Foundation Program
Foundation Program is an in-depth study program designed for students who have gained a basic understanding of Kadampa Buddhist practice of meditation. It suits those who are interested in pursuing a more formalized and committed group study program to advance their understanding of Buddha’s teachings. This program is a practical method to improve your good heart, wisdom, and inner peace within a group of students who are sincerely putting the spiritual teachings into practice.
Wednesday from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
With Kadam Ethan Lechner
Cost: Students sign up for the Contributor Membership at $65 per month (including during Summer months when FP is not in session).
If you are interested in joining the Foundation Program, please email us at meditationinthetriangle@gmail.com
The Benefits of the Foundation Program
FP students gain authentic experience of Dharma (Buddhist Teachings) while still maintaining our contemporary lifestyle. By studying in this program students gain great confidence in meditation – from basic techniques for overcoming our everyday problems to practices leading to unsurpassed happiness and permanent inner peace. Warm friendships develop as students inspire each other, sharing insights and experiences of the spiritual path.
The Commitments of the Foundation Program
Our Foundation Program classes are offered weekly. As a more structured program of study, the FP does require students to make some basic commitments:
Students keep the intention to attend every class during the FP term (terms are August through late December and late January through June), and try not to miss more than two classes per term
Students read ahead and memorize the essential points of the text
Students memorize the root text and/or the condensed meaning of the text
Students take one exam per year to check their understanding of what they have studied
Students pay a $65 per month fee (including during months when FP is not in session) – however, for FP students, all weekly classes are free, and you get half off the fee for workshops!
If for a suitable reason a student is not able to attend the class in person, he or she agrees to catch up by listening to a podcast of the class.
There is also a commitment to participate in at least one chanted prayer session at the Center per month.
Studying via Correspondence
Students who live outside the Triangle area or are not able to attend Foundation Program in person can request to study via correspondence. If you are interested in studying via correspondence, please email us or call 919.537.9546
Is the Foundation Program Right for Me?
Generally speaking, students are encouraged to first attend General Program classes for a little while before making the decision to join Foundation Program. However, there are no prerequisites for joining other than agreeing to the commitments mentioned above. You may attend a Foundation Program trial class (at no cost) before deciding to join.
If you are interested in joining the Foundation Program, please email meditationinthetriangle@gmail.com .