Karuna Bodhisattva Order

Traditionally within Buddhism there are many different thoughts
 and ways of thinking. We find diversifying   interpretations as to how to apply Buddhism. However, at the Karuna Bodhisattva Order they encompass the salient points of all the traditions in that they follow the dharma, the teachings of the Buddha, without any dogma or altered attachments.  They aim to bring the dharma, and make it available to, people of all races and cultures; practising as befits all regions without distorting the traditions or teachings.

‘… I see you and your team Karuna Bodhisattva Order are doing such a wonderful job to represent and attempt to promote the real Buddhism trying to put away western misconception and beliefs. I wish you all the best for your effort…’  - Representative of Shakya Lineage, Nepal

‘ … relating to the Order and the community you represent. It is good to know that you are there.’  -Chaplaincy Manager, UK NHS Foundation Trust

 The Karuna Bodhisattva Order, founding Master is Thubten Wangyal Rinpoche. Though originating   of   Tibetan Buddhism origins, of Kagyu   lineage,  Thubten Wangyal Rinpoche teaches the Dharma and wider practises, including those of other traditions, which can be   encompassed within the Bodhisattva ideal;  importantly

Showing compassion to all sentient beings, & Being at peace within ones self.

 Specifically, the Karuna Bodhisattva Order  is committed to:

Seeking refuge in the Buddha, the Teachings and the Spiritual Community:

To show compassion and understanding, without discrimination, fear or favour, to all sentient beings whatever their creed, race, colour, gender, religion, beliefs or otherwise.

All members are committed to this covenant so that all sentient beings may attain enlightenment;

And members, in the tradition of the Bodhisattva Ideal undertake to forgo Nirvana until all beings have attained enlightenment.

What this means in plain language is that they follow the Teachings that guide us to be spiritually fulfilled and happy within ourselves in order that we can help others to become likewise.
 
The Karuna Bodhisattva Order hopes to bring the Teachings and The Buddha to the full spectrum of the community, whether on a spiritual or life-style basis.

To do this the Order is Centre or Temple-based.

As a way of being open to the Community as a whole, rather than being Monastic, those who take Ordination are ordained as priests. Wherever possible, Order priests are available to act as Buddhist Chaplains for third-party organisations.
They also provide for Order members and members of the general public study classes in Buddhism, as well as Meditation classes. Where possible our curriculum also extends to yoga and other
disciplines classes.

Ordained members who wish to lead a Monastic lifestyle as monks may do so freely subject to suitable residential accommodation being available at a Temple.

Dress codes for Ordained members  can be found in their ORDER OF FAITH: Generally dress is traditional but priests may wear trousers instead of robed-skirts, where appropriate. This is part of the Orders credo of maintaining tradition but also as befits each community..

All those who wish to join the Order shall first take the COVENANT OF FAITH. Though members of the public who wish to partake of our activities and be involved with the Order without commitment are  welcome to do so and are not required to take the Covenant. Nor will any member of the Order attempt to ‘convert’ any third party to Buddhism.  Individual choices are fully respected, any anyone wishing to become a Buddhist must do so entirely of their own decision and judgement.

When requested they are able to provide Chaplains or Monks to give talks on Buddhism, carry-out blessing and other ceremonies, as well as helping with other requests. These services are available to private individuals and organisations/groups. We are able to provide  this service UK , Europe and worldwide. If you think we can be of assistance, please contact us as per our 'contact us' page. We will be pleased to hear from you.

‘.. Your very thoughtful letter concerning the care you could offer Buddhist Prisoners … we will jointly invite you to determine in what ways we can jointly work together to support such prisoners.’  - Head of Learning & Skills, HM Prison Service Establishment