• Buddha's Turning the Wheel of Dharma Day Celebration

June 4 marks the anniversary of Buddha’s first teaching in this world and also the birthday of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, the Founder of the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union. Forty-nine days after Buddha attained enlightenment, as a result of requests he rose from meditation and taught the first Wheel of Dharma. These teachings, which include the Sutra of the Four Noble Truths. It is because of the great kindness of Buddha in turning the Wheel of Dharma that the people of this world have the opportunity to follow a spiritual path to the permanent inner peace of enlightenment. Without these teachings there would be no path for us to follow and so no possibility of bringing our suffering to an end. To commemorate this special day, Kadampa Buddhist centers around the world hold special events with prayers for Buddha’s teachings to flourish in this world for a very long time.  

At KMC Chicago we will engage in the blessed, traditional prayers Offering to the Spiritual Guide (Tib. Lama Chopa), which includes prayers of all the stages of the path to Enlightenment.  It is customary--but not necessary--to bring an offering of fresh food or flowers.  No previous experience is necessary--everyone is invited to attend.

Sign our e-card for Geshe-la here!

In Person: advance registration (below) is required to attend in person

Online: use the link in the calendar to join live online

Booklet: booklets with the text of the prayers will be available for for those attending in person. For those participating online, it's available in print and e-book formats from Tharpa Publications: Offering to the Spiritual Guide booklet.

Cost: FREE!