Taking the Refuge Vow
Do you wish to take Refuge with Lama Shenpen?
The Refuge vow is made as a formal commitment within the Awakened Heart Sangha and in the coming year will take place at the Hermitage during the weekend of 16-18 August 2024.
It is expected that vows will be taken in person where practically possible, and otherwise online.
Ideally you would have developed a sense of familiarity with Discovering the Heart of Buddhism materials, preferably having reflected upon all the DHB books by August 2024, and feel a heart connection with Lama Shenpen’s teachings in general.
It may be that you feel ready to take Refuge quite soon after joining the sangha and you are welcome to get in touch to discuss this. The timing of the vow is a very individual thing.
If you feel drawn to taking Refuge with Lama Shenpen (or are just interested in finding out more) the first step is to read through the Vows Booklet written by Lama Shenpen, outlining what it means to take Refuge within the Awakened Heart. You can buy it here
The next step is to contact Rangdrol to arrange an initial chat - a space to express how you feel about the prospect of making this important vow and to raise any questions you may have, before deciding whether to sign up as an aspirant vow taker.
[email protected]ku.gro.sha@lordgnar
To prepare for taking Refuge within AHS, it is expected that all aspirant vow takers will engage in some regular preparatory reading plus attending a series of reflective fortnightly group sessions, starting March 2024. (Sessions will be recorded for those who are unable to attend in person)
Please be aware that the cut off date for expressing interest in taking Refuge in August 2024 is 31st December 2023