We seek to introduce the teachings of the Buddha to LGBT folk in such a way that we honor and respect all beings and where they are in their lives, and help them to preserve a healthy and positive self-image particularly about their sexuality.

We strive to accept all people as they are and offer to those who have an interest in Buddhism, an explanation of the path of Buddha and his Dharma, in order for them to evaluate and see if it is applicable to their way of living.

We seek to foster a non-sectarian group which celebrates the diversity of cultures, traditions, spiritual identities and practices of both Buddhism and humanity in general. Since Buddhism's arrival in the West is still in its infancy, we LGBT people regard ourselves as an integral part of the development of a Western Buddhist tradition.

We seek to develop camaraderie and friendship in the true meaning of the word, Sangha. We offer opportunities for members to share their practice, their struggles and habitual patterns that have caused suffering to themselves and others and their life experiences (and talents) with fellow members and teachers to find an end to suffering and to know that they are not alone, that we are all connected, that we are all Buddhas.

We seek to provide the means for transformation, for liberation though awareness and mindfulness. We strive to provide a refuge and safe place where LGBT people can feel supported and valued as they cultivate the practice of these teachings and learn how to apply them in practical ways to their everyday lives. We do so for the benefit of ourselves, our community and all sentient beings.

We take refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. 

We live in the midst of constant change, desire and dissatisfaction. Buddhist teachings offer us a realistic, dynamic, and authentic way to understand and work with reality as it is. This process enables us to be free from the stories and drama that often control our lives.

Buddhism does not offer a quick and easy fix for all of life’s problems, but it does open a gateway for us to see things more clearly and to work with our life events.

The Buddha teaches us to be who we are, rather than who we should be. This "man who woke up" teaches us how to open our hearts and minds, rather than filling our hearts and minds with fear and disappointment. He teaches that every aspect of life - the good, the bad, the exciting, and the mundane - is an opportunity for learning. Above all, he teaches that joy and freedom come from recognizing the deep connection we have with each other and the whole universe.

The Buddha gives us a living teaching that we can directly access today and use in every part of our lives. GBS brings us together to practice Buddhism, study the teachings, learn from each other's experiences, and find ways to serve the broader community. We practice in a vital environment that is accepting and inclusive.

It is difficult to practice Buddhism alone, so we come together to learn from teachers from many traditions and to be teachers for each other as LGBT people with common experiences.