Karen Porterfield

Karen became a Buddhist in 1984 in Bodh Gaya, India, with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche.  After receiving teachings from Tulku Ugyen Rinpoche, she continued her studies with many prominent Nyingma and Kagyü teachers over the next few years before landing in Boulder, where she became a student of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche.  Since then, she has followed the practice path he laid out, recently completing her Vajrakilaya retreats.  For over thirty years, she has taught and led programs in Shambhala East Coast centres, as well as serving in various administrative roles including head of Practice & Study and of External Affairs for the Washington, DC Shambhala Centre.

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Upcoming Programs by Karen Porterfield

The Wisdom Weapon of Compassion: Vajrakilaya - Five-Week Retreat

Also with Loppon Lodro Dorje

October 29 - December 3, 2026
The practice of Vajrakilaya is especially timely in today's world of increasing aggression and chaos. This five-week retreat provides the opportunity to complete the Vajrakilaya retreat requirement, which is fulfilled by completing 32 days of practice. Upon completion, you will be qualified to attend Vajrakilaya fire offerings—both Amending and Four Karmas.

The Wisdom Weapon of Compassion: Vajrakilaya - Part 1 (Two-Week Retreat)

Also with Loppon Lodro Dorje

October 29 - November 15, 2026
During Part 1 of the Vajrakilaya retreat, participants begin fulfilling the Vajrakilaya retreat requirement by completing the first 14 days of the required 32-day retreat. This program is also open to those who are already qualified for the Vajrakilaya retreat and wish to participate as an intensive practice. The practice of Vajrakilaya is especially timely. In a world experiencing increasing aggression and chaos, this practice is intended to address precisely these kinds of conditions.

The Wisdom Weapon of Compassion: Vajrakilaya - Part 2 (Three-Week Retreat)

Also with Loppon Lodro Dorje

November 13 - December 3, 2026
During this three-week Vajrakilaya retreat, participants who have completed the first recitation (14 days) may complete the Vajrakilaya retreat requirement by time, which consists of 32 days of practice. Those who have already fulfilled the retreat commitment—whether by time or mantra, in solitude or in a group setting—are warmly welcome to join this retreat as well. The practice of Vajrakilaya is especially timely. In a world experiencing increasing aggression and chaos, this practice is intended to address precisely these kinds of conditions.