General Spiritual Director
Day 1 ~ Festivals are magical
Jul 24, 2026
Festivals are Magical
Arrival at the Summer Festival
Over the last few weeks Manjushri Centre has completely transformed, taking on its Festival aspect as marquees are carefully integrated into the Temple and around the grounds. As if by magic, everything seems to ‘just fit’ and work perfectly.
Over the last few days more and more people have arrived and teams of Kadampas have been busy preparing the Festival site. Shelves are stocked, kitchen teams kick into action, traffic is directed, chairs are set out and signs are put up. There is an air of anticipation – the countdown to the Festival is beginning.
Then comes the moment when it all comes alive as people start arriving, and this basis for a Festival, so lovingly prepared, begins to function. A Festival appears! People are happy to arrive: for some, a joyful reunion with this blessed place; for others, their very first visit, delighted to be here. Stewards are on hand to make everyone feel welcome and to help orient people as they find their accommodation.
From the very first moment, Kadampa kindness and the incredible organization of countless volunteers is on display. Everything works smoothly and efficiently, and the miracle of a Festival run entirely by volunteers kicks in.
The first teaching
Listening from the Heart
Finally, after everyone has arrived, settled in or put up their tent, and enjoyed their first meal, it is time for the first teaching session – the Dharma heart of the Festival. A full Temple of 2,000 people listens attentively to teachings from Gen Rabten. With great energy he gives a talk full of practical advice on how to get the most from the Festival: how to listen skilfully and from our hearts rather than our heads. He shares many stories and essential teachings from Venerable Geshe-la’s books, and everyone leaves feeling incredibly fortunate to be here and inspired to make the most of the days ahead.
Meeting again
Joyful Connections
After the session there is the happy chatter of people connecting with one another, discussing the teachings or simply enjoying meeting again. The Festival site looks beautiful, lit with strings of lights against the dark sky and with a half moon shining brightly over the forest. As the evening gently draws to a close, people head to bed to gather fresh energy for another wonderful day at the Festival.
Podcast
Summer Festival 2026 – Introduction Teaching
Gen Rabten gives a teaching on how to take the Festival teachings into our heart.
English
