Retreat: Where to Find Peace – a Practical Guide with Gen Kelsang Mila

In a world that often feels uncertain and overwhelming, it’s natural to ask: Where can I find real safety and peace?

This special Refuge Retreat offers a gentle introduction to the Buddhist practice of going for Refuge — the way we begin to rely on Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha as sources of inner protection and guidance. Through practical teachings, guided meditations, and time for quiet reflection, you’ll discover how Refuge is not about escaping life, but about finding strength, clarity, and stability within it. 

Gen Mila will explain how we can practically go for refuge every day of our lives. Through learning to do this, we can develop inner protection from suffering and establish the foundation needed to progress along the spiritual path to liberation and enlightenment! 

Going for refuge to the Three Jewels – Buddha, Dharma and Sangha – is the gateway through which we enter Buddhism. By entering and remaining inside Buddhism we have the opportunity to begin, make progress on and complete the Buddhist path to liberation and enlightenment. 

Open to anyone who wishes to come under the Umbrella of Buddhism.

There is a separate Public Talk & Guided Meditation event open to everyone on the 21st March 09:30 – 11:00.

No previous experience is needed — simply come as you are.

What is Retreat?

Retreat means we emphasize a particular spiritual practice.  Gen Mila will give some suggestions on how  to gain the most out of the Retreat. There will be periods of gentle silence observed.

Programme:

Thursday 19th 

Session 1: 18:30 – 20:00  Refuge Retreat Introduction with Gen Mila

Friday 20th Refuge Retreat – A Place of Inner Safety

Session 1: 07:00 – 08:30 

Tea Break

Session 2:10:30 – 12:00 

Lunch

Session 3: 14:00 – 15:30 

Saturday 21st

11:45 – 13:00 Refuge Vow Ceremony – open to anyone who wishes to take Refuge In the Three Jewels.

Lunch

14:00 – 15: 30 Going for Refuge – A place of inner safety

16:15 – 17:15  Chanted Prayers : Wishfulfiling Jewel with a food offering

Sunday 22nd – Going for Refuge – A place of inner safety

Session 1: 09:30 – 11:00 

Session 2: 11:30 – 13:00

Lunch 

Session 3: 14:00 – 15:30 

Tea Break

Session 4:16:00 – 17: 30 

You are welcome to bring your own vegetarian lunch or enjoy the many restaurants that are available in the centre.

Everyone is welcome. Buddhist or non – Buddhist.

About the Teacher:

As a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, Gen Kelsang Mila is a modern – day Kadampa Nun and the resident teacher of Vajrapani Kadampa Buddhist Centre. She has been a student of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for 20 years and ordained for fifteen years. Her teachings are always practical and easy to apply to everyday life.

How to join in?
In Person at Vajrapani Kadampa Buddhist Center

The Woods Shopping Centre, 345 Jan Smuts Ave, Upper level, Craighall Park, 2196

Please arrive a few  minutes before the event starts to register and settle in.  We have a book shop to browse, water on sale. There is secure and ample parking.

Take advantage of our Early Bird ticket offer ending 3 days before event starts.

Become a monthly member ? Affordable Membership options here

If you would like to make a donation, click here.

All donations contribute to the operation and development of the center, providing opportunities for the public to learn and understand the precious Dharma (teachings).

Refund Policy

If you cancel within 24 hours, no refund. If you cancel anytime before 24 hours, 75% refund. Please contact epc@meditation.org.za