Classes

FCM sanghas periodically offer classes on the basic teachings of Buddhism and on the practice of mindfulness. These classes provide an opportunity to introduce the teachings of the Buddha to the wider community and allow current practitioners to deepen their understanding of this wisdom tradition. The classes are presented by FCM members who are senior students of FCM’s Dharma teacher, Fred Eppsteiner.

A six-week Awakening to Life course offers an introduction to mindfulness and meditation for beginning meditators. This course includes the basic teachings on the practice and benefits of mindfulness, with direct practice of mindful sitting, walking, eating, deep relaxation and loving-kindness meditations. The course concludes with a discussion of how we can realize the benefits of mindfulness in our relationships and other areas of our daily lives.

A six-week Introduction to Buddhism course starts with a survey of the Buddha’s life, from his royal birth to his Great Awakening and through his more than forty years of teaching the Middle Way. The basic teachings of Buddhism, including The Four Noble Truths, The Noble Eightfold Path, and the basics of Buddhist Psychology, are covered along with an exploration of various discourses, or sutras. The development of the different traditions or lineages within Buddhism is discussed, as well as the lives of several of the great teachers. Finally, meditative practices from various traditions are investigated. The class format is informal and interactive, with time devoted to presentation of material and discussion. Assigned readings for the course are taken from the writings of several respected Dharma teachers.

New courses are being developed to guide practitioners through more in-depth study of the Buddha’s teachings.