Buddhism 101 Course: The Heart of Buddhist Grace
2 SPOTS LEFT!!!!
Registration is extended to November 2, 11:59 p.m.
What if the path to awakening wasn’t about effort, discipline, or renouncing the world—but about entrusting yourself to a wisdom and compassion far greater than your own? Shin Buddhism offers a path unlike any other—a way for ordinary people, in the midst of daily life, to experience deep spiritual liberation.
In this illuminating 3-session, 5-week online course, we explore the profound teachings of self-power and Other-Power, the nature of true entrusting (shinjin), and how awakening arises not from self-perfection, but from embracing our imperfections with radical honesty and gratitude. The Pure Land is not a faraway paradise; it is a reality unfolding in each moment, inviting us to see life with new eyes. Shinjin is not belief; it is an inner shift, a surrender to grace, where struggle gives way to trust, and striving dissolves into peace.
Through deep listening, reflection, and discussion, we will explore how these teachings transform suffering into peace, doubt into faith, and isolation into connection. Shin Buddhism has offered wisdom and refuge to millions for centuries, revealing a path of resilience, humility, and boundless compassion—one that meets us exactly where we are.
If you’ve ever felt that traditional paths of awakening were beyond your reach, this course will show you another way. Come as you are. Discover the awakening that is already waiting for you.
The modules are not sequential, so you can take them in any order, depending on your interests and schedule. With open enrollment, this flexible format allows anyone to join at any time, making it easy to explore Buddhism on your own terms.
All modules in the Buddhism 101 series, including this 3-sessions, 5-week course, offer insightful class discussions and ample opportunities to learn, practice essential spiritual tools, and practices, guiding you toward awakening to your true nature, the Oneness of Reality, and discovering your life’s purpose.
Nov. 9 & 23. River of Fire, River of Water by Taitetsu Unno
Dec. 7. Buddhism of the Heart by Jeff Wilson
We also want to let you know that the Buddhist Faith Fellowship is part of the non-profit Amazon Affiliate Program. This means that when you purchase any item through our affiliate links above (click on book titles), a small portion of the sale helps us cover operating costs and fund our programs. Your support allows us to continue and expand our offerings, bringing the Dharma to more people. Thank you for walking this path with us!
Pre-requisites: none - ideal for beginners and the curious or those who need a refresher
Education & Requirements:This course uses 2 easy-to-read and engaging books to explore basic Shin Buddhist teachings, philosophy. way of life, and practices in a practical and accessible way for beginner and intermediate practitioners or just the curious. Course requirements are the following:
Attendance & Commitment: If you live in Connecticut, all students should strive for a 75% Sunday morning Practice & Talk Meeting attendance record from the beginning to the end of the course. If you live outside of Connecticut, you should seek a local Buddhist group in your area (if there is one). This is part of the sedimentation process that allows us to assimilate the teachings into our daily life and to learn from other experienced teachers. Community practice is an important component of the Buddha’s Way to spiritual transformation. We cannot do it alone and we need the sangha (community of practitioners) to help us along the journey.
Absences from classes: All students are allowed just one absence from a class but assignments must be delivered via e-mail before the missed class. Attendance will be taken.
Discipline: In order to experience spiritual transformation and realize understanding one must be committed to the process such as practicing at home, work and in relationships, attending the classes, a local Buddhist practice meeting, and completing all of the assignments. Our 101 course is not a book discussion group but is a structured program to help you live the Buddha’s teachings in everyday life.
Assignments: All assignments are based on the readings and will be sent to students via e-mail. They must be completed and handed in at the time of the class. First homework assignment is due on the first-class meeting.
Books: Students are responsible to purchase their course books at a local bookseller or online. We suggest students purchase the books well in advance in order to allow enough time for delivery & the completion of the 1st assignment.
Contribution: $195.
Open Enrollment ends October 31, 2025 (Extended to 11/2/25)
Time, Frequency & Place: It will meet 3x, on Sunday evenings for 5 weeks. Online classes will be approx. 90 minutes – 2.5 hours each , 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. EST (USA & Canada) or (GMT-5). See dates above. The unique Zoom link will be sent to registered students.
Teacher: Rev. D. Senpai, M.A., BFF of CT's guiding teacher and Shin practicer, and student of Venerable Thich Tri Hong and the esteemed and late Dr. (Rev.) Taitetsu Unno, will be the instructor for this course.
Registration Agreement:
By registering, I confirm that I have read and agreed to the Refund Policy, Disclaimer of Responsibility, Code of Conduct & Image Release Agreement below.
Refund Policy:
No refunds will be granted for no-shows, cancellations, or non-completion of any course, workshop, retreat, program, or online offering, except in cases where the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT) cancels or withdraws the offering entirely. By registering for any in-person or online course, workshop, retreat, or program facilitated by BFF of CT, I acknowledge and agree to abide by this Refund Policy. All purchases of online courses or supplementary services (e.g., private or group Q&A sessions) are final, unless otherwise specified by BFF of CT at the time of purchase.
Disclaimer of Responsibility:
By registering for any in-person or online course, workshop, retreat, or program offered by the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT), I acknowledge that participation is at my own risk. I hereby waive, release, and discharge BFF of CT, its staff, volunteers, affiliates, and representatives from any and all claims, liabilities, or causes of action arising from damages, loss, injury, accident, or death due to negligence or any other act or omission related to the provision of services, activities, or content (including online materials) associated with this offering. This waiver applies to both in-person and virtual participation, as well as the use of any online course materials provided by BFF of CT.
Code of Conduct:
To foster a respectful, inclusive, and positive learning environment within the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT) community—whether in-person or online—I agree to adhere to the following standards of behavior. I will engage in kind, courteous, and respectful actions and speech, and I will refrain from: (1) physical, verbal, or emotional abuse or harassment; (2) possessing, using, or being under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or illegal substances during any BFF of CT event or interaction; (3) engaging in sexual harassment or misconduct; (4) using harmful, harsh, politically partisan, racist, or demeaning language; (5) acting or speaking divisively to disrupt the BFF of CT community; and (6) engaging in any unlawful activities (which will be reported to the appropriate authorities). I understand that this Code of Conduct applies to all in-person and virtual interactions, including online courses and live Q&A sessions. If I fail to comply, I may be immediately removed from the premises or online platform, temporarily or permanently, at the discretion of BFF of CT, and I will forfeit any refunds or payments made for the course, workshop, retreat, program, or online offering.
Image and Media Release Agreement:
By registering for this course, workshop, retreat, or program, I authorize the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT) and its representatives to photograph, record audio, and/or video of me during in-person or virtual sessions, without compensation. I grant BFF of CT the irrevocable and unrestricted right to use, reproduce, edit, distribute, and display such photographs, audio, and video recordings—including my image, likeness, and voice—for promotional, educational, and commercial purposes. This includes, but is not limited to, use in digital formats (e.g., online courses, websites, social media) and printed materials. I understand that these recordings may be repurposed into online courses or other offerings sold or distributed by BFF of CT. I agree that all such media, whether digital or physical, are the sole property of BFF of CT, and I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished product or to claim royalties or additional compensation. I also release BFF of CT, its staff, volunteers, and affiliates from any liability related to the use of my image, likeness, or voice as outlined herein.
Registration is extended to November 2, 11:59 p.m.
What if the path to awakening wasn’t about effort, discipline, or renouncing the world—but about entrusting yourself to a wisdom and compassion far greater than your own? Shin Buddhism offers a path unlike any other—a way for ordinary people, in the midst of daily life, to experience deep spiritual liberation.
In this illuminating 3-session, 5-week online course, we explore the profound teachings of self-power and Other-Power, the nature of true entrusting (shinjin), and how awakening arises not from self-perfection, but from embracing our imperfections with radical honesty and gratitude. The Pure Land is not a faraway paradise; it is a reality unfolding in each moment, inviting us to see life with new eyes. Shinjin is not belief; it is an inner shift, a surrender to grace, where struggle gives way to trust, and striving dissolves into peace.
Through deep listening, reflection, and discussion, we will explore how these teachings transform suffering into peace, doubt into faith, and isolation into connection. Shin Buddhism has offered wisdom and refuge to millions for centuries, revealing a path of resilience, humility, and boundless compassion—one that meets us exactly where we are.
If you’ve ever felt that traditional paths of awakening were beyond your reach, this course will show you another way. Come as you are. Discover the awakening that is already waiting for you.
Buddhism 101: Module 4 – Open Enrollment, No Prerequisites
This Module 4 course is part of the Buddhism 101 course series, designed to offer accessible and engaging introductions to various aspects of Buddhist philosophy and practice. Each module in this series stands alone, meaning you can enroll in any module without needing to complete others first. Whether you’re new to Buddhism or deepening an existing practice, you can jump into the topics that interest you most without worrying about prerequisites.The modules are not sequential, so you can take them in any order, depending on your interests and schedule. With open enrollment, this flexible format allows anyone to join at any time, making it easy to explore Buddhism on your own terms.
All modules in the Buddhism 101 series, including this 3-sessions, 5-week course, offer insightful class discussions and ample opportunities to learn, practice essential spiritual tools, and practices, guiding you toward awakening to your true nature, the Oneness of Reality, and discovering your life’s purpose.
Dates & Book Selection
Click on book titles or image to order:Nov. 9 & 23. River of Fire, River of Water by Taitetsu Unno
Dec. 7. Buddhism of the Heart by Jeff Wilson
We also want to let you know that the Buddhist Faith Fellowship is part of the non-profit Amazon Affiliate Program. This means that when you purchase any item through our affiliate links above (click on book titles), a small portion of the sale helps us cover operating costs and fund our programs. Your support allows us to continue and expand our offerings, bringing the Dharma to more people. Thank you for walking this path with us!
The Course
Pre-requisites: none - ideal for beginners and the curious or those who need a refresher
Education & Requirements:This course uses 2 easy-to-read and engaging books to explore basic Shin Buddhist teachings, philosophy. way of life, and practices in a practical and accessible way for beginner and intermediate practitioners or just the curious. Course requirements are the following:
- Read the books and complete the assignments.
- Attend the online classes.
- Attend our Sunday morning gathering if your live in Connecticut or local group.
- Apply and Practice what is learned.
Attendance & Commitment: If you live in Connecticut, all students should strive for a 75% Sunday morning Practice & Talk Meeting attendance record from the beginning to the end of the course. If you live outside of Connecticut, you should seek a local Buddhist group in your area (if there is one). This is part of the sedimentation process that allows us to assimilate the teachings into our daily life and to learn from other experienced teachers. Community practice is an important component of the Buddha’s Way to spiritual transformation. We cannot do it alone and we need the sangha (community of practitioners) to help us along the journey.
Absences from classes: All students are allowed just one absence from a class but assignments must be delivered via e-mail before the missed class. Attendance will be taken.
Discipline: In order to experience spiritual transformation and realize understanding one must be committed to the process such as practicing at home, work and in relationships, attending the classes, a local Buddhist practice meeting, and completing all of the assignments. Our 101 course is not a book discussion group but is a structured program to help you live the Buddha’s teachings in everyday life.
Assignments: All assignments are based on the readings and will be sent to students via e-mail. They must be completed and handed in at the time of the class. First homework assignment is due on the first-class meeting.
Books: Students are responsible to purchase their course books at a local bookseller or online. We suggest students purchase the books well in advance in order to allow enough time for delivery & the completion of the 1st assignment.
Contribution: $195.
Open Enrollment ends October 31, 2025 (Extended to 11/2/25)
Time, Frequency & Place: It will meet 3x, on Sunday evenings for 5 weeks. Online classes will be approx. 90 minutes – 2.5 hours each , 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. EST (USA & Canada) or (GMT-5). See dates above. The unique Zoom link will be sent to registered students.
Teacher: Rev. D. Senpai, M.A., BFF of CT's guiding teacher and Shin practicer, and student of Venerable Thich Tri Hong and the esteemed and late Dr. (Rev.) Taitetsu Unno, will be the instructor for this course.
Registration Agreement:
By registering, I confirm that I have read and agreed to the Refund Policy, Disclaimer of Responsibility, Code of Conduct & Image Release Agreement below.
Refund Policy:
No refunds will be granted for no-shows, cancellations, or non-completion of any course, workshop, retreat, program, or online offering, except in cases where the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT) cancels or withdraws the offering entirely. By registering for any in-person or online course, workshop, retreat, or program facilitated by BFF of CT, I acknowledge and agree to abide by this Refund Policy. All purchases of online courses or supplementary services (e.g., private or group Q&A sessions) are final, unless otherwise specified by BFF of CT at the time of purchase.
Disclaimer of Responsibility:
By registering for any in-person or online course, workshop, retreat, or program offered by the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT), I acknowledge that participation is at my own risk. I hereby waive, release, and discharge BFF of CT, its staff, volunteers, affiliates, and representatives from any and all claims, liabilities, or causes of action arising from damages, loss, injury, accident, or death due to negligence or any other act or omission related to the provision of services, activities, or content (including online materials) associated with this offering. This waiver applies to both in-person and virtual participation, as well as the use of any online course materials provided by BFF of CT.
Code of Conduct:
To foster a respectful, inclusive, and positive learning environment within the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT) community—whether in-person or online—I agree to adhere to the following standards of behavior. I will engage in kind, courteous, and respectful actions and speech, and I will refrain from: (1) physical, verbal, or emotional abuse or harassment; (2) possessing, using, or being under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or illegal substances during any BFF of CT event or interaction; (3) engaging in sexual harassment or misconduct; (4) using harmful, harsh, politically partisan, racist, or demeaning language; (5) acting or speaking divisively to disrupt the BFF of CT community; and (6) engaging in any unlawful activities (which will be reported to the appropriate authorities). I understand that this Code of Conduct applies to all in-person and virtual interactions, including online courses and live Q&A sessions. If I fail to comply, I may be immediately removed from the premises or online platform, temporarily or permanently, at the discretion of BFF of CT, and I will forfeit any refunds or payments made for the course, workshop, retreat, program, or online offering.
Image and Media Release Agreement:
By registering for this course, workshop, retreat, or program, I authorize the Buddhist Faith Fellowship, Inc. (BFF of CT) and its representatives to photograph, record audio, and/or video of me during in-person or virtual sessions, without compensation. I grant BFF of CT the irrevocable and unrestricted right to use, reproduce, edit, distribute, and display such photographs, audio, and video recordings—including my image, likeness, and voice—for promotional, educational, and commercial purposes. This includes, but is not limited to, use in digital formats (e.g., online courses, websites, social media) and printed materials. I understand that these recordings may be repurposed into online courses or other offerings sold or distributed by BFF of CT. I agree that all such media, whether digital or physical, are the sole property of BFF of CT, and I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished product or to claim royalties or additional compensation. I also release BFF of CT, its staff, volunteers, and affiliates from any liability related to the use of my image, likeness, or voice as outlined herein.
