Saraswati Buddhist Group
Somerset
We are an established FPMT Buddhist Study Group, who meet regularly in Somerset and by Zoom to learn and practice together.
Our aim is to develop the heart that cherishes all beings equally and discover the steps to enlightenment for universal benefit.
With permission from His Holiness the Dalai Lama the group was named Saraswati Buddhist Group, and was started in spring 1992 by Andy Wistreich and Shan Tate who had previously helped establish the London FPMT Centre, now called Jamyang Buddhist Centre London.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama authorised the name Saraswati for the group and this was endorsed by Lama Zopa Rinpoche when it became an FPMT Study Group.
Jamyang is the Tibetan name for the deity of wisdom. Saraswati is a fully enlightened Buddha appearing in a form that embodies creativity and wisdom.
Saraswati group continues to have strong links with Jamyang Buddhist Centre London and the other two FPMT centres in the UK, Jamyang Buddhist Centre Leeds and Land of Joy.
Over the years many great teachers came to visit, including Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Khensur Jampa Thekchog, Khyongla Rato Rinpoche, Geshe Tashi Tsering, Alex Berzin, Glenn Mullin, Ven Sangye Khadro and Ven Steve Carlier.
All of this was prior to the group formally joining the FPMT in 2010, although the group had always studied and practised within that tradition.
One of the great benefits of FPMT membership is the structured study programmes such as Discovering Buddhism and the Basic Programme, which the group now studies.
We continue to have FPMT registered teachers including Ven Amy Miller and Ven Robina Courtin and also benefit from teachings with Geshe Tenzin Namdak who is the resident teacher at Jamyang London.
Whether you are new to Buddhism, an experienced practitioner or generally seeking a spiritual direction in life, you are welcome to get in touch and join one of our sessions.
Buddhist Roots
Find out more about the origins of Buddhism and how Saraswati Buddhist Group honours these traditions.
What we do
Discover our organisation’s in-person and online programme and activities including Buddhist meditation.
Resources
A range of useful resources including recorded meditations and links to deepen knowledge.