Explore Buddhism: Karma – Nothing happens without a cause

Explore Buddhism: Karma - Nothing happens without a cause
Saturday 26 September 2026 – 10.30am–12.30pm
At Heruka Kadampa Meditation Centre, Golders Green
With Kadam John McBretney
“All our experiences, good and bad, are the results of our past actions.”
— Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
We often hear the word karma, but what does it actually mean?
In this introductory workshop, we explore the Buddhist understanding of karma — the law of cause and effect. You’ll discover that karma is not a system of reward and punishment, but a practical way of understanding how our intentions and actions shape our experience.
By becoming aware of the “seeds” we are planting in our mind through our daily thoughts, words, and actions, we can begin to reduce the causes of future difficulties and intentionally create the causes for a more positive and meaningful life.
This workshop will cover:
- Why is this happening to me?
- Is karma just fate, or can I change things?
- What can I do about the situation I'm in now?
Includes guided meditations, a clear talk, discussion, and time for Q&A.
Everyone is welcome.
About the teacher
Kadam John McBretney is the Resident Teacher of Heruka KMC and has been studying and practising Kadampa Buddhism for over 30 years. Known for his joyful and down-to-earth style, he has a rare ability to make even the deepest subjects clear and accessible, guiding students effortlessly to develop lasting inner peace and wisdom.
Schedule
- Registration - 10am - 10.30am
- Talk, meditations, discussion and questions - 10.30am - 12.30pm
- Refreshments - 12.30pm
The course is free for Silver members and above.
Available live-streamed on Zoom for Silver members and above.
Upcoming Courses & Retreats

Upcoming Courses & Retreats
2026-10-23 Post Fall Festival retreat (23-25 Oct)
Post-Fall Festival Retreat – Our Real Heart Jewel
Fri 23 – Sun 25 Oct 2026
Book nowAt Heruka Kadampa Meditation Centre, Golders Green
With Kadam John McBretney
The first session on Friday is an introduction, so no festival attendance is needed
2026-10-31 A Buddhist Perspective – How to Stay Kind When Others Aren’t
How to Stay Kind When Others Aren’t: A Buddhist Perspective
Sat 31 Oct 2026, 10.30am–12.30pm
Book nowAt Heruka Kadampa Meditation Centre, Golders Green
With Kadam Ai Peng McBretney
2026-11-07 Letting Go of Hurt (Sat 7 Nov)
Letting Go of Hurt
Sat 7 Nov 2026, 10am–3.30pm
Book nowHeruka KMC, Golders Green
With Kadam John McBretney – Why we take things personally, and how to let go.
2026-11-21 Being Kind to Yourself
Being Kind to Yourself
Sat 21 Nov 2026, 10am–1.15pm
Book nowHeruka KMC, Golders Green
With Richard Batty – A Buddhist Approach to Self-Criticism
2026-12-05 Calm in the Christmas Rush (Sat 5 Dec)
Calm in the Christmas Rush
Sat 5 Dec 2026, 10am–1.15pm
Book nowHeruka KMC, Golders Green
With Kadam Ai Peng McBretney – A Buddhist Approach to a Peaceful December
2026-12-13 How to Have a Happy Christmas (Sun 13 Dec).
How to Have a Happy Christmas
Sun 13 Dec 2026, 11am–1pm, followed by Christmas lunch
Book nowHeruka KMC, Golders Green
With Kadam John McBretney – Buddhist meditations for a joyful festive season, followed by Christmas lunch
2026-12-19 The Peace You’ve Been Looking For (Sat 19 Dec)
The Peace You’ve Been Looking For
Sat 19 Dec 2026, 10am–1.15pm
Book nowHeruka KMC, Golders Green
With Guest Teacher Kadam Lucy James – Resident Teacher of KMC London
2026-12-31 New Year’s Eve Celebration (Thu 31 Dec)
New Year's Eve Celebration
Thu 31 Dec 2026, 7.30pm–12.10am
Book nowHeruka KMC, Golders Green
With Kadam John McBretney – A peaceful, alcohol-free way to see in the New Year
Public Talks with Gen-la Dekyong, 8 May 2027
Public Talks with Gen-la Dekyong
Sat 8 May 2027
Book nowLogan Hall, 20 Bedford Way
London, WC1H 0ALWith Gen-la Dekyong