A Buddhist seeks refuge in the Three Jewels: Buddha (the enlightened one), the Dharma, (the Buddha’s teachings of the four noble truths and the eightfold path), and the Sangha (the community of Buddha’s followers seeking enlightenment). The Sangha can be a formal community of monks living in a monastery or a community of laypeople who gather together.
Enlightenment is nearly impossible to achieve alone. A person must understand that we suffer as do all those around us; suffering comes from a cause; suffering can end; and the path to end suffering and achieve enlightenment is the middle way. A central aspect of Sangha is to gather with others who can mentor, as we in turn mentor others. As members of a Sangha we help each other on the eightfold path to right understanding; right intention; right communication; right engagement; right service; right energy; right mindfulness; and right concentration.
alive in the sea of information 
Please don’t forget that some also take refuge in the lama as well. A living example that one sees as being already enlightened, if he can then so can I, attitude develops.
Have a great day, 🙂
Thank you for your wisdom! Of course. The lama is a bodhisattva helping us on the path.
Actually we take refuge in Buddha, dharma, sangha, and the three roots lama, yidams, and protectors as well. Lama is not just important, he/she is everything.