Alexandre Jollien and Sarah Coleman: Celebrating the legacy of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche

Just as Padmasambhava brought the buddhadharma from India to Tibet in the 8th century at a time of great chaos and barbarism, the Vidyaydhara Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche is said to be the Padmasambhava of our time. This great Buddhist master came out of Tibet, and was able to tame the barbarians of the West (us!), and plant the seeds of genuine dharma in our hearts. At this time in history, things seem to be spiraling out of control. All over the world, terrible things are happening–not only famine, disease and war, but the spread of corrupt politicians, a rising tide of prejudice and xenophobia, ecological damage, climate change. Everywhere we look, there has been a veritable crescendo of fear and aggression in our lives, and a massive loss of trust in human goodness. But Trungpa Rinpoche’s  compassionate vision was enormous, and his teachings were designed to help us exactly in these times.

He insisted it would be possible not only to help ourselves, but literally to create a “enlightened” society on this planet, one that radiates openness and compassion into these dark times, to bring humanity back into balance with itself and nature. The path he gave us is a threefold process: first, clarifying for ourselves our confused relationship with our thinking mind and making friends with ourselves, technically called “taming the mind”; next learning how to relax enough to open our compassionate hearts, called “training the mind”; and finally conducting ourselves genuinely in the world, so enlightened society can be realized. These are the teachings we will be exploring, and the way we explore them personally is through the practice of meditation.

This program is a weekthun, a week-long mediation retreat. It will consist principally of many
hours of meditation practice daily. Group meditation instruction will be offered, and there will also be an opportunity to meet personally with qualified instructors for individual meditation guidance.

Practitioners of all levels – including beginners – are heartily welcome! Of course there will also be talks by our two teachers. Sarah will be giving teachings from both the Buddhist and
Shambhala traditions that Trungpa Rinpoche taught. Alexandre, in his very own brilliant style, will be adding in the richness of Western philosophy to our brew, including teachings from Spinoza, Nietsche and Meister Eckhart.

Both teachers hope to share their inspiration for Trungpa Rinpoche’s unique style.

Practical Information

Arrival day (Sunday October 27): You’re invited to come from 4 pm in order to register and settle in your room. Dinner is served at 6:45 pm.

End of programme (Saturday November 2): Closing circle in the evening.

Departure day (Sunday November 3): You may leave anytime (no programme). You’re welcome to stay for breakfast.

This programme is taught in French and in English, with translation.

If you require financial assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us: [email protected]

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