The wisdom energy of the Unconditioned, the Buddha, is expressed in five ways corresponding to the elements of earth, water, fire, air and all-pervading space. These wisdom energies are sometimes referred to as the five ‘Buddha Families’ and correspond to the different ways we experience our world. Our world is referred to as our mandala, and it operates in accordance with what one could call Mandala Principle, manifesting either as confusion or as gateways to spiritual Awakening. Recognising our life experiences as mandalas or worlds corresponding to the five wisdom energies can help us make sense of the intricacies of our life internally and externally, enabling us to find meaning even in the most seemingly negative situations and states of mind.
These important teachings are integral to the whole world-view of Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism. The way they will be introduced at this weekend will be inspired by Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche’s approach to them, bringing them alive in a practical way that informs the way we relate to our life and experience. At the weekend you will be exploring the five wisdom energies in the light of the mandala teachings of Lama Rigdzin Shikpo and Lama Shenpen.
This weekend of teachings will take place from 10am to 5pm on Saturday 22 October, and 9.30am to 4.30pm on Sunday 23 October at the Bilberry Hill Youth Centre on the edge of Birmingham. Accommodation, which is simple but comfortable, is available at the Centre, but you will need to bring your own sheets. It is possible to stay on Friday night as well, or to attend just one of the days. All attendees will also be asked to take on a job to help the running of the retreat such as helping in the kitchen or tidying the shrine room.
The cost is £35 per day plus £15 per overnight stay (single room) or £12 (sharing). This covers all meals and refreshments, and the basic running costs of the event. In addition you will be invited to make a donation to the teachers, who receive no other payment for their contribution. To book a place please email [email protected]ku.gro.sha@stneve You will need to pay the full amount in advance to confirm your booking, you can either post a cheque payable to The Shrimala Trust to the sangha office (click here for address (opens in new window) or click here to pay online (opens in new window)
We do not wish to exclude anyone from our events on the basis of ability to pay so if you would like to be considered for a concession or have any queries about payments please contact Jane Powell, Operations Manager, email [email protected]ku.gro.sha@enaj
Bilberry Hill Centre has good access for people with disabilities, however if you need to discuss your particular requirements please contact Jane Powell (contact details above).
About the teacher: Katie Morrow became a student of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche in the USA in 1977 and was authorised to teach under his direction. She has continued to deepen her understanding under the direction of his son the Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche. She met Lama Shenpen and Lama Rigdzen Shikpo in Oxford in 1989. Since 2004 has been studying and working with Lama Shenpen who has invited her to teach in the Awakened Heart Sangha.