Kadampa Meditation Center Brooklyn — Local services in New York

Before attending my first class here, I had no prior experience with meditation centers, I had only read a few books on Buddhism. I walked in off the street and met Anne and Tom who were members and volunteer assistants for the class. They were so welcoming and funny that I was almost sad when it came time for the class.

I was a little pessimistic about meditation teachers coming in, assuming they would probably be pretentious or try to "preach" at me. Kadam Matthew, the resident teacher, came in looking very normal and friendly. Not only was he humble and personable, but he created an atmosphere where I was very comfortable and enjoyed myself. He made the lesson seem very personal and I felt it was very clear how it applied to me as a person who lived in Brooklyn, and I felt that I had a pleasant, small realization in that first class. In the end I was very impressed by his general intelligence and it was very clear to me that he was very knowledgeable on all topics related to Buddhism

After class I decided to stick around, and I continued to befriend Tom, Anne, and a number of the regular class attendees. Kadam Matthew came up as well to sit with us and he happily answered any and all questions we had.

After such a wonderful first experience, I decided to try a few more classes before I got a membership. Though the class assistants and attendees varied, there was a consistency in the friendly, enjoyable atmosphere, that kept me coming back. After a few weeks I got a membership, and it has been the best money I've ever spent. I found a community of like-minded people who all are seeking something more from life. I would highly highly suggest going to a class with an open mind and no expectations, then just see if you don't find yourself having a grand time and learning practical lessons to improve your human experience.

Further, they are doing an excellent job with their livestreams while the physical location is shut down due to the pandemic.

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Quite simply, as I have written elsewhere, the best meditation center I have ever found. The teacher, Matthew, is extraordinary--so learned and so welcoming to everyone. There is so much knowledge about Buddhism and also practical "how to" on developing your own meditation practice. I also can't say enough good things about the warmth and depth of the community. Everyone comes from all walks and paths of life. This is the single best find I have discovered in Brooklyn and I am beyond grateful. It's a treat, a celebration of life, and amazing instruction in the Buddhist path. I recommend the center to anyone and everyone looking to find a quality, informed, and caring community. They are also welcoming to first-timers and anyone interested in sampling meditation and Buddhism. There is no pressure to adhere to any specific technique and everyone honestly cares about everyone else. Thank you for...

I have been putting off meditation for a very long time now - sure that it would help me but not sure where to start. When I looked up "Brooklyn Meditation", Vajradhara was of course the first to pop up and I'm so glad it did. I attended a number of one-off courses before committing to a membership and really loved the space, community, and energy that Kadam Kyle brings to the classes. I feel very supported, even as a beginner, and inspired to keep up the practice. Thank you to everything that the teachers, student volunteers, and fellow meditators do to make such a welcoming and open space to explore Buddhism and...