Social Service Network
Welcome to the Social Service Network
An active commitment to benefiting others is the natural expression of
meditation practice. It is the inheritance of the teachings offered by
Shambhala. The path of meditation is a journey of uncovering and arousing
inherent compassion, awareness, and skillful means—allowing these to
radiate outwards like the rays of the sun.
"The magical element that binds the words "society" and "enlightenment" into "enlightened society" is the wholehearted motivation by individuals to engage personally in a social transformation that will lead to the betterment of the society."
— Sakyong Mipham, Rinpoche
You are invited to explore the Social Service Network, and the many
endeavors of individuals and groups in Shambhala, who are engaged in
compassionate work in the world. These pages offer a plethora of teachings,
discussions, shared opportunities and projects to inspire social service at
whatever level of engagement.
Social service manifests as presence and dignity. It is an
important means to promote and nurture sanity in society, environment,
education, healthcare, home, relationships and the arts throughout the
world. The practice and study of shambhala buddhist meditation engenders a
deep understanding of tolerance and care.
In these increasingly troubled times, Shambhala emphasizes the innate
capacity of each individual to cultivate compassion and wisdom in order to
give rise to service as a wakeful response to the world around us. What we
do and how we do it makes a difference. Please join the Social Service
Network to expand the view of what is possible in our everyday lives.
Together we can continue to find new ways for engagement that bring enduring
transformation, open heartedness and renewed dignity into the world.
Social Service Resources
Organizations and Mentors
Shambhala Meditation Centres offer a practical path that deepens our
capacity as peace makers, including programs in Shambhala Training, Buddhist
Studies, Contemplative Arts, Dorje Kasungship, and the practice of
Shambhala Governance. Beyond this, we have gathered materials into a set of
social service resources.
These resources include a list of diverse organizations, recommended by
Shambhala members, that provide possibilities and training for those seeking
to engage in social service. There is also a list of possible mentors for
people wish to see advice (see Mentor Program, below). The resources also
include specific teachings for working in the world and a bibliography of
relevant materials. These resources are designed to support a] profound
understanding of the ways in which meditation, practice and study can
transform our ordinary lives and social service work.
members only (password required)
For those who have attended the Rigden Abhisheka (a ceremony introducing
advanced meditative practice), there is a mentor program where Shambhala
members with experience and knowledge in social service are willing to work
personally as mentors.
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