Children and Youth are welcomed at the Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism. They are an integral part of the spiritual community and are greatly cherished. The programs for children at Sakya Monastery are created to help support families. They fill an important need that has been expressed by children, parents, and the larger community.
CHILDREN’S DHARMA PROGRAM
Sundays, 10:00 – 11:30 am
Location: Cultural Hall
Teachers: Virginia Hassinger and Rhiannon Mayes
For children ages 5-12; No Fee ($5 donation is suggested to cover expenses for materials.)
The goal of the Children’s Dharma Program is to introduce and explore age-appropriate Buddhist concepts and principles, using creative and varied modalities. Different curricula have been devised for younger and older children so that they are engaged and excited about learning. Included are historical accounts of Shakyamuni Buddha, folktales and legends traditionally taught in Tibetan Buddhism.
There are exercises to help children develop meditation techniques as well as a variety of art activities. Guest speakers are invited to give the children lectures on special topics and there are occasional field trips, as well as opportunities to learn about other spiritual traditions. Parents may leave their children with the Dharma School while they attend Sunday Chenrezi meditation, or join the children’s classes as assistants or observers.
TEEN DHARMA PROGRAM
Sundays, 10:00 – 11:30 am
Location: Library
Teachers: Teresa Lamb, Joshua Crouch, Bryanna Anadilla
For children ages 12 & up; No Fee
Teen Program Vision:
It was the wish of our late, most compassionate Head Lama H.H. Jigdal Dagchen Sakya Dorje Chang that the Teen group at Sakya Monastery learn how to “Be Happy, Make Happy.” Teen Dharma school (founded by Teresa Lamb and Moses Tovar) accomplishes this by studying the teachings of the Buddha and the special prayers and practices of Tibetan Buddhism and weaving them together with the latest sources of information on living a happy life. Teens create the tools to become resilient, empowered, compassionate individuals and to “Be Happy, Make Happy” while meeting the challenges of today’s changing world. We also have guest speakers for special topics, and the very Special ongoing monthly Meditation and Instruction with Venerable Lekshay Sangpo.
Note: In January, 2019 we will begin a study of the book “Radical Happiness” by Pakchok Rinpoche and Erric Solomon as well as continuing special art and journal projects. Also please check the online calendar at https://www.sakya.org/calendar/ to confirm that the Teen group is meeting.
Class framework:
-Refuge and Bodhicitta Prayers
-Meditation 10-15 minutes
-Study topic / discussion
-Optional Activity, such as an art project
