The Rime Buddhist Center is a non-sectarian spiritual community dedicated to the cultivation of wisdom and compassion. We offer a welcoming refuge for all who seek inner peace, kindness, meaningful community, and global harmony.
Rooted in the rich traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, our mission centers on providing a qualified program of Buddhist study and cultural education. Teachings are led by our resident teachers, as well as visiting monks, lamas, and respected lineage holders from across the Tibetan tradition. Through shared learning and cultural exchange, we strive to build bridges of understanding and mutual respect between Tibetan and Western communities.
We joyfully affirm and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community as vital and cherished members of our Sangha.
Founded in 1995 by Lama Chuck and Chaplain Mary Stanford, the Rime Buddhist Center & Tibetan Institute of Studies is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit religious and educational organization located at 2939 Wayne Ave, Kansas City, Missouri. Over the decades, we’ve grown into a vibrant spiritual hub, offering weekly services, meditation retreats, workshops, and community groups that support the integration of Buddhist practice into everyday life.
Whether you’re exploring Buddhism for the first time or deepening a long-standing practice, we welcome you with open hearts and the spirit of inclusivity.
Lama Chuck and Mary at their White Tara puja July 25, 2015.
Rime Center Founders
Lama Chuck Stanford was an ordained Lama within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. His wife Mary Stanford is a certified Buddhist chaplain who has worked in hospice for many years. At the end of 2015 Lama Emeritus Stanford retired as the spiritual leader and Executive Director of the Rime Buddhist Center. They moved to Oregon to be closer to their children and grandchildren.