Beginning as a collaborative initiative of several Buddhist groups in Knoxville, Lotus Light seeks to provide a space for anyone interested in the practice of mind, secular or traditional, and to embody this practice for the purpose of personal and collective awakening.

Lotus Light is committed to diversity and openness to all individuals regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or political affiliation.

As a community center, Lotus Light is invested in outreach into the local and broader communities, offering programs and aid to foster a culture of wisdom and compassion in society.

Active participation is the most welcome and essential ingredient of the vision, and new members and groups are warmly invited to collaborate and develop the space for the benefit of all.

You can find weekly classes on a variety of Buddhist topics, from a variety of lineages, as well as meditation groups and mindfulness programs.  There are also frequent visits from highly qualified and gifted teachers and facilitators, allowing the local community to deepen their practice through weekend workshops and short retreats.

Accommodation for out-of-town guests and visiting teachers is available in the two renovated apartments upstairs, as well as in local homes.

Lotus Light is committed to making all teachings accessible and affordable to anyone, and no one will ever be turned away for lack of funds.  Local and global sustainability is also central to the vision, and there are a variety of ways to contribute and give back to the community so that these precious teachings and opportunities can continue.

Welcome to the Lotus Light Center, May All Beings Benefit~

“Fully realizing the empty, pure nature, and connecting with others so that they also discover this already enlightened state of mind, is the essential point of all the teachings of the Buddha.”

– Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche