DISCOVERING BUDDHISM

Daylong Retreat with Gus Cutz: Death and Rebirth

Sun Mar 26, 10:30am–3:30pm EDT

“If we must fear death, we should fear it because of the loss of opportunity to make our lives worthwhile, because of the loss of opportunity to subdue our minds.” –Yangsi Rinpoche, Practicing the Path

Death is certain, but its time is uncertain. How do we hold such a truth according to the Buddhist tradition? What does it mean to be of benefit to our own future rebirths? Tibetan Buddhism embraces the topic of death, taking it as an object of meditation, study, and preparation. Join this day of retreat with Gus Cutz, in which the topics of impermanence, death, and rebirth will be explored through a Dharma lens. Learn about the different stages of the death process, and the skills to help ourselves and others at the time of death. Gain experience in meditating on this weighty topic in a supportive setting and practice skillful reflection on the meaning of death.

This retreat is the culminating event for Discovering Buddhism: Death and Rebirth, though all are welcome to join.

Important Note

This is an online-only event that is administered using Zoom.

After registering, the system automatically sends a confirmation and/or a receipt email that contains the Zoom meeting link and/or other instructions. If you don’t immediately receive the system email(s) or you have any other questions, please contact us at [email protected].

*Zoom is an interactive video-conferencing tool that allows participants to see one another and ask questions. You will need a computer, a tablet or a smartphone with the Zoom application to attend. If you are using Zoom for the first time, please login earlier to allow any necessary installations on your device.

Schedule

10:30-10:45 Welcome and Motivation
10:45-11:30 Session
11:30-11:45 Break
11:45-12:15 Session
12:15-12:30 Walking Meditation
12:30-1:30 Lunch Break
1:30-2:00 Q&A
2:00-2:30 Session
2:30-2:45 Break
2:45-3:15 Session
3:15-3:30 Dedication and conclusion

Registration

Suggested: $30 per session
Other offering options: free, $5, $15, $45

The suggested amount helps support teacher offerings and expenses, direct costs and rent. Shantideva member benefits will be applied automatically if you have a membership in MindBody. 

Register

Time zone: US Eastern Daylight Time (GMT/UTC-4)

For questions regarding registration, please email [email protected] for assistance.

Discovering Buddhism Certification

FPMT certification is available for those who complete all the components of the course. The completion certificate confirms the satisfaction of having accomplished a comprehensive engagement with the path to enlightenment and is symbolic of your commitment to spiritual awakening.

If you are interested in receiving credit for completing each module, please indicate your commitment to completing all of the module’s requirements by printing, completing, and signing the first page of this document. You can bring it to the first session of the module or email it to [email protected].

Dana for the Teacher

Shantideva Center makes offerings to all of our teachers using the funds collected through registration. You can give additional support to the teacher and create a stronger karmic connection by offering dana. Please make sure to select the teacher’s name in the dropdown menu. Dana offered is passed entirely to the teacher, but please note that it is not tax-deductible.

About the Teacher

Gustavo Cutz is an FPMT-certified teacher and has been an active volunteer with Shantideva Center since 2008.  Gus has been the facilitator for Discovering Buddhism since 2012 and he explains complex material with simplicity, making the Buddha’s teachings practical and always accompanied with enthusiasm and a delightful sense of humor.

In addition, Gus facilitates the Debate Club and leads one day retreats. He has also taught Dharma topics at other spiritual centers. He is working on interpreting and summarizing Geshe Thubten Soepa’s teachings on several topics such as the Four Noble Truths, the eight worldly concerns, and the six perfections.  

Gus previously worked as an editor at Wisdom Publications in Boston. Presently he works as a clinical psychologist and practices on Long Island.