Awakening the Heart of Compassion: The Lojong Teachings of Longchenpa
with Gaylon Ferguson
September 17 - 22, 2024
In this five-day retreat we will engage in mind training contemplations and meditation in the tradition taught by the great vajra master, Longchen Rabjam, also known as Longchenpa.
As the text explains:
To enable fortunate beginners to gradually access the nature of manifest awareness, the Precious Copper Letters presents seven forms of mind training that pertain to the following topics:
- Impermanence
- Fleeting and lasting happiness
- The various circumstances that lead to death
- The pointlessness of all mundane endeavors
- The virtues of the Buddha
- The guru’s instructions
- Nonconceptuality
What to Expect
In this retreat we will engage in mind training (lojong) contemplations and meditation in the tradition taught by Longchenpa. Many Buddhists have studied the mind training teachings of Atisha. Here we will expand on our understanding by delving into the presentation offered by Longchenpa.
Recommended Readings
- Steps to the Great Perfection: The Mind-Training Tradition of the Dzogchen Masters, Jigme Lingpa
- Training the Mind and Cultivating Loving-Kindness, Chogyam Trungpa
- The Practice of Lojong: Cultivating Compassion through Training the Mind, Traleg Kyabgon
- Welcoming Beginner’s Mind, Gaylon Ferguson
Who Should Attend
Everyone is welcome to attend. This is a public retreat for all who have interest in cultivating compassion using traditional mind training techniques. For those who are new to meditation, instruction will be provided.
Overview of Schedule
September 17 (Arrival Day)
- Check-in is open from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Please try to arrive before 5 p.m. to settle in before dinner if you are able to.
- Dinner is at 6:30.
- There will be an orientation session around 7:30 after dinner.
September 18 – 21
- 9:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Sessions include talks, meditation, discussion, tea breaks. Evening sessions optional.
- Includes breaks for meals and rest time.
September 21 (Departure Day)
Program concludes after 12:30 lunch.
Retreat Costs
All prices are in $CAD. Please consider paying by e-transfer, cheque, or cash. Saving transaction fees helps us keep the Centre going.
Tuition & Meals: CA$580
Lodging: Extra: varies by type. Visit the Registration Form or this page for a list of options and pricing.
Early Bird Discount of $100 applies if you register by May 23, 2024.
Generosity Policy: We have a donor-supported pay what you can policy and scholarships available. If you need financial assistance in order to attend, please complete this form and our Finance Director will contact you. If you have questions or would like to set up a payment plan, contact our Finance Department at finance@dorjedenmaling.com.
Covid Considerations
Please read the full details of our Covid policy here.
Registration and Cancellation Policies
Please take note that our registration and cancellation policies have been updated. You can read our registration and cancellation policies here.
Useful Links
What to Bring & Expect at DDL
How to Get Here
About the Leader
Gaylon Ferguson
GF has led month-long mindfulness-awareness meditation retreats since 1976. He taught Religious Studies at Naropa University for fifteen years. He is the author of two books, Natural Wakefulness (on the four foundations of mindfulness as taught by Trungpa RInpoche) and Natural Bravery.
Learn more about Gaylon FergusonCategories : Featured Events, On-Land Programs & Events, Public Program