Seminar 74 50 YEARS OF SHARING THE DHAMMA:LESSONS FROM A LIFE OF SERVICE
Fifty years ago, on July 4, 1976, Ven. Dr. Walpola Piyananda arrived in the United States with a vision of sharing the Buddha’s teachings in a new cultural landscape. Over the past five decades, he has played a pioneering role in establishing Buddhist communities, guiding practitioners, and helping the Dhamma flourish across America.
On July 4, 2026—exactly fifty years after his arrival—Ven. Piyananda will join us for a special conversation reflecting on this remarkable journey. Drawing from a lifetime of teaching and community building, he will share insights into how Buddhism can take root in a new culture while remaining faithful to its essential principles.
Together, we will explore questions that continue to shape Buddhism in the West: What aspects of the tradition should be carefully preserved? What adaptations help the Dhamma speak to contemporary society? How can Buddhist communities grow with wisdom, compassion, and integrity for future generations?
Whether you are a longtime practitioner, a student of Buddhism, or simply curious about the development of Buddhism in America, we warmly invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to learn from one of the most respected Buddhist leaders in the United States.
Speaker: Bhante Walpola Piyananda Distinguished Buddhist Monk and Author Founder and Abbot, Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara
Saturday, July 4, 2026 6:00-7:30 am (Los Angeles) 9:00-10:30 am (NYC/Boston) 9:00-10:30 pm (Beijing)
