DISCOVERING BUDDHISM

Daylong Retreat with Gus Cutz: The Spiritual Teacher

Sun Dec 11, 10:30am–3:30pm EST

Lama, guru, spiritual friend. Whatever name it goes by, the role of the teacher is an especially distinguished one in Buddhism. Because teachers are regarded as the ones who connect our minds with the Dharma, the source of ultimate happiness, the teacher-student relationship is considered essential for making spiritual progress. Yet, for many people, this most important relationship can seem mysterious or even challenging. What are the benefits of having a teacher, and how do you identify a suitable one?

Join Gus Cutz for a daylong retreat where you will learn about the teacher-student relationship and its role on the spiritual path. Come discuss the benefits and challenges of accepting a spiritual teacher, and try out meditations and practices aimed at enhancing guru devotion–viewing our teachers exactly as living buddhas.

This retreat is the culminating event for Discovering Buddhism: The Spiritual Teacher, 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. 

Time zone: US Eastern Standard Time (GMT/UTC-5)

If the registration above didn’t work for you, please try this alternative page, or 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].

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.