FPMT Community: Stories & News

Lama Zopa Rinpoche at Kopan Monastery, January 2020. Photo by Ven. Roger Kunsang.

This month’s e-news brings you important news, updates, and causes for rejoicing including:

• Teachings from Lama Zopa Rinpoche and Lama Yeshe
• News About the Second Anniversary Pilgrimage to Lawudo
• Support offered to 1,500 students in India and Nepal in 2024
• An inspiring update on the Malaysian centers
• Geshe Doga offering 40 years at Tara Institute
• Completion of the 12th annual mani retreat in Mongolia
• An update on regional consultations and foundation service seminars
• Resources and opportunities for your study and practice
• Changes and opportunities in the organization 

And so much more! 

Please read this month’s e-news in its entirety. 

Visit our subscribe page to receive the monthly FPMT International Office e-News directly in your email inbox.

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Ven. Roger with Losang Dragpa Centre members in Kuala Lumpur.

In October Ven. Roger Kunsang, CEO of FPMT Inc. and longtime attendant to Lama Zopa Rinpoche, met with all three FPMT entities in Malaysia to engage with the communities, receive updates on their various plans and projects, and share stories about Lama Zopa Rinpoche and FPMT. FPMT East & Southeast Asia regional coordinator, Selina Foong, shares details of this special visit:

Ven. Roger’s Malaysia stopover in early October was the very definition of a whirlwind tour—what with fruitful visits to all three FPMT Malaysia centers, interactions with students both new and old, and endless piles of delicious (and spicy) local food, including durian!

The first stop was at Losang Dragpa Centre (LDC) in Kuala Lumpur, where members and friends packed into the gompa to enjoy a buffet dinner before settling down for a special session with Ven. Roger, introduced by Centre Director Goh Pik Pin, myself (FPMT East & Southeast Asia regional coordinator), and moderated by Trustee Lee Oi Loon.

All were enthralled by Ven. Roger’s recounting of some extraordinary experiences with Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche. One particular story was about one time in the 1980s at the Nepal-India border, where Rinpoche and Ven. Roger had been dropped off and then Rinpoche decided to get on a bus. With no clue as to where they were heading, Ven. Roger of course had to follow, lugging along two heavy suitcases filled to the brim with holy texts that Rinpoche never traveled without. The bus was packed, and they both sat to the side of the driver, blasted by the night air as the bus was missing a windscreen(!). Suddenly, Rinpoche asked the driver to stop.  In pitch dark and in the middle of nowhere, Rinpoche got off the bus with Ven. Roger struggling behind him, loaded down by the two suitcases.  They eventually left the road and continued into the bush, going down a gully, across a creek, and up again on the other side (by this stage, even the LDC audience was sweating!) …. until finally, faint lights appeared in the distance. “There!” Rinpoche exclaimed. It was the monastery of His Eminence Chobgye Trichen Rinpoche, one of Rinpoche’s teachers. Retiring for the night at last in a hot and tiny room, Ven. Roger quickly sank into an exhausted sleep while Rinpoche continued his prayers. At around 1-2 a.m., Ven. Roger awoke to find Rinpoche had lifted off the mosquito net as well as his singlet.  His entire torso was covered with mosquitos!  “I was really shocked,” Ven Roger recalled … but Rinpoche was of course unfazed. “It’s okay, it’s okay!  They are only taking a little bit of blood each,” came Rinpoche’s soothing reply.

As the stories continued to flow, listening to them first-hand was simply spellbinding. But then came the question on everyone’s minds: How did Ven. Roger himself keep going at this intensity for almost forty years? He said the answer one day spontaneously came to him about Rinpoche, “This is the bodhisattva’s way of life!” The phrase just tumbled out of Ven. Roger’s mouth. He realized then and there the purity and bodhichitta emanating from Rinpoche’s every pore. This was what compelled him to assist Rinpoche, in any way he could, without ever giving up. How moving and extraordinary.

Ven. Roger shared that he also had a long and excellent discussion with LDC’s resident Geshe, Geshe Jampa Tsondu, about the ongoing FPMT Basic Program offered online to all students which began in October 2020. With a solid and consistent following, two different subjects are taught concurrently, to cater to varying levels of students. The students are also benefiting enormously from the 20-30 minute meditation session led by Geshe Tsondu at the beginning of each class, as well as the regular quizzes and weekly review classes to foster deeper understanding of the topics taught. 

In fact, Geshe Tsondu shared how he considers that out of all Rinpoche’s exalted activities, the FPMT Basic Program and Masters Program established by Rinpoche are among the greatest. Therefore, due to Rinpoche’s great kindness, these programs will help the Dharma to flourish for a very long time, for the benefit of many. It is LDC’s hope to offer the FPMT Masters Program in the future; something to truly rejoice in and look forward to!

Ven. Roger with members of Chokyi Gyaltsen Center.

From Kuala Lumpur, Ven. Roger flew to Penang and was received at the Penang International Airport by Chokyi Gyaltsen Center (CGC)’s resident Geshe, Geshe Tenzin Deyang, and a few committee members. Arriving at CGC, members and friends were already waiting in line to warmly welcome him with khatas in greeting. What a joy to see Ven Roger at the center again after eight long years.  His last visit was with Rinpoche in 2016, for the Most Secret Hayagriva Initiation (MSH) program. How much has changed since then!

Ven. Roger’s display of guru devotion at CGC was most inspiring. He offered khata and flowers to Rinpoche’s throne in the gompa, and three full prostrations to Rinpoche’s throne in Rinpoche’s top floor room. Lights were also offered to the many beautiful holy statues.

Geshe Deyang then led prayers to Mother Tara for the swift return of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche, and it was very moving to see Ven. Roger truly immersed in the prayers. An interactive sharing session followed, with Ven. Roger’s stories of Rinpoche’s enlightened activities and of how Rinpoche would use circumstances in daily life to benefit others. Later, Ven. Roger told Geshe Deyang and center director Lim Eam Lee that he had enjoyed the gompa’s peaceful and solemn atmosphere, and wished he could stay longer and do further prayers there.

CGC had arranged for Ven. Roger to stay at a lovely hotel along Gurney Drive, one of the most popular scenic waterfront promenades in Penang. Before the dinner at a nearby restaurant, CGC’s committee members met Ven. Roger at the hotel, where he gave valuable guidance and much encouragement, explaining why one should very much rejoice in the opportunity to work for the center.

During the visit, Ven Roger also informed Geshe Deyang and Lee of FPMT’s plan to organize a MSH retreat for our global FPMT family, to fulfill Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s wishes and as a way to protect the organization.  Ven. Roger then requested Geshe Deyang to lead CGC in hosting this MSH retreat in Penang. How wonderful! CGC is already starting to plan for this special event; more details will be announced in due course.

The final stop was Rinchen Jangsem Ling retreat center (RJL) in Triang, a three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur two days later. What a physical transformation RJL has undergone since 2016, when Rinpoche last visited and presided over the inaugural three-week Medicine Buddha Retreat!  The covid lockdown years have certainly been put to good use, with a new access road, additional parking facilities, new canteen and extra accommodation in various states of completion. 

Especially amazing are RJL’s holy objects. Joining the glorious Kwan Yin, Medicine Buddha and Namthose marble statues is the giant Namgyalma stupa, which Rinpoche had advised in 2016 to be built and was swiftly completed just several years later.  Rinpoche had also advised and himself donated toward a prayer wheel for RJL’s public Dharma park. This three-story Wish-fulfilling Prayer Wheel is currently in progress, with the concrete foundations already laid.  When completed, it will be the largest prayer wheel in the world which is enclosed within a pavilion. 

Ven. Roger visiting RJL’s future Thousand Buddha Wall.

Another jaw-dropping project currently in progress at RJL is the Thousand Buddha Wall, which will be the largest Buddha wall in the world when completed. The huge retaining wall serving as its base has already been completed, and strong efforts are ongoing for its detailed design as well as fundraising for these truly amazing holy objects. Wow, rejoice!

Ven. Roger offering a khata to Rinchen Jangsem Ling’s Namgyalma Stupa. Photo courtesy of RJL.

It was a sweltering day when Ven. Roger visited, but this did not deter him from walking the extensive grounds, viewing the progress of the prayer wheel and Thousand Buddha Wall, and praying before the beautiful statues as well as the recently completed Namgyalma Stupa. No day in Malaysia would seem to be complete without another mountain of flavorsome food and sure enough, everyone enjoyed a sumptuous lunch in the main building, as well as light refreshments at the scenic Bodhi Garden where bamboo pavilions provided welcome respite from the afternoon heat.

All in all, it was a very successful trip. The Malaysian centers felt truly honored to have the opportunity to express their gratitude to dear Ven. Roger, who for almost forty years served our Holy Guru with unflinching devotion and deep humility. Utmost respect to you, Ven. Roger! Thank you for all that you have done, and continue to do! We wish you a long life, good health, and may all your wishes come true.

With grateful thanks to Selina Foong for this report. 

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

2024 Anniversary Pilgrimage participants gathered at the Thame Stupa, Nepal, May 2024. Photo courtesy of Ven. Sarah Thresher.

Following the success of the first anniversary pilgrimage last year, Lawudo Retreat Center is happy to announce that it will once again be offering the chance to visit, reflect, pray and meditate at the holy places of the Lawudo Lamas on the second anniversary of Rinpoche showing the aspect of passing away. Pilgrims will be able to pray for Rinpoche’s swift return while also absorbing the blessings of these holy places and deepening one’s understanding of the unique Sherpa culture of which Lama Zopa Rinpoche was a part. Dharma talks and discussions will be led by Charok Lama Sherpa Rinpoche and pilgrimage leaders will be Ven. Sarah Thresher and Ven. Angie Muir. Ven. Sarah Thresher shares the details of this most precious opportunity:

View from the Lawudo Lama’s cave, looking toward Thamserku. Photo by Ven. Sarah Thresher.

Honoring Our Spiritual Master Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche, the Second Lawudo Lama,
On the Second Anniversary of His Passing

By Ven. Sarah Thresher

Pilgrimage is always uplifting—but to visit and practice in the holy places of one’s own teacher is especially powerful and moving. This anniversary pilgrimage to the Khumbu region—and particularly Lawudo—is therefore especially poignant on the second anniversary of Rinpoche’s passing.

The Khumbu region with its soaring mountains, clear skies, roaring rivers, waterfalls and ancient settlements is not just a place of breathtaking beauty, it is also a hidden valley (beyul) blessed by Padmasambhava to nurture and support spiritual practice and realization. Generations of yogis have meditated in its caves and hermitages and the landscape is enriched by the presence of stupas, prayer stones, prayer wheels, prayer flags, holy images, temples and hermitages.

Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Lawudo, Lawudo Retreat Centre, Nepal, 1978. Photo by Ueli Minder. (photographer)

This is where our spiritual master Lama Zopa Rinpoche in his past life as the Lawudo Lama showed the aspect of accomplishing the highest stages of Dzogchen Atiyoga in the Lawudo cave and earth holes around it. It is also where Rinpoche took rebirth in the picturesque village of Thame and first became a monk at Thame monastery. It is where Rinpoche built his first monastery, ordained the first Kopan monks and where his sister still lives. In recent years, Rinpoche also put much effort to help the local people by restoring the huge stupa of Thame-teng, constructing a 100 trillion mantra prayer wheel in Thame and sponsoring the reconstruction of temples, prayer wheels, artwork and more in the surrounding areas.

The Lawudo Anniversary Pilgrimage is an opportunity for students of Lama Zopa Rinpoche to visit and connect (or reconnect) with the holy places of Rinpoche’s past and most recent life as the Lawudo Lama. During these fifteen days of pilgrimage we will be doing prayers and practices taught by Rinpoche and specifically focused on clearing obstacles and creating auspicious conditions for his swift return. There will also be time to reflect, contemplate and absorb the blessings of these inspiring places. For the three days of retreat at Lawudo, Charok Lama Rinpoche will give teachings on the Wheel of Sharp Weapons thought transformation text and there will be prayer sessions throughout the day in Lawudo cave for Rinpoche’s swift return.

Cherok Lama teaching in Lawudo.

With thanks to Ven. Sarah Thresher for sharing details of the upcoming pilgrimage. Registration is now open for this precious opportunity. 

Charok Lama Rinpoche was recognized at the age of three as the reincarnation of the revered hermit-yogi Kusho Mangde who was a friend of the first Lawudo Lama and meditated in the Charok Cave nearby. As a young child he demanded to go to Kopan monastery to study as a monk and from there he attended Sera Monastery, where he excelled in debate and philosophical enquiry. Charok Lama’s early travel and exposure to Eastern and Western culture has given him a special insight into the challenges faced integrating Tibetan Buddhism to other cultures. He is a gifted and joyful Dharma teacher, public speaker and motivational coach.

Pilgrimage leaders Ven. Angie Muir and Ven. Sarah Thresher—seen here on pilgrimage together in Thame last year.

Ven. Sarah Thresher met Buddhism in 1982 at Kopan and almost immediately began working for Wisdom Publications editing and preparing Dharma materials. In 1986, after ordaining in Bodhgaya with His Holiness Dalai Lama she made her first trip to Lawudo. She has traveled and taught around the world, but her special focus is preserving and spreading the teachings, practice and chanting lineage of Lama Zopa Rinpoche. In 2023/4 she has spent eight months in retreat and pilgrimage at and around Lawudo and looks forward to sharing the magic of Khumbu with others. Ven. Sarah will be helping to introduce the pilgrimage places and lead the prayers and practices.

Ven. Angie Muir was born in Scotland, in 1970, and obtained a Bachelors Degree in 1992. Feeling disillusioned with her prospective career path and life ahead of her, she left Scotland and combined traveling with work in Asia for three years until in 1995 she felt a calling to go to India to explore meditation and find her life path. Within a few months she met her main spiritual teacher Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche and ordained. Ven. Angie has been a Buddhist nun for over 25 years and during this time, she has served at Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s residences in the USA for 13 years. She shares a love of Rinpoche’s practices and of pilgrimage.

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Today we are sharing an upcoming opportunity to join Science & Wisdom LIVE and other FPMT collaborators as they explore secular spirituality, consciousness and the illusion of self in a groundbreaking collaborative event.

On Saturday, November 23, 2024, “Secular Spirituality, The Science of Consciousness, and The Illusion of Self” will unite audiences worldwide in an inspiring online event hosted by Science & Wisdom LIVE, a project of Jamyang London Buddhist Centre. What makes this dialogue truly special is the support from four FPMT entities and their projects, working together for combined results.

The talk invites Geshe Tenzin Namdak, resident teacher at Jamyang Buddhist Centre and Science & Wisdom LIVE, into dialogue with Prof. Thomas Metzinger, a world-renowned philosopher of mind and the cognitive sciences, moderated by Scott Snibbe, author of How to Train a Happy Mind book and host of the similarly named podcast. Together they will explore how secular spirituality can inspire personal growth through meditative and contemplative practices, without needing religious beliefs. The event will also look at the science behind consciousness—how our subjective experiences arise and connect to modern neuroscience. Finally, the idea of the “illusion of self,” a key point in both Buddhist philosophy and cognitive science, will be discussed. 

“Secular Spirituality, The Science of Consciousness, and The Illusion of Self” is built on the combined efforts of six dedicated partners: Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Nagarjuna Madrid, Instituto Lama Tsongkhapa, Mind Science Academy, Foundation for Developing Compassion and Wisdom, and Science & Wisdom LIVE itself. 

Driven by Geshe Namdak’s vision to make these talks accessible to people from diverse backgrounds, and thanks to the support of Nagarjuna Madrid and Instituto Lama Tsongkhapa, the event will feature live translations in Spanish and Italian, ensuring that non-English-speaking participants can fully engage with the discussions.

As project manager of Science & Wisdom Live, Matthew McArthur, shares, “The collective efforts in planning, promoting, and coordinating this event demonstrate that when organizations come together, they can amplify their impact and create meaningful connections. This partnership not only enhances the event itself but also fosters a sense of community, inspiring others to see the benefits of working together.”

Please read more about this special event on November 23, and find links to register in English, Spanish, or Italian. 

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Geshe Doga portrait. Photo courtesy of Tara Institute.

Tara Institute, Melbourne, Australia, is extremely honored that Venerable Geshe Doga has been serving as their resident teacher for forty years. Please read their recent report about his kindness, guidance and invaluable teachings spanning four decades: 

Staying an astonishing forty years at one FPMT center is an extraordinary accomplishment for any geshe. We at Tara Institute are so grateful to Geshe Doga for his priceless teachings, constant kindness, encouragement, guidance, holding us in his mandala, and putting up with our delusions and petty squabbles for four decades!

Geshe Doga teaching at Kopan Monastery, 1980. Photo courtesy of the Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive.

Lama Yeshe and Geshe Doga at Kopan Monastery, 1979. Photo by Jeff Nye, courtesy of the Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive.

It all began in 1980 when Lama Yeshe “poached” Geshe Doga from Sera Je monastery in South India, in order for Geshe Doga to teach young monks in Kopan. Geshe Doga first met Lama Yeshe under the harsh conditions of the Buxa Duar Tibetan refugee camp in India, after escaping Chinese occupied Tibet in 1959.

After a couple of years at Kopan, Lama Yeshe asked Geshe Doga to teach in the West. He kept refusing Lama’s requests because he was happy at Kopan and had no interest in moving to the West. Finally relenting, Geshe Doga came out to Australia in late 1983 to teach in the heat at Atisha Centre in Bendigo (way before the Great Stupa was built).

In September 1984, Geshe-la became the resident teacher of Tara Institute. Uprooted from his culture a second time (first when he escaped Tibet), away from his friends and his monastic traditions—he has steadfastly remained at Tara Institute all these years.

Lama Zopa and Geshe Doga, Bodhgaya, India, 2022. Photo by Cynthia Karena.

From Geshe Doga’s rural beginnings in 1935 in Khanze, a small village in the remote Kham region of northeast Tibet; to dangerous adventures on horseback at 16 years old riding to Lhasa to further his monastic studies; to living in basic conditions in the early days at Sera Je and Kopan monasteries (although far better than Buxa!)—Geshe Doga suddenly found himself living in Australia with all its material wealth and comforts, but also with plenty of untamed minds to work with.

Every time Lama Zopa Rinpoche visited Tara Institute, he asked us to treasure Geshe Doga and to heed his advice. Over the decades, TI has grown enormously, thanks to Geshe-la’s teachings, kindness and patient guidance.

Geshe Doga’s first, and again current, translator at Tara Institute, Sandup Tsering, says Geshe Doga’s friendship with both the late lamas—Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche—is “very deep, personal and goes a long way. Both the lamas had shown special affection for Geshe-la, and wanted and trusted Geshe-la in their work for flourishing Dharma and benefiting migrating beings through FPMT. Geshe-la has never made any fuss, demands or complaints about his personal needs but wholeheartedly dedicated himself towards the success of the center and FPMT. Geshe Doga was well known in the monasteries in his time as a great debater and a scholar.” 

When Geshe Doga first arrived at Tara Institute, we offered long-life pujas for his long and healthy life. Then Lama Zopa specifically instructed us to do five long life pujas for Geshe Doga, and we’ve just kept going, doing them each year for the past twenty-five years, increasing the number of flower garlands and tables with offerings—at least 500 offering bowls resplendent with saffron water, incense, flowers, candles, etc. The community comes together, both as volunteers and attendees, to thank our kind and venerable teacher Geshe Doga for his unwavering commitment and kindness to the students and friends of Tara Institute.

We are also currently fulfilling Lama Zopa’s advice to recite the Sutra of Golden Light 3,000 times for Geshe Doga’s long life. We have had numerous large group recitations at Tara institute and continue to do so, and students continue to recite the sutra at home. The tally at the time of writing is 2,342.

“Geshe Doga is much loved and much admired. There is a genuine equanimity in Geshe-la’s behavior toward others,” says Damien Busby, Monday night teacher and former director, who has been one of the people driving Geshe-la to the various teaching venues around Victoria for many years.

Geshe Doga during a long life puja, 2017. Photo by Damien Busby.

“My own interactions with Geshe Doga feel very precious and valuable over the last forty years. This same care and concern has been extended to hundreds, if not thousands, of others. These interactions are all unique and individual and suited to the needs and personality of the person. This is a remarkable skill and devotion to the welfare of others. Geshe Doga’s devotion to teaching is another extraordinary aspect. Teaching so consistently for over forty years and going wherever he was asked to teach, without question, has seen Geshela teach at more than twenty different locations in Victoria, Tasmania, and New South Wales.”

Student Katrina Moxey says, “His love for teaching Dharma and his unbiased love and compassion for all beings are palpable to anyone who has the fortune to be in his presence. It is no exaggeration to say he has changed my life. Every happiness I experience is directly related to Geshe Doga’s compassionate heart teachings.”  

Another former director and long time student, Ross Moore remembers visiting Geshe Doga’s teacher Geshe Ngawang Dhargyey in Sydney in 1985. After asking Ross who his teacher is, Geshe Dhargyey whispered words Ross has never forgotten: “the kindest teacher of all is the one who lives amongst you.” 

“This was clearly a reference to Geshe Doga,” Ross explains, “whom I had first met during Kyabje Zopa Rinpoche’s visit to Atisha Centre in 1983, and who was Geshe Ngawang Dhargyey’s own close student.”

Students in procession during a long life puja for Geshe Doga, 2023. Photo courtesy of Tara Institute.

Over many years, Geshe Doga worked with Lama Zopa Rinpoche to guide Tara Institute, and as Ross says, “all the while quietly and patiently giving teachings of great profundity but also of immense practicality because, without a doubt, Geshe Doga is a real Kadampa master. Of that I have no doubt. It’s extraordinary that Geshe Doga deliberately and skillfully manifests as ordinary so that we can approach him. And he can reach us.”

When visiting Sera Je with Geshe Doga, the great respect for him was evident, says Ross. “But when invited to have his name included in a list of potential Abbots to be presented to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for divination and selection, Geshe Doga repeatedly said no. He would then calmly return to Australia and Tara Institute and continue his teachings from the exact point from where he had left off. It is a truly remarkable fact that Geshe Doga is not only the longest serving geshe in the FPMT organization but has stayed with us.”

Geshe Doga deliberately avoids any perception that he is extraordinary, says Ross. “He is perhaps mistaken by some as being – well – actually ordinary! Such a woeful misreading is a sign that in our own greedy quest for the extraordinary … we gloss over the most remarkable Guru of all – the one manifesting gently and unassumingly dwelling amongst us. A miraculous flower blooming unheralded in the public garden. This miscalculation on our part is surely the height of samsaric folly.” 

Although Geshe Doga attended Allys and Dave Andrews’ wedding at Kopan Monastery in 1979, they met Geshe Doga in 1984 when he came to TI. “When family problems arose, his advice would solve them,” remembers Allys. “In times of deep sorrow and great joy, Geshe-la has been there as a guide. One of the greatest gifts he has given me is to have found courage. Quite early on Geshe-la advised me to lead Monday night meditation classes. I was completely terrified for years. Gradually the fear lessened. He is a most precious friend. I have no doubt that Geshe-la is clairvoyant. His view is vast, his advice, whilst sometimes seeming counterintuitive, has solved the most difficult of problems. He has inspired many, many people; at the center, the beach, the swimming pool, in shopping centers. He is amazing. Everything good in my life is a result of following his suggestions.”

We at Tara Institute remain devoted and forever grateful to Geshe Doga. We all resonate with the words Allys shared: “I pray that I will never be separated from him in this and all future lives until enlightenment. Geshe Doga makes awakening seem possible.”

We thank Tara Institute for this moving account of Geshe Doga’s qualities and service, with special thanks to Cynthia Karena, Ross Moore, Damien Busby, Allys Andrews, Sandup Tsering, and Katrina Moxey.

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Onsite participants in the FPMT Latin and North America Meeting Regional Consultation at Land of Medicine Buddha. Photo by John Golson.

From September 6-8, 2024 the FPMT North America and Latin America’s 2004 regional consultation was held at Land of Medicine Buddha in Soquel, CA, USA. North American Regional Coordinator, Melissa Kaye, and Director of Thubten Norbu Ling in Santa Fe, NM, Nina Highfill, share the following update on this event which joyfully reunited participants with a shared purpose. 

Melissa Kaye reflects: “After five long years of virtual connections, the air was thick with excitement as members of FPMT’s North American region joyfully reunited in person. As I walked into the beautiful, historic Land of Medicine Buddha (LMB) gompa in Soquel, California on the chilly Friday evening, I felt a little uneasy. As the new North American Regional Coordinator, I was not sure whether one weekend would be enough time to break the ice and come together as a region. But the moment I stepped into the room, it was all smiles, hugs and words of welcome and support. The networking and bonding among us began immediately, and there was a palpable sense of belonging and anticipation. We had an eventful weekend in front of us.”

The North American Regional Meeting took place September 6-8, 2024, and was beautifully and expertly hosted by LMB. Representatives from nearly all 27 North American centers, projects, services and study groups attended the hybrid meeting, including 33 in-person participants, some of whom traveled very far to be with us. One participant shared, “Traveling 3,000 miles to be here was worth every moment; the warmth and camaraderie felt like coming home.”’ We also took advantage of technology with more than 20 attending at least some sessions online.

Discussions during the recent NARM meeting at LMB. Photo by François Lecointre

During the first half of the weekend meeting, we were joined by members of the FPMT Inc. Board (Paula de Wys, Dale Davis and Karuna Cayton) and International Office (Teacher/Center Services Director François Lecointre) who led us in discussions on the topic of “Advancing Our Gurus’ Vision of a World Guided by Compassion and Wisdom.” Six members from five centers of FPMT’s Latin America region also joined us online for these discussions, which were part of the FPMT Inc. Board’s regional consultations paving the way to CPMT 2025.

After a Friday night overview of the FPMT Inc. Board’s consultation work completed thus far, Saturday morning saw us diving deep into four crucial areas shaping FPMT’s path forward: Education and Universal Education, Community Services and Interfaith Dialogue, Modern Approaches and Technology, and Leadership. 

We broke into small focus groups, each tackling one of these vital topics. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy and ideas, as participants shared insights, debated possibilities and crafted innovative proposals. It was inspiring to witness the collective wisdom of our community at work, each person eagerly contributing their unique perspective to help shape FPMT’s future, even foregoing tea breaks to continue their discussions.

These small group sessions weren’t just theoretical exercises. Our proposals, along those from other regional consultations, will be further refined and consolidated, forming the foundation for deeper explorations at the upcoming CPMT gathering in April 2025. This collaborative process embodies the spirit of co-creation, ensuring that our organization’s future is shaped by the diverse voices of our global community.  As one participant aptly put it, “The tone was lovely; everything felt very reciprocal and everyone felt invited to be engaged.” It’s clear that the future of FPMT is in passionate, capable hands.

The second portion of our regional meeting took place on Sunday when we discussed a three-year plan for our region, including ideas for expanding teacher tours, offering region-wide online education programs, modernizing our regional digital content, and increasing center collaboration and training. 

Again, there was a great deal of enthusiastic discussion among the participants and tremendous support for expanding regional collaboration and activities.  Feedback from the participants included: “Having nearly everyone in person was wonderful. Having breakout sessions to work through topics really helped bond with people from other centers” and  “Wonderful to meet fellow FMPT folks from the region, absolutely lovely.  Also glad to be able to zoom in to the event and attend at least a small part.”

Throughout the weekend there was an overwhelming sense of new energy and enthusiasm in the room and online.  We are so much stronger and can achieve so much more when we work together for the benefit of all sentient beings. And as we were laughing and brainstorming with each other, we realized that offering service together is also a lot more fun!

We look forward to continuing these collaborative discussions and meeting with even more of you next year at Kopan for CPMT 2025!

The last of the four regional consultations planned in 2024 to pave the way for the CPMT 2025 took place at Tara Institute in Melbourne, on October 26 and 27, with representatives, onsite or online from almost all centers, projects, and services from Australia and New Zealand. We look forward to sharing an update on this meeting very soon. 

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Inge Siebenwurst offering a khata to Lama Zopa Rinpoche in Munich during Rinpoche’s 2018 European Tour. Photo courtesy of Aryatara Institute.

Inge Siebenwurst, passed away on October 22, 2024 in Bavaria, Germany, after a short and serious illness with cancer.

Aryatara Institute submitted a moving obituary for Inge and would like to express their gratitude and appreciation for her. “Inge was a pillar of the Aryatara Institute for many years, her dedication and tireless commitment have made a deep impression and left joyful memories for many members and visitors of the Aryatara Institute.”

A Pillar of the Center

Portrait of Inge Siebenwurst, photo courtesy of Aryatara Institute.

Inge joined the center in 2004, started the Discovering Buddhism course, and soon started volunteering. She didn’t have to be asked, she simply did what was needed. For many years, Inge was at the heart of many practical aspects of our center life. In charge of the preparations, for many years she was the first to open the doors and the last to put out the lights. For 20 years she contributed tirelessly in various capacities.

Spiritual Program Coordinator and Board Member

She proved her organizational skills especially during her time as Spiritual Program Coordinator (2011-2013) and as a core board member (2007-2011 and 2012-2014). In these positions, she played a key role in defining the central topics of the center. Time and again, she impressively demonstrated how important and beneficial personal commitment, good organization and, above all, harmonious cooperation are for spiritual growth and the community.

Major Events and Visits from Lamas

Her commitment to the planning and implementation of major events and teacher visits has been remarkable. She was involved in the Maitreya Loving Kindness Tour (2004, 2008, 2015) and the Sera Lachi and Ngari monk tours (2012, 2015, 2017), and played a key role in the visits of Tenzin Osel Hita (2017), Lama Zopa Rinpoche (2018), Jhado Rinpoche and H.E. Ling Rinpoche (2023), and most recently, in May of this year during the visit of Khandro Tseringma Rinpoche in Munich.

She took on any task that needed to be done, from creating promotional materials, organizing event equipment, driving the teachers, decorating the altar, and much more.

In addition, Inge’s warm-hearted nature and organizational skills not only created a dignified atmosphere for the visiting teachers, but also promoted team spirit and harmony among the many volunteers.

Taking Care of Teachers

Inge’s commitment to the center was evident in the early years when Ven. Fedor came to Munich in 2007 as a Resident Teacher. Wherever she could, she offered her support and was significantly involved in finding a new teacher’s apartment in 2013. She also looked after various visiting teachers such as Ven. Tharchin and Ven. Tony.

Inge (bottom left) at the100 Million Mani Retreat at ITLK, Italy, 2017. Photo courtesy of Aryatara Institute.

Aryatara Publications

Her extraordinary commitment also showed in the field of publications, where she played a crucial role in publications for over 14 years: as coordinator, layout designer, translator. and proofreader to many essential texts which help to preserve the teachings of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and Lama Yeshe and make them easily accessible to those interested. And to ensure that these publications reach as many people as possible, copies were also sent to German-speaking centers. This too was largely done by Inge, who packed the parcels, took them to the post office, and covered the postage costs without even mentioning it.

Transcription and Distance Learning

With equal dedication, Inge wrote almost 200 transcripts for the FPMT Basic Program and Discovering Buddhism over a period of 12 years—an achievement that is incredibly remarkable in itself. Not only does it require an enormous amount of time (at least 8 hours per transcript) and commitment, but the result—making the words of one’s own teachers available to others so that course participants can read them again and again—is invaluable.

In addition, the transcripts of the lectures of the study programs also form the basis for the distance learning program offered by the Aryatara Institute. For many years, Inge looked after the distance learning students, sent them the teaching materials, answered questions, etc.

Programs, Newsletters, Website

For several years, Inge was responsible for the creation of the programs, the layout of the newsletters and their distribution as well as significantly involved in the creation of the current website, which she also managed for several years.

Leading Events and Retreats

Inge was not only active behind the scenes in many areas, she also led meditations and practices such as the Tsog Guru Puja, as well as Tara and Medicine Buddha practice on a regular basis for many years. She led the Tara Easter retreat for three years, enabling participants to experience the healing practice of Tara in depth. With her empathetic nature, she created a safe space of peace and trust where people could connect and support each other in their practice.

Inge attending retreat in 2014. Photo courtesy of Aryatara Institute.

An Inspiring Practitioner

Inge was not only a tireless volunteer, she was also a long-time student and an inspiring practitioner at the center. She participated in the FPMT Basic Program for Advanced Practitioners, first with Geshe Soepa and later with Ven. Fedor. She devoted herself intensively to the study of profound Buddhist teachings including five years of lamrim study, four years of the Bodhisattvacharyavatara and in-depth study of many other topics and texts. Her interest and dedication to her studies were amazing.

Student of Lama Zopa Rinpoche

Last but not least, she was a truly devoted student of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, whose retreats she attended whenever she could: 2009 in France (6 weeks), 2014 in Italy (3 weeks), 2015 in the Netherlands (2 weeks) and 2017 in Italy (4 weeks). Rinpoche’s visit to Munich in 2018 was certainly a particularly joyful event for her, to the success of which she contributed in the aforementioned way.

Through her manifold but always humble activities for the Aryatara Institute, Inge put into practice one of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s most important teachings—to understand “service” to others, and especially to Dharma centers, as a path to enlightenment as only when there are places where Dharma is taught can we develop wisdom and compassion. Inge recognized this and for over 20 years she actively supported the center and all those who benefit from it.   

A Valued Friend and Companion

Inge with her grandchild, 2022. Photo courtesy of Aryatara Institute.

Inge’s warm nature, her openness for conversation and her ability to inspire and encourage others made her a valued friend and companion to many.

Her work was marked by genuine devotion to the Dharma and a sincere desire to benefit others. Her exemplary tireless dedication, deep practice and genuine commitment will continue to inspire us and be remembered with gratitude. She was a role model for many of us and will remain so.

During the pandemic, Inge moved from Munich to the countryside with her son and daughter-in-law. Her visits to the center became less frequent, but the bond remained. In 2022, her grandson was born, a new task for Inge. As a result of her move, she no longer worked as much for the center, but she saw the support for her family as her practice. She taught her little grandson the mantra OM MANI PADME HUM and showed him how to do light offerings.

Practice for Inge

On Thursday, October 24, 2024, two days after Inge’s death, the Aryatara community performed a Medicine Buddha puja for her at the center. We individually informed people close to her about the puja and around 30 people attended. If you would have liked to be there but were not informed, please accept our apologies. In the short time available and due to our sadness about Inge’s death, we may not have thought of all the people who were also close to her.

All are welcome to offer practice for Inge from home, many resources can be found here, particularly Medicine Buddha practice: Death and Dying: Practices and Resources (fpmt.org/death/).

We would like to note that Inge was also involved in the creation of this information we share with you today. May she continue on the Bodhisattva path with the blessings of the Buddhas and always be guided by perfect Mahayana teachers!

Written by Aryatara Institute, we offer grateful thanks for this inspiring tribute.

Please pray that Inge Siebenwurst may never ever be reborn in the lower realms, may she be immediately born in a pure land where she can be enlightened or to receive a perfect human body, meet the Mahayana teachings and meet a perfectly qualified guru and by only pleasing the guru’s mind, achieve enlightenment as quickly as possible. More advice from Lama Zopa Rinpoche on death and dying is available, see Death and Dying: Practices and Resources (fpmt.org/death/).

To read more obituaries from the international FPMT mandala, and to find information on submission guidelines, please visit our new Obituaries page (fpmt.org/media/obituaries/).

Geshe Tsultrim leading the lantern parade at the Big Love Festival. Photo courtesy of CI.

On September 26-28, Chenrezig Institute, the first Tibetan Buddhist Dharma center in Australia, and one of the oldest in the West, celebrated its 50th anniversary serving sentient beings with a joyous Big Love Festival. We are so happy to share this inspiring report of the event from Chenrezig Institute: 

Founded in September 1974, Chenrezig Institute was the first Tibetan Buddhist center established outside the Indian subcontinent by The Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT). The institute has flourished into a dedicated facility for Buddhist education and practice, where sentient beings can come to learn Dharma, meditate, purify and collect merits.

Closing ceremony of the Big Love Festival for Chenrezig Institute’s 50th anniversary celebration. Photo courtesy of CI.

The Big Love Festival was held on the vast grounds of Chenrezig Institute, between September 26-28. The festival brought together highly respected Buddhist teachers such as resident Chenrezig Institute teacher Geshe Phuntsok Tsultrim, Khenrinpoche Geshe Chonyi, Geshe Tenzin Zopa, Tenzin Osel Hita, two geshemas—including Geshema Namdol Phuntsok, the main teacher and chant leader at Kopan Nunnery—and many other geshes and special guests who facilitated and attended the celebrations from around the world. Furthermore, Ven. Roger Kunsang, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FPMT Inc, attended and oversaw the celebrations and ceremonies throughout the festival.

Sera Je monks working on the Chenrezig sand mandala. Photo courtesy of CI.

Six geshes from Sera Je Monastery attended Chenrezig Institute both before and during the Big Love Festival, offering their precious time and experience. The Sera monks performed a rare and powerful puja before the festival to honor the Dharma protectors and extensive offerings and prayers were given. Before the festival commenced, they worked on the Medicine Buddha sand mandala, and during the festival they constructed the sand mandala of Chenrezig, Buddha of Compassion, in the gompa.

Buddha statue at the new gompa land blessing. Photo courtesy of CI.

Crystal stupa containing Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s holy relics. Photo courtesy of CI.

There were spontaneous and very auspicious moments happening during the three days of the festival.

• On the first day, a Buddha statue from India arrived at the new gompa land, sponsored by a Korean group who were also present. Twenty-seven geshes and all Sangha present offered a blessing ceremony.  
• On the second day of the festival, the Kangyur and Tengyur miraculously arrived unexpectedly. 
• On the third day, Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s holy relics were placed into a very beautiful crystal stupa that arrived that day. The crystal stupa was hand crafted by artists in China. 

Throughout the festival, Tibetan thangka master, Phenpo Tendhar, exhibited a body of artwork in the gompa. He also offered workshops alongside the great artist Pema; both offering their time and skills to support the development of Tibetan art in the West. 

Other events throughout the festival included: a Lama Tsongkhapa bhumtsok puja led by Geshe Tenzin Zopa, vibrant Q & A panels, geshe debates and conversations in the Nalanda Masters Garden, guided meditation yoga sessions, Dharma Kids activities in the mornings and the afternoons, inspirational talks, and workshops in the Garden of Enlightenment. 

The attendees of the festival rejoiced in a Tibetan songs and dance performance with Topgyal and Tsering, chanting with the Sera Je monks, art displays, live music performances, a Welcome to Country with Aunty Bridgette Chilly Davis, and an impressive lantern parade light offering at dusk, culminating with a beautiful evening concert with Sacred Earth. 

Lama Tsongkhapa bumtsok puja. Photo courtesy of CI.

The event not only honored the institute’s legacy but also reinforced its commitment to nurturing compassion and wisdom in the hearts of attendees, bringing together a diverse community united in celebration of love, peace, and spiritual growth.

With grateful thanks to Chenrezig Institute’s director, Cheng Hong Quek, and acting SPC Thubten Kunphen, for providing the details of this joyful celebration. 

Are you an FPMT center, study group, or project that has a joyful or inspiring story to share with the FPMT community? We’d love to hear it! 

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Lama Zopa Rinpoche offering a teaching before the 2016 Amitabha Buddha Festival, Buddha Amitabha Pure Land, Washington State, USA. Photo by Ven. Lobsang Sherab.

This month’s e-news brings you important news, updates, and causes for rejoicing including:

• An update on the Stupa of Complete Victory
• Teachings from Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche
• An update from the FPMT Board of Directors
• Newly available and revised materials for your practice
• News on the recent Amitabha Buddha Festival in Washington State
• Grants for healthcare and essential services in 2024
• Changes and opportunities within the FPMT organization
• An update on Land of Medicine Buddha’s 100,000 Stupa project
• How to help the devastating situation in Thame

And so much more! 

Please read this month’s e-news in its entirety. 

Visit our subscribe page to receive the monthly FPMT International Office e-News directly in your email inbox.

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Mahabodhi Stupa with the row of Kadampa stupas, from the back. Photo courtesy of the 100,000 Stupa Project.

On the advice of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Land of Medicine Buddha (LMB) has been building a 39-foot-tall Mahabodhi Stupa in California. This stupa will be the main attraction of the 100,000 Stupa Project in a beautiful garden featuring an area to meditate, thousands of memorial stupas, places to perform prostrations, and areas with spots for reflection and contemplation. This is a project first conceived by Rinpoche in the late 90s, and breaking ground in 2014 to begin construction. We recently received some exciting updates from Project Manager Denice Macy on this incredible holy object project and we invite you to read the below report and rejoice!

Project Manager Denice Macy waves from the grounds of the Stupa Project.

What Was Accomplished from 2020 to Present

River of Nectar. Photo courtesy of the 100,000 Stupa Project.

Fulfilling two of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s pieces of advice:

• Garden/grounds: A River of Nectar flows! When Rinpoche came to inspect the Stupa Project in 2019, he discussed with the Project Manager, Denice Macy, ideas for beautifying the grounds. Before the 2019 visit, Rinpoche had mentioned that a Japanese style of garden would be pleasing. As Rinpoche and Denice discussed ideas for landscaping, Rinpoche expressed the wish for a river with mantras placed inside to bless any beings who drink or touch the water. With input from feng shui master Peter Lung, a River of Nectar arose. Water flows slowly down the hillside, over six mini waterfalls. At each waterfall is placed a stone carved with the OM MANI PADME HUM mantra. The mantra stones are carved in six languages: Tibetan, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Hindi, and Mongolian. Statues, dragons, and other animals—from Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s house in Aptos—were placed along the banks of the river.
• Lighting the Stupa: Following Rinpoche’s advice, colored lights in the four directions were installed during Losar this year and offered every evening as well as blue lights inside the shrine. The five color lights correspond to the colors of the five tathagatas.

Work on the Stupa continues:

• Main Stupa: Gelek Sherpa continues to apply decorative panels to our Mahabodhi Stupa. All the scaffolding have been removed and he is currently working on the ground level preparing thirty-six niches where Buddhas and Taras will reside.
• Large Kadampa Stupas: This summer we completed the casting, filling, and mounting of the large Kadampa stupas on our first mandala wall – 146 stupas in. Of these, approximately fifty stupas remain available for sponsorship. This year we have opened opportunities for stupa reservation in advance. Several stupas have been reserved with two that include not only the blessed ashes of the stupa sponsor, but also of their dog!
• Small Kadampa Stupas: Our mandala wall was built to hold many stupas, with four horizontal niches running lengthwise to house five-inch stupas. We received the first batch of 1,200 five-inch Kadampa stupas in 2023. We held two mantra rolling parties to create mantra rolls of the Four Dharmakaya Relic Mantras and filled these stupas with mantras and incense. These small stupas have been mounted on the mandala wall. Sponsors names will be written on a sign at the stupa site. Of these +1,000 stupas we have found sponsors for 300 stupas. Rejoice! 

Shakyamuni Buddha and Green Tara statues which will be placed in all the niches on the ground floor of the Mahabodhi Stupa. Photo courtesy of the 100,000 Stupa Project.

What is Planned for 2025 and Beyond

• Main Stupa: Buddhas and Taras, oh my! Big News! This year we sought advice on the type of statues to place in the niches on the ground floor of our Mahabodhi Stupa. Thankfully, Venerable Roger was able to consult Khandro-la (Rangjung Neljorma Khadro Namsel Drönme), who advised: “It is very good if you have in all the spaces (niches) Buddha Shakyamuni in one and next Green Tara, so alternate these two statues in all the ‘niches’ available. This is very good, especially for the success, quick success, of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Holy Wishes.” With the invaluable help of Kabir from Root Institute, we were able to enlist Ratnakar, a talented sculptor in Rajasthan, India, to create eighteen sculptures each of Shakyamuni Buddha and Green Tara. We anticipate the statues will be ready to ship to us in January 2025. The statues then will be mounted onto the niches with a verse placed beneath. We will be opening up sponsorship opportunities for these Buddhas and Taras in the coming year.
• Completion of the Main Stupa: We anticipate the main stupa will be completed in the fall of 2026.
• Enshrinement and Consecration: We are thrilled over the moon to hear that our Mahabodhi Stupa will be the home of the holy tooth relics of our most precious Lama Zopa Rinpoche in the America continent. Venerable Roger wishes that we have a grand consecration once the Mahabodhi Stupa is complete and we are ready to enshrine Rinpoche’s holy tooth relic. We will be inviting lamas, benefactors, and students from around the world for a day of blessings and rejoicing.

One of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Vast Visions is to have 100,000 stupas around the world and we rejoice in being a part of fulfilling his holy wish.

With grateful thanks to Denice Macy for this inspiring report! 

Learn more about the 100,000 Stupa Project: https://landofmedicinebuddha/100000-stupa-project/

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Amitabha Budda statue and altar at Buddha Amitabha Pure Land, Washington State, USA. September 14, 2014. Photo by Julia Sanderson.

After a week of preparations, Buddha Amitabha Pure Land (BAPL), in Washington State, USA, hosted an Amitabha Buddha Festival for the seventh time, attended by thirty people. The festival was envisioned by Lama Zopa Rinpoche to honor the large Amitabha Buddha statue which is on the land at BAPL. Rinpoche created the text for the celebration, basing it on Lama Tsongkhapa’s text for the Monlam celebration. The text includes an extensive bath offering, prayers to the 35 Buddhas of Confession, and an extensive offering practice, similar to one done during a long life puja.

The local FPMT center, Pamtingpa, is located about an hour from Buddha Amitabha Pure Land, and students from there, as well as from friends from a nearby town, helped prepare food and set everything up for the puja.

Yangsi Rinpoche accepted an invitation to attend this festival and led a beautiful motivation before the puja began, reminding everyone how much effort Lama Zpoa Rinpoche had put into creating this festival, compiling the festival text, and the details Rinpoche put into making sure all of the offerings were of best quality and beautifully arranged—all so that students would have the opportunity to create extensive merit. Yangsi Rinpoche also emphasized that all of this merit would be dedicated for the quick return of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and for the welfare of all beings.

Ven. Thubten Wongmo with Yangsi Rinpoche, Buddha Amitabha Pure Land, September 14. Photo by Julia Sanderson.

The puja itself starts off with refuge and bodhicitta, bath offering, then the extensive prayer to the Thirty-Five Buddhas, “The Flowing Water of the Ganga, a Thorough Praise of the Thirty-Five Sugatas,” which lists the various negative karmas that each of the thirty-five buddhas purifies.

Next in the text, all of the various traditional offerings are made to Guru Amitabha: The three Dharma robes and begging bowl, the seven objects of a King’s reign, the eight auspicious signs and substances etc. For lots of the offerings Lama Zopa Rinpoche advised to have many of the same offering available. Rinpoche said to do this so that the organizers could hand them out and everyone could participate in actually physically making the offerings. Rinpoche advised to have actual representations of each of the offerings made, and personally bought many of them, including many small horses, elephants, giant umbrellas, banners, representations of kings, queens, ministers, etc. Many people attending are not necessarily Buddhist but Ven. Tenzin Tharchin, a monk who resides at Buddha Amitabha Buddha Land, noticed that, “Everyone really gets into the puja and they enjoy very much participating in making the offerings.”

Two of the last offering verses were composed by Lama Zopa Rinpoche himself: “Offering Trucks, Cars, Trains, and Other Vehicles,” and “Offering Airplanes.” Ven. Tharchin shares, “The toy car that Yangsi Rinpoche offered for the first of these made a sound of a car speeding along faster and faster and then pulling the handbrake into a screeching turn! Rinpoche kept playing the sound effects while all the other toy vehicles were being handed out to the others which caused everyone to crack up with laughter!”

Offering Trucks, Cars, Trains, and Other Vehicles
Due to the merits of having offered these vehicles
May ourselves and all transmigratory beings
Realize the basis of the two truths.
(The truth for the absolute wisdom and the truth for the all obscuring mind)
And by completing the path method possessed by wisdom and wisdom possessed by method
Cross from beyond the oceans of samsaric suffering and
May the unified holy body and mind of Buddha be achieved.

Offering Airplanes
Due to the method of having offered these airplanes
And especially by the blessings of the Virtuous Friend,
The essence of embodiment of numberless Buddhas.
May ourselves and all transmigratory beings actualize the unification
Of holy body and holy mind of no more learning
In the brief lifetime of degenerated time.

Thus, may all the wishes of the students, the benefactors, the benefactors of the Dharma centers, the sentient beings who rely on me, those whom I have promised to pray for, those whose names have been given to me, and those who merely see us, hear us, remember us, touch us, talk to us, see photos of us, and dream of us, be fulfilled in accordance with the Dharma. At the time of our death, may we see Amitabha directly, and be able to go without obstruction to the Blissful Realm.

Participants in the Amitabha Buddha Festival, September 14, 2024. Photo by Julia Sanderson.

After the puja, a lovely lunch was offered and students from Pamtingpa Center performed the Dance of the Twenty-One Qualities of Tara. “It was very beautiful and moving,” shares Ven. Tharchin. “In the backdrop behind the dancers was a large thangka of Mother Tara smiling down on everyone.” Next, a good friend of Amitabha Buddha Land and of Pamtingpa Center, Gary Davis, chanted two Native American songs with much devotion.

Gary Davis offering chants in front of the Amitabha Buddha statue. Photo by Julia Sanderson.

“One of the chants was about the Aurora Borealis which is held to be very sacred in the tradition and another about paying attention to the voice that comes from the sky,” Ven. Tharchin explained. “It was a wish of Lama Zopa Rinpoche that we represent and include the local traditions in the festival and so we were very grateful that Gary accepted our request to perform.”

Yangsi Rinpoche offering the Black Hat Dance, September 14, 2024. Photo by Julia Sanderson.

The festivities concluded with Yangsi Rinpoche performing a Black Hat Dance for all. The dance is performed as a method to eliminate and purify obstacles. He had recently been offered a full costume by one of his students when he was in France so he then had the thought to bring the costume with him to the festival and to perform the dance for all. “We asked Rinpoche where he had learned the dance,” Ven. Tharchin shared, “but Rinpoche seemed to indicate he hadn’t actually formally learned it before! You would not have known. Rinpoche performed the dance very elegantly and you could see the depth of concentration in Rinpoche’s eyes as he performed it. Everyone in attendance found it very moving and it was a perfect conclusion to a very special day for all of us.”

With grateful thanks to Ven. Tenzin Tharchin for providing details of this special event and to all who helped make the festival a success. 

The Amitabha Festival Book: Extensive Benefits from Now up to Enlightenment (Peerless Happiness), Including Liberation from Saṃsāra (Definite Happiness) is available for all to use. This text is in relation to Amitabha Buddha but it can be used as a basis for another deity by replacing the praises and prayers of Amitabha with those of the deity.

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service. 

Participants in the recent Foundation Service Seminar Retreat held at Vajrapani Institute from September 10-14.

Led by experienced facilitators Amy Cayton and François Lecointre, the latest Foundation Service Seminar (FSS) held at Vajrapani Institute, USA, from September 10-14, 2024, was a great success, with the 16 participants from seven different FPMT affiliates from the North American Region working joyfully on how to better integrate practice and service. We are pleased to share the following report of this FSS by Nina Highfill, Executive Director of the Thubten Norbu Ling Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA. 

FSS and the Family Feeling

Lama Yeshe during a family gathering at Vajrapani Institute, California, US, 1983. Photo by Carol Royce, courtesy of Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive.

Lama Yeshe, the founder of the Foundation for the Preservation for the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), believed that the most important thing for us to thrive as an organization, is to cherish and nurture the family feeling among us. How often do we pause to appreciate the connections we forge in our Dharma practice? The Foundation Services Seminar (FSS) reminded me of the profound impact these relationships have on our journey.

I did not know how important this “family feeling” was to Lama. I didn’t know many things when I arrived at the Vajrapani Institute in California, USA, on a sunny September afternoon, to join the 5-day FSS retreat experience.

The aims of the FSS are to support individuals wishing to offer service at any level within our organization, explore how we can serve in ways that are most beneficial to ourselves and others, and review the guiding principles and structure of FPMT. As I walked into the gompa for the opening session, this was exactly what I expected. However, as the days unfolded, I discovered that I was receiving much more than I had anticipated.

Learning Experience

Nestled among towering redwoods and full of holy objects and relics, the serene atmosphere of Vajrapani was imbued with a palpable sense of peace. Together with 15 fellow FPMT volunteers, we were gently and skillfully guided by the seminar leaders, Amy Cayton and Francois Lecointre, through interactive presentations, discussions and a variety of exercises, introducing us to the FPMT history, structure, programs and projects. We also learned many practical skills, like dealing with stress, learning to communicate more effectively and to deal with complaints or mental health issues.

Francois Lecointre leading the FSS at Vajrapani Institute, CA, USA, September 2024. Photo by Nina Highfill.

I was blown away by the richness of the FPMT tradition, culture and program and by the vast scope and huge impact of FPMT’s charitable projects, which not only support the ordained Sangha and provide educational scholarships but also promote social services and animal rescue, all in alignment with Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s vision for a more compassionate world. Did you know that in 2023 alone, as FPMT, we offered almost $3.5 million to charitable projects? Isn’t it a reason to celebrate and rejoice?

Personal Insights

Lama Zopa Rinpoche once said, “The big thing is how to always enjoy when offering service, regardless of what’s going on.” When things get busy and stressful, it is easy to forget this and to spiral down the cycle of frustration, annoyance, and disappointment with ourselves and others. Despite our best intentions, we end up falling into our old, well-ingrained patterns of conflict or dissatisfaction. One of the exercises during the seminar brought it home. We were asked to imagine that we have an important and very urgent task to finish and we are running through the center in stress, while a newcomer is requesting help. We played out two scenarios in pairs—one in our “usual” state of mind and one after reflecting on bodhicitta for a few moments before we responded to the stranger. The type of connection we were all able to generate and the quality and pleasure of the conversation in the second scenario left us with new appreciation that bodhicitta is not an ideal we learn about from ancient texts, but a mindset we can cultivate every day, moment by moment, so that we can enjoy the service and show up for others with kindness, compassion, and openness.

FSS participants circumambulating the prayer wheel at Vajrapani Institute, September 2024. Photo by Nina Highfill.

On a personal level, the FSS helped me to better grasp Lama Yeshe’s and Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s vision for the FPMT and for the role of the centers within it. It was very timely, as at my home center, Thubten Norbu Ling in New Mexico, USA, we are currently working on our 5-year strategy. I took fervent notes throughout the seminar and had a few epiphany moments regarding the direction for our center and our guiding principles. I now feel confident that we have a solid foundation and are moving forward toward fulfilling the founding lamas’ vision and benefiting as many sentient beings as possible. 

 Concluding Reflections

It was hard to leave the beauty and the profound energy of Vajrapani and the wonderful group of FSS participants. Somewhere in the process, we have not only learned about the “family feeling.” We started to experience it with each other. However, I left California with a new sense of optimism and energy. FPMT is an amazing organization with a unique and vast vision and beautiful values rooted in authentic wisdom and compassion. But most of all, we are a family of warm-hearted, sincere Dharma practitioners, who have an endless amount of talent and wisdom among us. There is nothing we cannot accomplish, if we put our heads and our hearts together!

As we offer service in our respective centers and services, let us remember that we are helping our lamas to realize their vast visions and that our service is our practice and our offering to sentient beings. Let’s offer it with the mind of bodhicitta and a sense of joy. And if you ever feel in need of inspiration and warm connection, remember to look up and join the next Foundation Services Seminar!

Nina Highfill, currently the Executive Director of The Buddhist Center Thubten Norbu Ling in Santa Fe, NM, USA, is the founder and former director of the Lhagsam Center in Zurich, Switzerland. She is a devoted student of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and currently lives in Crestone, Colorado. Originally from Poland, she loves traveling to Nepal and considers Kopan Monastery her spiritual home. She loves reading, studying, running, and being in the nature. 

Chandrakirti Centre, New Zealand, is hosting an FSS from November 6-10. Read more information and reserve your place.

To learn more about the FPMT Foundation Service Seminar:
https://fpmt.org/education/training/#fss

Foundation for the Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), is a Tibetan Buddhist organization dedicated to the transmission of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and values worldwide through teaching, meditation and community service.