Our Spiritual Guide
Venerable Geshe-la has devoted his entire life to the learning and then flourishing Buddhist teachings throughout the world. After coming to the West in 1977, he worked very hard to establish a modern presentation of the Kadampa lineage of teachings. His presentation retains all the meanings and insights of Buddha’s original teachings, in a format that is accessible and suitable for modern-day practitioners. Through his great kindness everyone – regardless of nationality, culture, age or gender – now has the opportunity to practice scientifically proven methods for solving the problems of daily life that ultimately lead to true and lasting happiness.
Our General Spiritual Director
Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong
Gen-la Dekyong the General Spiritual Director of NKT-IKBU and Resident Teacher at Manjushri KMC, is a modern Buddhist nun dedicated to helping people from all walks of life attain lasting happiness through developing inner mental peace.
She has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for thirty years, during which time she has inspired thousands of people around the world through her sincere reliance on her Spiritual Guide, taking his teachings to heart and putting them into practice in every aspect of her life.
Before her appointment as General Spiritual Director she was the National Spiritual Director of the USA. A powerful Teacher able to make Buddha’s teachings easily accessible and by example, how to integrate them into our daily life.
Gen-la has dedicated her life to spread Kadampa Buddhism throughout the world. by developing meditation centers and Temples in many countries. She always has a kind word and wise counsel for whoever she meets, and maintains a special connection with them.
Each year, Gen-la Dekyong teaches at the International Festivals, National Festivals, and Dharma Celebrations throughout the world.
Our Deputy Spiritual Director
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
Gen-la Jampa is an internationally renowned, ordained Buddhist teacher and the Deputy Spiritual Director of the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union (NKT-IKBU). As a senior NKT teacher, Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la’s guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world.
Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.
Geshe-la requested him to become the Resident Teacher at IKRC Grand Canyon, and we are very fortunate he said yes.
Our Eastern US Spiritual Director
Kadam Morten Clausen
Kadam Morten is a greatly admired meditation teacher, especially known for his clarity, humor and inspirational presentation of Dharma. His teachings are always practical and easy to apply to everyday life. Through his gentle and joyful approach and his peaceful example, he has helped many people find true happiness in their hearts.Kadam Morten met his teacher, Geshe Kelsang, while attending university in England. He taught widely throughout the UK and helped develop many Kadampa Centers in England. Kadam Morten has been teaching in the US for more than 20 years and has established centers throughout the New York area, as well as Washington DC, Virginia, and Puerto Rico. In addition to his local teaching responsibilities, he teaches and guides retreats regularly throughout the United States and Europe.
Our Resident Teacher
Gen Kelsang Tilopa
Gen Tilopa has been a fully ordained monk and close disciple of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for more than 20 years.
Gen Tilopa is known for his clear and practical presentation of the teachings and meditations of Kadampa Buddhism, making them accessible to beginners and advanced practitioners alike.
Born and educated in Scotland, Gen Tilopa brings his varied life experiences to the teachings of pure Kadam Buddhadharma.
He guides and helps everyone by showing a pure example of how Kadam Dharma practice improves the quality of daily lives at work, at home, and in everyday relationships, and by the skillful and compassionate care he has for students.
