This weekly gathering supports continuity of practice with a community of like-minded people. The intention is to bring these valuable teachings of the Buddha into practical applications in our daily lives.

The evening includes a 30-minute sitting meditation, a dharma talk, and discussion or interactive exercises. Contemplative inquiry is done in groups of 2-3 people where there is a question and a period of time for each person to speak. It teaches us how to discern what is true for us while being deeply listened to and held without judgment. It is an expression of how community members support each other.  Open to those new to practice as well as those with an established mindfulness practice.

The teachings of the Buddha are a priceless gift which are offered freely. We invite you to consider Dana, generosity, as part of our practice together, and to give what you can to support Teachers and Sangha.

What the Buddha Taught: Who He Was, What He Learned, and Why It Is Still Relevant

“The young prince lived in a palace with every luxury at his command. But confronted with the reality of life and the suffering of humankind, he decided to find the solution — the way out of this universal suffering.”
Walpola Rahula

In some ways, the story of the Buddha’s life may not seem immediately relatable to us: he was born a prince; he lived nearly 26 centuries ago; and he is iconic, known in every corner of the globe. How are our lives like his?  

Just like us, the Buddha was a human being with bodily aches and pains, endless desires, aversions, and distractions, and he was subject to aging, sickness, and death. And just like those of us who seek a spiritual path, he realized there must be more to a happy life than seeking pleasure and comfort. He set off on his own spiritual quest to “find the way out of universal suffering.” 

Although modern life is utterly different from the world the Buddha inhabited, the roots of human suffering remain the same. In this series, we will explore major themes from the Buddha’s teachings. We will take inspiration from his life story, namely challenging circumstances that he sometimes found himself in, just like we do. His deep compassion and timeless wisdom have blazed a path for nearly 2,600 years that we, too, can walk upon.

Join us In-Person or on Zoom

In September of 2023, after more than three years of meeting on Zoom, we were thrilled to resume gathering in person! To be as accessible as possible, we remain committed to using Zoom as a way for our community to practice together. A intangible yet palpable sense of community is present when we gather in the same room, so if you are able to join us in person, we encourage you to come!

In-Person Gathering Place:
Pima Friends Meeting House (in midtown)
931 N. Fifth Avenue, 85705.

Parking is available in the back lot, along 5th Ave. between 1st and Speedway, and along 1st St. west of 5th Ave. Some parts of this area require permit parking – the signs are clear, so check them if you’re not sure.