The Dharma Centre of Canada

Mission Statement:

The Dharma Centre of Canada is one of the oldest meditation centres in North America, located on 400 forested acres near Kinmount, Ontario. It was founded in 1966 by Namgyal Rinpoche and his students, with the following mission statement: "To carry on the instruction and practice of meditation, the study of philosophy and religion and the performance of charitable works in Canada."

Non-sectarianism:

While maintaining strong ties to Tibetan and Burmese Lineages of Buddhism, the Dharma Centre is unique in its universalist approach to the study of awakening. The program offers short and long courses (mostly silent retreats) on a wide variety of topics, including but not limited to: mindfulness practice, breath awareness or Anapanasati, loving kindness practice, visualization and creative imagination, tranquility practise or Samata, insight practice or Vipassana, Vajrayana Tantra, healing and energy work, yoga, Western mysteries, movement, and teaching Dharma.

The Influence of Namgyal Rinpoche:

Until his death in 2003, The Dharma Centre was closely affiliated with its founder and main teacher, Namgyal Rinpoche. Namgyal Rinpoche's dedication to the liberation of all that live, along with his interest in all formations (including this planet and its flora and fauna) greatly influenced the identity of the organization. Namgyal Rinpoche was unique in his ability to encompass and bridge the traditional methods of Buddhism and western forms of unfoldment and transmit the path of awakening in universal terms according to beings' interests and proclivities. Continuing in that spirit, the Dharma Centre currently offers instruction in the laws of awakening or enlightenment, with courses and silent meditation retreats lead by Namgyal Lineage Teachers and visiting teachers from various traditions.

Staying at the Dharma Centre:

Many visitors to the Dharma Centre come to participate in silent meditation retreats in the quiet natural setting. Accommodation varies from single rustic retreat cabins, to rooms in a motel-type block, surrounded by forest, and simply furnished with a bed, a desk, a pillow and blanket, and carpets. Some members choose to camp on the property in the warmer months. “The centre is definitely a safe haven for those who seek personal, spiritual growth through meditation and reflection.” (Lisa Weaver, page 66, Vitality Magazine, March 2003)

A Server-Meditator program is offered to those wishing to explore the integration of their Dharma practice into the activities of daily life, while living and working in a meditation/study environment.

The 400 acre property has a number of forest trails, lakes, beaver damns, and streams, and is home to a wide variety of species of Ontario wildlife.

The Dharma Centre is affiliated with several meditation centres, foundations, and publishing companies around the world. More information about the Dharma Centre can be found at: link title