*** Note: Center has moved to Etta Burke Ct., Raleigh. A very informal, accessible center for those curious about Buddhism. A Sunday teaching is held with a very accomplished monk from India who speaks English and is very funny. Throughout the week there are classes held to learn more about Buddhism from a basic level or for more advanced students. A predominantly non-native congregation (aka people who were not raised Buddhist or who come from predominantly Buddhist cultures) makes Kadampa unintimidating and people are very willing to help newcomers. The new center has an expanded bookstore, library and children's place. They are also involved in projects outside the center like prisoner outreach and adopting a stretch of highway for cleaning by RDU. I recommend this place for anyone who is even curious as to what a monk is like or what a Buddhist center would be like. They aren't into converting people.
Pros: relaxed atmosphere, very friendly and accessible.
Cons: can be tricky to find new center since it is accessible going one way on Hillborough
more