practice. He will be available from July 6 to July 20th and from July 28 to the end of the month. To schedule an interview, please call Joan Atkins at 872-1629.

Also Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated. 

Posted on June 1st, 2015 by Laura Roth

On Saturday, June 6th, we will have a field trip to Vassar College to see Karen Lucic’s exhibition the art of Chenrezig/Avalokiteshvara. In the afternoon we will visit Tubten Choling Tibetan Center in Wappingers Falls. We will see the stupa and make offerings to Lama Norlha. If you are interested in coming and haven’t RSVPed, please contact Laura or Joan no later than June 2nd. We will carpool, so please meet in the parking lot at Doane Stuart at 8:45AM.

On Saturday, June 20th, we will hold a Long Green Tara practice starting at 9:30AM. Please do not eat meat before the practice.

On Tuesday, June 23rd we will hold a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is a feast offering to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings, in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30 PM. All are welcome. Try to bring a vegetarian snack or drink such as cheese, crackers, fruit, cookies, chips, nuts, or juice.

Sunday Programs at 11:15AM:

June 7th: Lama Zopa will begin his teaching series on the Kagyu lineage masters, beginning with Vajradhara, Tilopa, and Naropa.

June 14th: Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche will be teaching and giving the long form Bodhisattva vows at KTD. People are encouraged to go. At our center, we will show a video (TBA).

June 21st: Father’s Day: Lama Zopa will continue his teaching on the lineage masters.

June 28th: Karmapa’s birthday celebration at KTD with free lunch. Meditation sitting will end early at 10:30AM (no teaching) so people can get to KTD in time. For those new to KTD, Lama Zopa has offered to give a tour of KTD.

Thursdays at 6:30PM: Dakpo Targyen class will be held on June 4th and end on June 11th.

Please Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated

Posted on April 30th, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule

Sunday: 9AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

10 AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

11:15 AM Teaching or other program

Tuesday 7PM: First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

Second, Fourth Tuesdays 7-Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice, and Confession of Downfalls

Thursday 6:30PM: Dakpo Targyen Members class

Highlights for May 2015

On Saturday, May 9, we will hold a Long Green Tara practice from 9:30 to 11:30AM, led by our special guest, Lama Karma Drodul! Please do not eat meat in the morning before the practice.

On Sunday, May 10, Mother’s Day, Lama Karma Drodul will teach, Recollecting a Mother’s Kindness: a Buddhist Perspective. Teaching will start at 10:45AM after a shortened meditation sitting from 10 to 10:30AM.

On Tuesday, May 26, we will hold a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is a feast offering to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings, in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30PM. All are welcome. Try to bring a vegetarian snack or non-alcoholic drink such as cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, or soda.

Sunday Programs at 11:15AM:

May 3: Book study: Chapter 2 of Into the Heart of Life, by Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo. Laura Roth will facilitate.

May 15 – 17: Live webcast of Khenpo Karthar’s teaching at KTD on The Purifying Practice of Nyungne: Part 1. This teaching will be webcast all weekend: Friday, May 15, from 7 to 8:30PM, Saturday, May 16, from 10:30AM to noon and from 3:30 to 5PM, and Sunday, May 17, from 10:30AM to noon and from 2:30 to 4PM. Suggested donation of $5 per session is appreciated.

May 24: To be announced

May 31: Book study: Chapter 3 of Into the Heart of Life. MaryAnn Duncan will facilitate.

Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated.

Posted on March 31st, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule

Sundays:

9 AM: Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

10 AM: Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

11:15 AM: Teaching or other program

Tuesdays 7:00 PM:

First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays: Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

Second, Fourth Tuesdays: 7 Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche, Short Green Tara Practice, and Confession of Downfalls

Thursdays 6:30 PM: Dakpo Targyen Members Class

Highlights for April 2015

On Tuesday, April 28, we will hold a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. Preparation is at 6:30PM. Please come and bring a vegetarian snack or drink.

On April 15th, His Holiness, the Gyalwang Karmapa, the head of our lineage, is coming to KTD in Woodstock, NY, his North American seat. He will be in our area until April 25th and will give a public talk at the Ulster Performing Arts Center in Kingston, NY on April 18th. This is part of a rare 2 month long visit to the United States. For information on His Holiness’ schedule of appearances, please visit www.karmapaamerica2015.org.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

April 5: Video – TBA

April 12: First day of new Book Study: Into the Heart of Life, by Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo

April 19: Marilyn McKee will provide a summary of the Gyalwang Karmapa’s talk in Kingston, NY.

April 26: Lama Zopa will begin a teaching series on the founders of the Kagyu lineage, beginning with Vajradhara and Tilopa.

Thursdays at 6:30 PM:

Dakpo Targyen class will be held on April 2nd, 9th, and 30th. Classes on April 16th and 23rd will be cancelled as Lama Zopa will not be available.

Note: A donation of $5 by non-members for Sunday teachings is appreciated

Posted on February 25th, 2015 by Laura Roth

Posted on January 28th, 2015 by Laura Roth

Regular Schedule

Sunday:

            9 AM Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

            10 AM Meditation Practice (Instruction Available)

            11:15 AM Teaching or other program

Tuesday 7:00 PM:

            First, Third, and Fifth Tuesdays Chenrezig/Amitabha Practice

            Second and Fourth Tuesdays Seven Line Prayer to Guru Rinpoche and Short Green Tara Practice

Thursday 6:30 PM: Dakpo Targyen Members Class, beginning February 26.

Special Events:

On Saturday, February 7, at 9-10:30 AM, we will do the Green Tara Sadhana.

On Thursday, February 19 at 7 PM, we will celebrate Losar, the Tibetan New Year. It is the start of the Wood Sheep Year. At KTC we will do the short Green Tara practice, followed by refreshments.

At KTD there will be four days of Mahakala practice from Feb. 14 to 17, and a Sang puja at 10 AM on Feb. 18. On Feb. 19, Losar Day will begin at KTD at 6 AM with Green Tara, and will include a feast at noon. Members and friends are encouraged to attend the KTD festivities, especially the Sang and Losar Day events, and to return in time for our KTC celebration.

On Thursday evenings at 6:30, beginning on February 26, Lama Zopa will resume teaching on the Dakpo Targyen

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Feb 1: Video: Torma: The Ancient Art of Tibetan Butter Sculpture

Feb 8: Teaching by Lama Zopa: Tendrel: The Interdependent Nature of Reality

Feb 15: KTC Annual Meeting

Feb 22: Teaching by Lama Zopa Parting from the Four Attachments

Coming Up: On the weekend of March 13-15, 2015, we will present a live webcast of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s teaching at KTD on Why Buddhists Are Giving Up Meat. His Holiness the 17th Karmapa gave up eating meat because of the intense suffering of animals and his Mahayana training to see all sentient beings as his mothers. Now Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche, who has also given up meat, explains why it is so beneficial to do so.

Note: A $5 donation for Sunday teachings for non-members is appreciated.

Posted on January 4th, 2015 by Lama Zopa

Special Events:
On Saturday, January 10, Lama Lodro Lhamo will give a one-day teaching on and practice of Green Tara, a female buddha.
The schedule is as follows: Teaching 9-10:30 AM and 2:30-4 PM; Green Tara practice 10:30 AM-noon and 4-5:30 PM.
Lama Lodro Lhamo is a fully ordained Buddhist nun and currently serves as the women’s retreat master at Karme Ling Retreat Center in Delhi, New York. Suggested donation $40 for the day or $20 for a half day.

On Thursday evenings at 7 we will continue our Study Group on the book The Heart is Noble, by the Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje.

On Tuesday January 27 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is a feast offering to Guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings, in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30 PM. All are welcome. If you can, bring a vegetarian snack or drink such as cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice or soda.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:
Jan 4: Questions and Answers, led by Marilyn McKee. Senior students will answer questions about topics such as rebirth, karma, other realms, and vegetarian practices.
Jan 11: Teaching by Laura Roth: The Four Seals of the Buddhist View. What you need to believe to be a Buddhist.
Jan 18: Talk by Lama Zopa: My trip Nepal and India
Jan 25: Teaching by Lama Zopa: TBA

Coming Up: On Sunday, February 15, 2015, Albany KTC will hold our Annual Meeting,.

Note: A $5 donation for Sunday teachings for non-members is appreciated.

Posted on November 29th, 2014 by Laura Roth

Note: TheDoane Stuart School building will be closed during vacation from December 20 to January 2. Therefore, our regular Sunday programs will not be held on December 21 and 28, and there will be no Tuesday practice on Dec 23 and 30. The Thursday study group will also not meet during the break. Regular programs will resume on Sunday, January 4, 2015. We wish everyone peace and happiness for the holiday season and the New Year.

During the break there will be several programs of interest at Karma Triyana Dharmachakra: the visit of Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo on December 21-23, the Amitabha retreat on December 27-31, and First Light on January 1, 2015. We encourage KTC members to take advantage of these programs.

Special Events:

On Friday and Saturday, December 5 and 6 we will have a visit from Lama Losang, AKA Dr. David Bole, who will lead a retreat on “The Art of Living,” exploring traditional Oriental healing methods, such as acupressure and Chi Kung, for enhancing health and happiness. Dr. Bole has a PhD in Psychology and is a licensed Acupuncture Physician. He has completed a three-year meditation retreat at Karme Ling and is resident Lama for Gainesville, Florida KTC. There will be a public talk on Friday from 7 to 9 PM and on Saturday the retreat will run from 9:30 AM to 12 noon and from 2 to 4:30 PM. More details can be found in the flyer.

On Tuesday December 2 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings, in which we share. Preparation is at6:30 PM. All are welcome. If you can, bring a vegetarian snack or drink.Possible things to bring are cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, and soda.

On Saturday, December 13 from 4 to 7 PM we will have a holiday party. Call or email KTC for directions. If you can, bring a vegetarian dish to share, and let Laura Roth (434-7420) know what you are bringing.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Dec 7: Introduction to Buddhism final talk: Compassion Meditation

Dec 14: Video: Blessings, The Tsoknye Nangchen Nuns of Tibet

Dec 21: Center closed

Dec 28: Center closed

Coming up: On Saturday, January 10, from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Lama Lodro Lhamo will teach and lead a practice of Green Tara.

Note: A $5 donation for Sunday teachings for non-members is appreciated.

Posted on November 4th, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Events:

On Oct 31-Nov 2, we will present a live webcast of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s teaching at KTD: The Six Perfections and the Path of a Bodhisattva. Beginners as well as longtime practitioners will findthis teaching to be inspiring and meaningful. You may attend any or all of the sessions. Participants may submit questions after morning sessions to be answered in the afternoon sessions. Meditation instruction will be available during the meditation periods. A donation of $5 per session is suggested.

Friday, Oct 31: 7-9 PM Teaching;

Saturday, Nov 1: 10 AM Meditation, 10:30-12 AM Teaching; 3 PM Meditation, 3:30-5 PM Q&A

Sunday, Nov 2: 10 AM Meditation, 10:30-12 AM Teaching; 2 PM Meditation, 2:30-4 PM Q&A

On Sunday November 16 we will continue the course on Introduction to Buddhism. This is a great chance to learn about Buddhism. A donation of $5 per class is appreciated (members free).

On Thursday evenings at 7 we will continue our Study Groupon the book The Heart is Noble, by the Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje. Copies are available at the center for $15.

On Tuesday November 4 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings, in which we share. Preparation is at6:30 PM. All are welcome. If you can, bring a vegetarian snack or drink.Possible things to bring are cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, and soda.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Nov 2: Continuation of Six Perfections Webcast

Nov 9: Video Teaching by the Karmapa: Mahamudra, Part 2

Nov 16: Introduction to Buddhism: Buddha Nature and the Four Noble Truths

Nov 23: Introduction to Buddhism: Starting a daily practice

Nov 30:.Introduction to Buddhism: Taking Refuge

 Note: A $5 donation for Sunday teachings for non-members is appreciated.

Posted on September 28th, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Events:

On Sunday September 28 we will begin a course on Introduction to Buddhism. This is a great chance to learn about Buddhism. The course will have 8 sessions on Sunday mornings after meditation. The first four classes will be on September 28 through October 19, and the second four classes will be on November 16 through December 7. Participants are encouraged to attend the entire series if possible. A donation of $5 per class is appreciated (members free). More details will be in a forthcoming flyer.

On Thursday October 2 we will begin a Study Groupon the book The Heart is Noble, by the Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje. The study group will meet on Thursday evenings at 7. Copies are available at the center for $15.

On Tuesday October 7 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings, in which we share. Preparation is at6:30 PM. All are welcome. If you can, bring a vegetarian snack or drink.Possible things to bring are cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, and soda.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Sept 28: Introduction to Buddhism: The Three Jewels—The Buddha, his teachings, and the spiritual community

Oct 5: Introduction to Buddhism: The Life of the Buddh

Oct 12: Introduction to Buddhism: The Three Vehicles—Different paths within Buddhism

Oct 19: Introduction to Buddhism: The Importance of Lineage

Oct 26: Video Teaching by the Karmapa: Mahamudra, Part 1.

Posted on September 8th, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Event:

An Introduction to Buddhism Course will begin on September 28 at 11:15 AM. This will be a great chance to learn about Buddhism. The course will have 8 sessions on Sunday mornings after meditation. The first four classes will be on September 28 through October 19, and the second four classes will be on November 16 through December 7. Participants are encouraged to attend the entire series if possible. A donation of $5 per class is appreciated (members free). More details will be in a forthcoming flyer.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Sept 7: Lama Zopa will teach on Distinguishing between Hinayana and Mahayana.

Sept 14: Video Teaching by the Karmapa: Changing the World from the Inside Out — Love and Compassion for a globalised World, part of the series The Gyalwang Karmapa in Berlin.

Sept 21: Lama Zopa will teach on The Seven Branch Prayer.

Sept 28: The first class of the Introduction to Buddhism Course: The Three Jewels.

Note: A $5 donation for Sunday teachings for non-members is appreciated.

Posted on August 1st, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Events:

On Sunday August 3 starting at noon we will have a summer picnic at Colonie Town Park. Family and friends are welcome. Bring a dish or beverage to share. The park is located off of Rte 9. About 2.5 miles north of the Latham Circle, turn left on Old Loudon Rd and left again on Shermerhorn Rd, and follow to the park entrance on right. Go past the pool and baseball field to the picnic area. There is a fee for parking so try to car pool. More details are on the web site.

On Tuesday August 5 at 7 PM Lama Losang will visit our center and give a Dharma teaching on A Guided Meditation on Compassion. Lama Losang is the Resident Lama for the Gainesville, Florida, KTC. For more information see the flyer.

On Sunday, August 10 at 11:15 AM we will continue our monthly teachings by the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ugyen Trinley Dorje, on our wide screen TV. We are presently having a series of teachings from his recent visit to Berlin: The Gyalwang Karmapa in Berlin. The topic for August 10 will be a timely one: the environment.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

Aug 3: Picnic

Aug 10: Video teaching by the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ugyen Trinley Dorje, Buddhism and the Environment – Living in Harmony with our Planet

Aug 17: Lama Zopa will teach on The Distinction Between the Paths of Sutra and Tantra.

Aug 24: No Teaching – KTD Monastery in Woodstock will celebrate Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s birthday with a party beginning at noon. All are encouraged to attend.

Aug 31: Video teaching by Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche, the Gyalwang Karmapa’s spiritual representative in North America, Loving Kindness and Compassion as the Path to Buddha Nature

Posted on July 2nd, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Events:

On Tuesday July 8 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30 PM. All are welcome. If you can, bring a vegetarian snack or drink. Possible things to bring are cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, and soda.

We are starting to present teachings by the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ugyen Trinley Dorje, which are available on the web, on our new wide screen TV. We expect to present Karmapa teachings once a month on Sunday mornings at our regular teaching time of 11:15 AM. We are beginning with a series of teachings from his recent visit to Berlin: The Gyalwang Karmapa in Berlin. The first talk was actually shown on June 22, and was entitled Ancient Wisdom for the Modern World. Heart-Advice for a Meaningful Life. The next three dates will be July 13, August 10, and Saptember14.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

July 6: Questions and Answers with Lama Zopa. Lama will answer any questions you have about Buddhadharma.

July 13: Video teaching by the 17^th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ugyen Trinley Dorje, Mind Training — Taming The Mind and Cultivating Loving Kindness, part of the series, The Gyalwang Karmapa in Berlin.

July 20: Members meeting

July 27: No Teaching

Posted on June 8th, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Event: On the Weekend of June 7-8 we will have a visit from Lama Karma Drodul. His teaching schedule is as follows:

Public Talk Transforming Difficulties and Problems into Good Fortune: 

Saturday June 7 at 10 – 12 AM

Teaching on The 8 Verses of Mind Training: 

Saturday June 7 at 2:30 – 4:30 PM and Sunday June 8 at 10 – 12 AM

Refuge Ceremony and Amitayus Empowerment

Sunday June 8 at 3 PM

For more details including suggested donation see the flyer.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

June 1: Work day

June 8: Continuation of Lama Karma teaching.

June 15: Questions and Answers with Lama Zopa. Lama will answer any questions you have about Buddhadharma.

June 22: Webcast teaching by the 17^th Gyalwang Karmapa, Ugyen Trinley Dorje, topic TBA.

June 29: Teaching by Lama Zopa on The Three Trainings: Discipline, Meditation, and Wisdom.

Note: A $5 donation for Sunday teachings for non-members is appreciated.

Posted on May 2nd, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Events:

On Tuesday May 13 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30 PM. All are welcome. If you can, bring a vegetarian snack or drink. Possible things to bring are cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, and soda.

On Tuesday, May 27, at 7 PM Lama Tsultrim Yeshe from Hay River KTC will visit Albany KTC and teach on Cultivating Loving-kindness and Compassion.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

May 4: Teaching by Lama Zopa on The Four Philosophical Schools of Buddhism, Part 1

May 11: Conclusion of our Study group on the Traleg Rinpoche’s book The Practice of Lojong: Cultivating Compassion by Training the Mind. We will finish Chapter 7, Guidelines for Mind Training

May 18: Teaching by Lama Zopa on The Four Philosophical Schools of Buddhism, Part 2

May 25: **Change** Introduction to Buddhism class taught by Joan Atkins and Marilyn McKee.

Posted on April 1st, 2014 by Laura Roth

Highlights for April 2014

Special Events:

On Tuesday April 8 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30 PM. All are welcome. If you can, bring a vegetarian snack or drink. Possible things to bring are cheese, crackers, cookies, chips, fruit, candy, nuts, juice, and soda.

On Sunday April 20 we will have a visit from Lama Lodro Lhamo, who will teach at 11:15 AM on The History and Importance of Tara, the Female Buddha. Lama Lodro has been a student of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche since 1990. She completed three three-year retreats at Karme Ling Retreat Center under Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche, and received full bhikshuni ordination in 2008. She is currently the women’s retreat master at Karme Ling. Lama Lodro has a master’s degree from Columbia University, and is fluent in English, Chinese, and Tibetan. A $5 donation is suggested.

On April 25-27, we will present a live webcast of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s teaching at KTD: Dharma & Everyday Life: 100 Verses of Advice by Padampa Sangye. Beginners as well as longtime practitioners will find these instructions to be inspiring and meaningful. You may attend any or all of the sessions. Participants may submit questions after morning sessions to be answered in the afternoon sessions. Meditation instruction will be available during the meditation periods. A donation of $5 per session is suggested.

Friday, April 25: 7-9 PM Teaching;

Saturday, April 26: 10 AM Meditation, 10:30-12 AM Teaching; 3 PM Meditation, 3:30-5 PM Q&A

Sunday, April 27: 10 AM Meditation, 10:30-12 AM Teaching; 2 PM Meditation, 2:30-4 PM Q&A

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

April 6: No teaching

April 13: Study group on the Traleg Rinpoche’s book The Practice of Lojong: Cultivating Compassion by Training the Mind. We will begin Chapter 7, Guidelines for Mind Training

April 20: Lama Lodro Lhamo will teach on The History and Importance of Tara, the Female Buddha.

April 27: Continuation of the Webcast of Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s teaching.

Posted on February 26th, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Events:

On March 7-9, Lama Tashi Dondrup from Toronto will visit Albany KTC. He will give a public talk on Friday evening March 7 at 7 PM on The Importance of Empowerment in Vajrayana Practice and a weekend seminar on the Amitabha practice, as well as refuge and an Amitabha empowerment. The seminar will have sessions Saturday March 8 at 10-12 AM and 2:30-4:30 PM, and Sunday March 9 at 10-12 AM. The refuge vow ceremony and empowerment will be at 3:30 PM on Sunday. See the Flyer for more details.

On Tuesday March 11 at 7 PM, we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok practice. This is an offering of the five sense pleasures to guru Rinpoche and all enlightened beings in which we share. Preparation is at 6:30 PM. All are welcome. Bring a vegetarian snack or drink.

On Thursday, March 13 at 6:30 PM the Dakpo Targyen members class resumes. Following a review of Gampopa’s Ornament of Precious Liberation, we will study Chapter 7. Admission to the class is by permission from Lama Zopa.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM:

March 2: No teaching

March 9: Continuation of Lama Tashi visit.

March 16: DVD: The Lion’s Roar. A video about the life of the 16^th Gyalwang Karmapa, who founded KTD.

March 23: Lama Zopa will teach on The Ten Dharma Practices.

March 30: Study group on the Traleg Rinpoche’s book The Practice of Lojong: Cultivating Compassion by Training the Mind. We will begin Chapter 6, The Commitments of Mind Training.

Posted on January 28th, 2014 by Laura Roth

Special Events:

On Sunday, February 2, from 11 AM to 2:30 PM, we will celebrate Losar, the Tibetan New Year, after our regular Chenrezig and Shamata meditation. We will recite special prayers, watch Part 2 of the Life of Milarepa video, and enjoy a vegetarian pot luck dinner.

Losar, The Year of the Wood Horse, falls on Friday, January 31. At our parent monastery KTD there will be Mahakala puja from January 26 to 29 and a Fire Puja on January 30. Losar day begins at 6 AM with a Green Tara puja and includes a celebratory dinner at noon. Those who are able to participate in any part of this major Buddhist holiday are encouraged to do so.

On Tuesday, February 11, at 7 PM we will have a Guru Rinpoche Shower of Blessings Tsok. Preparation is at 6:30 PM. All are welcome. Bring a vegetarian snack or drink.

On Saturday February 22 at 10-12 AM and 2-4 PM, there will be a training session with Lama Zopa for meditation instructors. This is for current instructors and, with permission, potential meditaion instructors.

Sunday Programs at 11:15 AM

February 2: Losar celebration

February 9: Karen Lucic, Professor Emeritus of Vassar College, will give a slide show of her recent trip to Tibet. Her pilgrimage included the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tsurpu Monastery, Mt. Kailash (Gangkar Tisay), Lake Manasarovar, and other sacred places.

Februsry 16: Lama Tsultrim Yeshe of Hay River Karma Thegsum Chöling will give a Dharma talk on Meditation for Beginners. Note: Lama Yeshe will start his teaching at 10 AM which is our usual meditation period, and he will be giving instruction in basic meditation. 

February 23: Albany Karma Thegsum Chöling Annual Meeting