Kagyu Buddhism Yorkshire
Kagyu Dechen Dzong Buddhist Centre is based in Harrogate and also holds classes in Leeds, York, Ilkley, Skipton and Ripon. The Centre enables people to learn the systems of meditation and study of the Karma Kagyu school of Buddhism, whose spiritual head is the Karmapa Lama. This tradition emphasizes the relationship between the student and teacher as well as the practice of meditation.
The activities of the Centre provide an introduction to the wealth of teachings and practices of the Karma Kagyu Buddhist tradition and demonstrate their continuing relevance in modern times.
Introductory Classes
Kagyu Dechen Dzong maintains a programme of meditation and instruction for those new to Buddhism. These sessions are led by experienced instructors and provide an excellent introduction to the key aspects of Buddhist teaching and its basic meditation methods. Newcomers are welcome at any time.
Drop-in Meditation
Saturday mornings at 10.30am
Why not give meditation a try! A short introduction to a simple meditation technique, followed by half an hour of meditation practice.
No experience necessary.
All welcome. No fee.
Introductory Classes
Every Wednesday at 8:00 pm
Kagyu Dechen Dzong Buddhist Centre
32 Harrison Grove
Harrogate
HG1 4QJ [map]
All are welcome. £4 facility fee.
We also run classes in Leeds, Ripon, York, Ilkley and Skipton:
- First and third Tuesday evenings of the month (7.30-9pm) in Leeds
- Every Tuesday evening (7.30-9pm) in Ripon
- Second and fourth Thursday evenings of the month (7.30-9pm) in York
- Thursday evenings (7.30-9pm) in Ilkley
- Sunday evenings (7.30-9pm) in Skipton
Major Teachings
We are honoured to host Lama Jampa Thaye, who visits the region to give initiations and textual teachings from the Karma Kagyu tradition, in addition to his regular public talks.
Further dates for major teaching events in the Region for 2010 are:
20th March 2010, Harrogate:
Patrul Rinpoche’s 'Advice Straight to the Heart' and The Initiation of Vajrasattva
Please see the Events page for more details.
Other Activities
Meditation Programme
The Centre runs an extensive programme of group meditation practices including the meditations of Chenrezik and Green Tara. We also celebrate the four annual holy days of Buddha. Full participation in pujas is restricted to those who have received Refuge and other prerequisites of practice.
Study Groups
Study groups provide the opportunity to study texts in more depth. These are ideal for those who have been attending introductory classes for some time and wish to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Dharma.
Thinley Society
Our children's group meets monthly for simple prayers as well as stories, artwork and outings.
History of Kagyu Dechen Dzong
Kagyu Dechen Dzong is one of the principal Karma Kagyu centres in the country. It was established by Lama Jampa Thaye in 1993. Since that time the centre has steadily expanded and now has satellite groups in Leeds, York, Ilkley and Skipton.
Contact the Buddhist Centre
Kagyu Dechen Dzong Buddhist Centre
32 Harrison Grove
Harrogate N Yorks
HG1 4QJ
Phone: 01282-841570
E-mail: yorkshire@dechen.org
Staying in Touch
To stay in touch with our news and events, contact us to join our mailing list. You can also sign up to the Dechen blog.
The Kagyu Dechen Dzong Buddhist Centre is run by volunteers and funded by donations. The Centre is administered by the Kagyu Dechen Trust, registered charity no.1064198.
