Menlha Kadampa Buddhist Center

Overview

The Menlha Kadampa Buddhist Center is a nonprofit organization located in the United States, specifically in New Jersey. It is part of the global network of over 1,300 Kadampa centers and branches, offering "Modern Buddhism and Meditation for Everyone." The center operates as a 501(c)(3) charitable entity, managed by volunteers.

History and Lineage

Kadampa Buddhism originated from the teachings of the 11th-century Indian Buddhist master, Atisha. He skillfully arranged Buddha's teachings into a sequential presentation known as "Lamrim," which means "the stages of the path to enlightenment." This tradition was further promoted in Tibet by Je Tsongkhapa, a renowned Buddhist yogi and scholar. The modern presentation of Kadampa Buddhism was established by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, who introduced this tradition to the West in 1977.

Teachings and Practices

The Menlha Kadampa Buddhist Center teaches the New Kadampa Tradition, which emphasizes the use of "Lamrim" to guide practitioners on the path to liberation. The tradition also incorporates "Lojong," a discipline of the mind that transforms suffering into spiritual progress. Additionally, it combines Lojong with "Mahamudra Tantra," known as the "Great Seal" practice, to merge sutric and tantric approaches. This synthesis was attributed to Je Tsongkhapa, and Geshe Kelsang Gyatso is seen as a defender of his original instructions.

Programs and Activities

Menlha Kadampa Buddhist Center offers a variety of programs:

• Meditation Classes: Regular classes focusing on Buddhist meditation practices are available in multiple locations, including Lambertville, Princeton, High Bridge in New Jersey, and Doylestown in Pennsylvania.
• Dharma Talks and Conversations: These provide insights into Buddhist teachings and their application in everyday life.
• Guided Meditations: Sessions vary in duration from short drop-in meditations to longer in-depth practices.
• Kids Club: Designed to introduce children to meditation and help them manage emotions.
• Seasonal Events: Special events are organized, such as new year celebrations and educational Dharma talks inspired by literary classics.
• Retreats: Weekend retreats are based on Geshe Kelsang Gyatso's commentaries on the Lamrim.
• Foundation Program: An in-depth study program focused on key Buddhist texts.

Outreach and Membership

The center offers tiered membership options with varying financial contributions and pay-per-class options for non-members. It caters to both beginners and experienced practitioners, focusing on a Western audience rather than traditional Tibetan Buddhist cultural settings.

Leadership

Gen Kelsang Chogyop, a Buddhist nun and close disciple of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, serves as the main teacher. Local teachers are also involved in guiding meditations and discussions.

EIN and Status

The Menlha Kadampa Buddhist Center operates under the EIN 274498473, confirming its status as a registered nonprofit organization in the United States.