November "One Community" Gathering

This month’s Sangha gathering is: Thursday, November 7th, 5:30-7:30 pm MDT

Aspiration and the Importance of Prayer

In the west, we can often find ourselves turning only to meditative techniques in our approach to Buddhist practice. However, there are many other methods traditionally used which can enhance the power of our practice and work on our minds from different angles.

Aspiration is one important method amongst those. Many of us in the west who were brought up religious may have some aversion to praying, but in the Buddhist tradition, aspiration prayers aren’t really prayers to another being or god, but are aspirations for ourselves to more deeply embody the principles and practices we are working with. In the countries in which Buddhism is traditionally practiced, it is the norm for families to say evening prayers together, praying for world peace, freedom and enlightenment for all, and so forth.

When we aspire for freedom and enlightenment for ourselves and others, we are subtly placing seeds in our minds for the fulfillment of those wishes. How can we attain something that we don’t deeply wish for in the first place? By saying aspiration prayers again and again, we deepen our commitment to the path, to the development of compassion and bodhicitta, to experience reality as it is, and ultimately, to attain buddhahood for the sake of all living beings.

Details:

This month’s Sangha gathering: Thursday, November 7th, 5:30-7:30 pm MDT

Location: Online or in person in Missoula, MT

Justin Kirkwood will be teaching in person in Missoula. For those located in Missoula, you are welcome to join a group who will be receiving the teaching together at the Namchak office. For those unable to join in person, the teaching will also be live-streamed via Zoom.

About Justin Kirkwood

Justin Kirkwood is a dedicated dharma student and teacher with over 20 years of experience in studying and practicing Buddhism. Formally trained in monastic universities in India, Justin had the privilege of studying and practicing with many renowned Tibetan masters. He has also worked as a Tibetan translator and interpreter for over fifteen years, deepening his understanding of the sacred texts. Justin is a vital member of the Namchak Foundation, serving as a translator of texts, an interpreter for Namchak Khen Rinpoche, and a teacher.

About One Community

For one evening each month, we come together as a community to deepen our understanding of the dharma and connect with our fellow sangha members. Each gathering is facilitated by a different Namchak teacher, thought leader, or staff member and will revolve around our month's theme. These gatherings are two hours in total. The first half will consist of a dharma talk, and the second half will offer an opportunity for participants to reflect on the teachings through small group discussions in short break-out sessions. These group discussions will be followed by a Q&A session with the teacher. Participation in small group discussions is encouraged but not required. You can always sit these out! We encourage Learning Circles and meditation buddies to attend together. Inviting friends, partners, family members, neighbors, and co-workers is always welcome.

Address and Zoom Link

Missoula address and Zoom link will be provided upon registration.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Namchak Buddhist Practice and Retreat, 250 Station Drive, Missoula, United States