Each year, Kadampa Buddhists and friends from across Ontario gather in Toronto for the Ontario Dharma Celebration (ODC), a special annual event open to everyone. In 2026 it runs from November 20 to 22 at Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada (KMCC), 631 Crawford St, Toronto ON M6G 3K1: an uplifting weekend of heartfelt advice, practical teachings and meditation.
Blessing Empowerment of Medicine Buddha
This year's focus is the healing practice of Medicine Buddha. Our National Spiritual Director, Gen Kelsang Chodor, will grant the blessing empowerment, a guided meditation and blessing ceremony that connects us with enlightened healing energy, so we can heal our own mind and develop the power to help heal others.
The teachers
- Gen Kelsang Chodor, National Spiritual Director of Canada and Resident Teacher at KMC Canada (and National Spiritual Director for KMC Ottawa), grants the empowerment and gives the teachings.
- Gen Kelsang Kunden, Resident Teacher at Avalokiteshvara Kadampa Buddhist Centre in Guelph, gives the introduction.
- Gen Kelsang Chöyang, Resident Teacher at Kuluta Buddhist Centre, is the meditation teacher.
Schedule
Friday, November 20
- 7:30 to 9:00 pm: Introduction
Saturday, November 21
- 9:00 to 9:45 am: Meditation
- 11:00 am to 1:00 pm: Empowerment
- 3:00 to 4:30 pm: Teaching
- 5:30 to 6:30 pm: Wishfulfilling Jewel Prayers with Tsog
Sunday, November 22
- 9:00 to 10:00 am: Meditation
- 11:00 am to 12:30 pm: Teaching
- 3:00 to 4:30 pm: Teaching
How to book
Pre-registration is required. Attending in person is recommended; if you can't make the trip, booking for the online celebration opens October 20, 2026, with recordings available until December 6 (the empowerment for 24 hours only). Vegetarian or vegan/gluten-free lunches are booked in advance, and the venue is wheelchair accessible.
Questions? Email [email protected].
Travelling from Ottawa
Ottawa students often travel to the celebration together. If you'd like to carpool, whether you need a ride or have a seat to offer, we warmly invite you to contact [email protected].
Also coming up
A public talk, Healing with Every Breath, with our Resident Teacher, Gen Thekchen, is listed for Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 7:30 to 9:00 pm (location to be announced).
Everyone is welcome. We would love to see you there!
We should remember that the best way to guide others is by our own example and practice.