Refuge Retreat

14th – 15th Mar  |  9am / 2pm / 3pm / 6pm  |  £24  |  Kadampa Meditation Centre, 54 Peters Hill, Belfast

In person and live online for members

Register on Eventbrite

Deepening Our Inner Protection

Refuge is the gateway to the Buddhist path. In this special retreat, we will deepen our understanding and experience of going for refuge to the Three Jewels – Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha – the ultimate sources of protection and guidance.

In the Kadampa tradition, refuge is not merely a ceremony or a belief. It is a heartfelt inner decision to rely upon spiritual wisdom to solve our human problems. By training in refuge, we gradually free ourselves from fear, confusion, and negativity, and develop confidence in a clear spiritual direction.

During this retreat, we will:

  • Explore the meaning and purpose of refuge
  • Reflect on the kindness and qualities of the Three Jewels
  • Learn how refuge protects us from suffering and negative karma
  • Engage in guided meditations to strengthen our faith and reliance

Through teachings, contemplation, and meditation, we will cultivate a stable inner protection that we can carry into daily life.

Gen Kelsang Chitta is an experienced Buddhist nun and teacher in the New Kadampa Tradition. He has guided many students in the practice of refuge, helping them rely upon Buddha Shakyamuni, Dharma, and Sangha in daily life.

Known for his clarity, warmth, and practical guidance, Gen Chitta will lead this retreat in exploring the meaning, benefits, and application of refuge, helping participants develop confidence, inner protection, and a stable spiritual foundation.

This retreat is suitable for both newcomers and experienced practitioners. Whether you are considering taking refuge for the first time or wishing to renew and deepen your commitment, this weekend offers a powerful opportunity to strengthen your spiritual foundation.

Saturday 14th March

9:00am
The Precious Opportunity Of Our Human Life
Recognising the rarity and great meaning of this life, and why now is the time to enter the spiritual path.

12:00pm
Understanding Samsara
Contemplating the nature of cyclic existence and why external solutions alone cannot free us from suffering.

3:00pm
Developing Renunciation
Generating a sincere wish for permanent freedom from suffering.

6:00pm
Who Is Buddha Shakyamuni?
Understanding Buddha as a fully enlightened being and the supreme guide who shows the path to liberation and enlightenment.

Sunday 15th March

9:00am
What Is Dharma?
Realising that Dharma is the inner path — the actual protection that permanently frees us from suffering.

12:00pm
What Is Sangha?
Understanding the role of supreme spiritual friends who guide, support, and inspire us along the path.

3:00pm
The Benefits of Going For Refuge
Learning how sincere reliance upon the Three Jewels brings protection, direction, confidence, and spiritual progress.

6:00pm
Living Refuge In Daily Life
Discovering how to rely upon the Three Jewels in practical ways — through meditation, moral discipline, and training the mind in everyday situations.

Everyone is welcome to attend this two day retreat. No experience is necessary, and no special clothing or equipment required. A selection of both chairs and meditations cushions will be available. The Kadampa Meditation Centre is just 18min walk from Grand Central Station, and has ample free on street parking outside.

Members can attend our centre classes and retreats online or in person. Details on how to join at Membership.

Our weekly general classes can be found at Classes By Location with special events at Events and Retreats.

If you need help feel free to phone or whatsapp us on +44 (0) 7848 175 415 or email at info@meditateni.org.

Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates