Garchen Meditation Centre Society

The Garchen Meditation Centre Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting peace, happiness, and spiritual growth through the teachings of Buddhism, specifically within the Drikung Kagyu lineage. Registered under the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) with a business number of 788945673RR0001, the organization is recognized as a registered charity.

History

The Garchen Meditation Centre Society began when a group of devoted dharma students in Vancouver requested Khenpo Samdup Rinpoche to establish a new centre in 2015. The name "Garchen Meditation Centre" was bestowed by His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche during his visit to Vancouver in 2019. Initially, meetings and practices were held in a sangha member's home before expanding to larger public venues.

Mission and Activities

The society's mission is to facilitate causes of happiness and peace by sharing the teachings of the Buddha. It provides regular retreats, meditation sessions, public talks, teachings, and study programs both locally and via digital platforms. These activities aim to support the development of happiness, compassion, and wisdom among practitioners.

Programs and Services

• Meditation and Teachings: Offers daily virtual meditation and specific deity practices such as Achi Chokyi Drolma and Parnashavari through online platforms.
• Community Engagement: Involved in charitable events, including feeding the homeless, to contribute to the well-being of the community.
• Teaching Library: Provides a library of video and audio teachings by Khenpo Samdup Rinpoche to benefit all beings.

Values and Vision

The organization emphasizes creating harmonious and welcoming environments. It values loving kindness and intrinsic awareness, guiding its programs and materials under the direction of H.E. Garchen Rinpoche and Venerable Khenpo Samdup Rinpoche.

Guiding Figures

• His Eminence Garchen Rinpoche: A respected figure in the Drikung Kagyu lineage, providing spiritual guidance to the centre.
• Venerable Khenpo Samdup Rinpoche: Known for blending Eastern and Western cultures in his teachings, attracting a diverse group of students.

Affiliations

The Garchen Meditation Centre Society is part of a broader network of Drikung Kagyu centers globally, all guided by the teachings and direction of H.E. Garchen Rinpoche.