Foundation Program in Wicker Park
Now Studying: Eight Steps to Happiness
FP in Wicker Park is currently studying the inspiring text 'Eight Steps to Happiness - the Buddhist Way of Loving Kindness.'
If you are interested in joining Foundation Program, you can arrange to attend two Tuesdays and see if it suits you - then sign up! Contact us (info@meditateinchicago.org) for further information about this program and how to join.
Foundation Program in Wicker Park
Tuesdays, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
VKBC Wicker Park Annex
2010 W. Pierce Ave., Chicago, IL 60622
Teacher: Gen Kelsang Dorje 
FP is designed to help deepen our practical understanding of Buddha's teachings through teachings, meditation, discussion and chanted prayer practices.
Students are encouraged to attend class each week, as well as to attend one puja per week. Naturally, there is flexibility for real emergencies, but in general, students' schedules must be open during the meeting times.
Class fee is $75 per month, which entitles you to attend GP classes and retreats free of charge.
What is the Foundation Program?
The Foundation Program (FP) is a uniquely structured study program that enables us to gain a deep understanding and experience of Buddhist teachings and meditation practices. It is ideal for those who have a general understanding of Buddhism, but who wish to learn more.
Buddhism teaches that in order to find real happiness and meaning in our lives, we need to follow a spiritual path. To do this, it is important to have a close connection with a qualified teacher, to listen to pure Dharma teachings, and to have the support of a strong spiritual community. These enable us to deeply realize the meaning of Buddha’s teachings, to maintain a daily meditation practice that is both focused and powerful, and to make genuine spiritual progress.
The Foundation Program has already offered these benefits to many thousands of people worldwide. Classes consist of guided meditations and visualizations, commentaries to the study texts, and discussion. In essence, the Foundation Program is the same training followed by spiritual practitioners in an unbroken lineage dating back to Buddha Shakyamuni. Its special quality is that we are able to gain authentic experience without abandoning our modern lifestyle.
By studying with this program we can make great strides and gain great confidence in our meditation - from basic techniques for overcoming our everyday problems, to practices that lead to unsurpassed happiness and permanent inner peace.
