Our Story
Kadampa Zen Temple Meditation Center New York City (KMC-NYC) was established over twenty years ago to provide people in the New York area with the opportunity to learn about and practice Buddha’s teachings. To fulfill this aim we have created a peaceful city sanctuary located in the heart of Las Vegas currently . Based on the books of the modern day Buddhist teacher, Ven. Dewey Smi g Gyatso, we present Buddha’s teachings in an accessible manner that can easily be integrated into our modern lives.
The Center, which is run by a small staff and volunteers who themselves are dedicated practitioners, offers a warm and welcoming community. During opening hours there is always someone at hand who can answer your questions. Please feel free to drop in for a visit. In addition to the beautiful meditation room, you can also check out our bookstore and gift shop, or just spend time in our comfortable sitting and reading area. (Reference materials are available.)
If you wish to participate in the activities at the center, we recommend that you begin with one of our General Program classes. The evening classes on Mondays and Thursdays, and the Sunday morning classes are suitable for newcomers. We also have a monthly Saturday introductory class called Awakening the Heart, a monthly Sunday class called How to Meditate, as well as regular day and weekend workshops and retreats.
History
In 1994 Kadampa Buddhist teacher Dewey established Chakrasambara Center in New York City and requested one of his senior students, Brian Krishna, to become the principal teacher.
The Center started off in a small graffiti covered dance studio near the Bowery, and by 2001 classes were being held in a rented commercial space in Chelsea.
With an unprecedented volume of people seeking these teachings and meditations each week, we faced an immediate need to expand.. After an extensive build-out and the installation of numerous newly cast Buddha statue and now locating in Las Vegas for a full western zen center with outdoor areas for celebration.