Frequently Asked Questions
I am new to the center. What classes should I take?
I have been studying Buddhism for a long time. Where do I fit in?
What if a class is already in progress. Can I join it?
Do I need to preregister for classes?
Does Tse Chen Ling have a residential study program?
Why do so many staff members and teachers have “Ven.” in front of their names?
If I have a question about my study, practice or life, is there someone I can talk to?
What if I cannot afford to pay for a class that I would really like to attend?
I am new to the center. What classes should I take?
A great place to start is one of our drop-in meditation classes, or a Sunday Morning Dharma Talk. There is always some one there to talk to who can help you find out more about the center and everything we offer. Or you can check in office@tsechenling.org to set up an appointment with one of our staff who can help you decide.
In general, we try to list the level of each lecture or workshop that we are offering, so that you will have some idea if having background information will be helpful. However, unless the course says that there is a prerequisite, we encourage you to come to anything that sounds inspiring. If you have questions about a particular class, please feel free to ask us.
The Discovering Buddhism classes are also a great place to start. They are geared toward beginning students who would like to gain a clearer understanding of the Buddhist path.
I have been studying Buddhism for a long time already. Where do I fit in?
The Basic Program is a five-year comprehensive transmission of the Buddha's teachings for committed students who wish to progress beyond beginning level of study and practice. Currently this is being taught by Emily Hsu, one of our resident teachers who has completed the 7-year FPMT Masters Program.
We schedule occasional weekend workshops on all levels including intermediate and advanced, so keep checking our website or give us a call for more information.
We also offer monthly tsogs for everyone to participate in, regular pujas for group practice, and Sunday teachings with the Geshe-la when he is in town.
What if a class is already in progress. Can I join it?
In general, yes. It might be is a good idea to check in with the instructor prior to attending to see if the class will suit you, or you can check in office@tsechenling.org to set up an appointment with one of our staff who can help you decide.
Do I need to preregister for classes?
Preregistration is really helpful, and strongly encouraged. If you have a moment to let us know that you’re coming, it will help us a lot in preparation, and speed up registration on the day of the event. To preregister, please call (415)295-4849.
There is no need to preregister for a drop-in meditation, a Sunday Morning Dharma Talk or any of the study groups. Basically, if the class is free, there is no need to let us know you’re coming.
If you have not preregistered, please don’t let that stop you from attending a class - you can always register at the door.
Does Tse Chen Ling have a residential study program?
No, sorry. Not at this time.
Why do so many staff members and teachers have "Ven." in front of their names?
"Ven." stands for "Venerable", and is a title that we offer as a sign of respect to those who are ordained as monks or nuns.
If I have a question about my study, practice or life, is there someone I can talk to?
Yes, please feel free to make an appointment with one of the monks or nuns at our center or a staff person to talk about any questions or problems you might have regarding your Buddhist studies or practice, or if you are facing problems in your life. You can also make an appointment with Geshe Dakpa, if you’d prefer. Please contact us at office@tsechenling.org to schedule an appointment.
What if I cannot afford to pay for a class that I would really like to attend?
It is Tse Chen Ling's policy never to turn anyone away due to a lack of funds. You can always make a donation of what you can afford or ask about work study. For work study information, please contact office@tsechenling.org. | 
