Lama Pema Clark and Lama Yeshe Parke in Lithia Park, Ashland, OR, 2022.

 

TEACHERS 

For 2600 years, the teachings of the Buddha have been transmitted from teacher to student and from land to land, open to all who seek a path of peace and who wish to lead a life imbued with kindness and compassionate action. In our turbulent world, where the recognition of suffering is inescapable, there is an undeniable need for teachings and methods which pacify mental unrest, cultivate inner peace and lead to genuine altruistic activity.

Kagyu Sukha Chöling, a Tibetan Buddhist center in Ashland, offers the authentic teachings and practices of the Shangpa and Karma Kagyu lineages. Guided by two American women lamas (teachers), the Center is a contemplative refuge and wellspring of spiritual support for the community. Open to anyone who aspires for serenity, kindness and freedom, the center welcomes newcomers and regular practitioners to learn and practice the teachings of the Buddha.

Lama Pema Clark and Lama Yeshe Parke

Lama Pema Clark and Lama Yeshe Parke have been students of Vajradhara Kalu Rinpoche and Venerable Lama Lodru Rinpoche since the early 1980s. The lamas are editors of several books, including Foundations of Tibetan Buddhism by H.E. Kalu Rinpoche, as well as Bardo Teachings and The Quintessence of the Animate and Inanimate, by Lama Lodru Rinpoche. After completing the traditional three year meditation retreat under the guidance of Lama Lodru Rinpoche, they became the resident teachers of Kagyu Sukha Chöling, where they practice, teach and provide dharma consultations.

Lama Pema and Lama Yeshe possess clear and extensive knowledge of the dharma. Their teachings are given with humor, wisdom and practicality. The lamas’ commitment and approachability create a relaxed and heartfelt sense of community at KSC.

MEETING WITH THE LAMAS

The lamas are happy to meet and talk with anyone attending the center. This is easiest during the tea breaks on Sunday morning meditations and classes, or at in-person or hybrid meditations. They also stay after Newcomers’ Night to meet with those who want to introduce themselves.

If you wish to arrange a private meeting with one of the lamas, please email the office: office@kscashland.org. Before requesting such a meeting, the lamas ask that you be a regular attendee at KSC, and that you have determined that the meditations and teachings are positively affecting you. Lama meetings can address specific practice questions you have, or challenges in applying the teachings in your life. It is customary to make an offering to the lamas for their time and advice.

A student writes:

“The lamas are dedicated to bringing the practices and teachings of the Buddha to each individual. Authentic and profound instructions come through the calm minds and generosity of these two inspired women teachers. Their method is open-hearted, articulate and freeing.”


Lama Yeshe Parke (at left), and Lama Pema Clark (at right)

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