FPMT News Around the World

Fireworks during the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion’s Festival of Lights, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia, May 30, 2015. Photo by Pic Nhung Tran via JadeBuddhaPeace on Twitter.

On May 30, 2015, the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion in Bendigo, Australia, celebrated its Wesak Festival of Light during what in Tibetan is known as Saka Dawa, the holiday celebrating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and parinirvana. The celebration included the interfaith sharing of peace flags made by Bendigo schoolchildren, lively cultural dances and drumming performances, fireworks, and the unvailing of Tummo, the inner-fire breathing dragon, installed on the stupa to protect it and its visitors. Liz Martin caught the festivities on film.

Watch Wesak Festival of Light at the Great Stupa from Liz Martin on Vimeo.

The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, directed by long-time student Ian Green, will be the largest stupa in the Western world once completed.

Mandala brings you news of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from nearly 160 FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like what you read on Mandala, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

Dorje Chang Institute celebrating His Holiness’ 80th birthday, New Zealand, July 2015. Photo by Raul Cornejo Reyes.

Last week, we shared stories of how FPMT centers, projects and services were celebrating His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday. Since then, we’ve received a few more updates, which means more rejoicing for us all!

Community lunch after offerings and prayers for His Holiness at Dorje Chang Institute, New Zealand, July 2015. Photo by Raul Cornejo Reyes.

“The Dorje Chang Institute community joined by members of the Auckland Tibetan community and Chinese-Tibetan Friendship Association celebrated His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday with long life prayers, light offerings, Tibetan song, a Tibetan tune on violin, a shared community dinner and homemade cake,” wrote Ven. Gyalten Wangmo, the spritual program coordinator (SPC) at Dorje Chang, which is in Auckland, New Zealand. “Auspiciously, one of the members of the Chinese-Tibetan Friendship Association offered a scrolled poem inspired by His Holiness that he composed at Wu Tai Shan (Five Peak Manjushri Mountain) in China.”

Offerings for His Holiness’ birthday at Longku Center, Bern, Switzerland, July 2015

Doing animal liberation for worms at Longku Center, Bern, Switzerland, July 2015

Ven. Tenzin Chogkyi at Gendun Drubpa Buddhist Centre, B.C., Canada, July 2015

Aryatara Institut, Munich, Germany, July 2015

“The Aryatara Institut in Munich celebrated the birthday of His Holiness by creating tsa-tsas followed by an animal liberation,” shared Robert Schwabe, SPC at Aryatara Institut. “Starting at 6 p.m. more than 17 people came to create tsa-tsas of Shakyamuni Buddha, Green Tara, Padmasambhava and Buddha Maitreya. The participation was higher than we expected. We even ran out of tsa-tsa molds, so people had to wait a little until the molds had dried and could be used again.

“At 7:30, we paused the tsa-tsa creation with performing an animal liberation from the FPMT prayer book. Some people brought their own dogs from home. The Aryatara Institut bought 240 house crickets from the pet shop that were meant as food for reptiles. We recited prayers and mantras for the benefit of these animals while some people circumambulated a stupa. One participant later said that she felt happy and a strong connection to the crickets she was holding during the circumambulation. The house crickets were later freed by the participants in a nearby park.

“After the liberation, people stayed to continue creating more tsa-tsas and also to paint them in gold.

“It was a very joyful event. People were very happy to have come and reported looking forward to the next opportunity to create tsa-tsas and liberate animals.”

Aryatara Institut, Munich, Germany, July 201

FPMT.org shares news of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like our news updates, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Lama Yeshe during His Holiness’ visit to O.Sel.Ling Centro de Retiros, Spain, 1982. Photo courtesy of the Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive.

From “FPMT’s First Request to His Holiness,” Mandala October-December 2011:

“In 1979, FPMT made its first official request to His Holiness the Dalai Lama to give teachings in centers of the newly forming organization. FPMT repeated the invitation in 1980 and again in 1981. Upon the last request, His Holiness accepted. When Lama Yeshe heard the good news, he commented that his ‘job had been successful.’ His Holiness visiting Lama Yeshe’s centers guaranteed their future growth and the success of Lama’s work to establish Buddha’s teachings in the West.

“During the tour, which occurred in September and October 1982, His Holiness visited three European FPMT centers – Nagarjuna Institute in Spain, Institut Vajra Yogini in France and Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa in Italy. It was by all accounts a tremendous, auspicious success. Since this first invitation, many FPMT centers worldwide have been blessed to host His Holiness for public talks and empowerments.”

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama at Chenrezig Institute, Eudlo, Queensland, Australia, June 2011. Photo by Bonnie Jenkins.

After His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s first visit Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa in 1982, Lama Yeshe had this to say about the visit’s significance:

“For His Holiness to come to the Western world is the insurance that Buddhism has been established culturally in the various countries and centers, that Buddhism is not some kind of trip. It is insurance that Buddhism is something cultural, something truly and sincerely involved in serious work, and is becoming part of the future for the Western world. I really feel that His Holiness coming to Europe is like Guru Shakyamuni coming to this earth to make firm the Dharma, the wisdom light that is the path to liberation for all European people. …

“I think His Holiness is the light to purify all kinds of negativities that are vibrating – objectifying Buddhism and, within Buddhist circles, holding on to sectarianism. I think His Holiness is the completely equanimous representative of not only the Tibetan tradition, but of the entire world’s religions: he is the universal representative.

“Therefore, especially at this critical time, I think His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s coming is very important for all people, not only for religious people, but even non-religious people, to make the world community harmonious. His Holiness’ message, from my understanding when listening to his lectures, is universal love, universal compassion, and for each of us to take universal responsibility to bring universal people to happiness. Somehow everybody understands that message.

“I think the Dalai Lama’s coming is an incredible, incredible blessing. I and the Western people really feel something very unusual now that His Holiness has come. There is some kind of incredible harmony and good understanding between everyone in our global community. I think this understanding brings better peace, liberation and harmony to the world. I think it is very important because His Holiness teaches the best way for harmonious development, individually and universally.”

Lama Yeshe’s complete comments are available on Bringing Dharma to the West, a DVD from the Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive featuring Lama Yeshe’s 1982 interviews with Geoff Jukes and Brian Beresford about Buddhism coming to the West, the development of FPMT centers and related topics.

FPMT.org shares news of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like our news updates, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Lama Zopa Rinpoche at Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa, Italy, June 2014. Photo by Ven. Roger Kunsang.

“[I would like] for FPMT to offer service to His Holiness the Dalai Lama as much as possible and to be able to fulfill His Holiness’ wishes. This is the highest priority for the organization,” Lama Zopa Rinpoche said, outlining his Vast Vision for FPMT. Throughout the past several decades, FPMT centers, projects, services and students have been involved in organizing and sponsoring His Holiness’ public talks and tours, supporting His Holiness’ projects, helping the Gelug monasteries in India and creating interfaith dialogues around the world, among other activities.

“FPMT’s Relationship to His Holiness the Dalai Lama” in Mandala October-December 2011 illustrates further the special relationship between His Holiness and the broader FPMT organization:

[Lama Zopa] Rinpoche is someone who follows my guidance sincerely, very expansively and with one hundred percent trust. He possesses unwavering faith and pure samaya; not only has he pure samaya and faith but whatever I instruct, Zopa Rinpoche has the capability to accomplish it. So whatever dedications Lama Zopa Rinpoche makes, I also pray to accomplish this and you should do the same thing. – HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA, DECEMBER 2006

Whenever possible, FPMT adopts His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s advice. And when appropriate, FPMT acts to help support Tibet’s struggle for autonomy as advised by His Holiness.

As explained by Lama Zopa Rinpoche, FPMT’s relationship with His Holiness is definitive: “The most important thing, the heart thing for FPMT, however many billions of projects we have, the most important thing is to do what pleases most His Holiness the Dalai Lama.”

This respect and gratitude for His Holiness held by FPMT also extends to all Tibetans. “It is important to repay the kindness of the Tibetan people, who have preserved the complete Buddhadharma, not only Vajrayana but the whole path; they have preserved all the teachings for a long time,” Lama Zopa Rinpoche commented in 2008. “Due to this we non-Tibetans are able to receive the complete teachings, enjoy and make our lives meaningful.”

Every year, FPMT offers a long life puja for His Holiness and supports His Holiness’ efforts.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama during a visit to FPMT International Office, May 2013. Photo by Leah Nash.

Over the years, His Holiness has visited many FPMT centers, including Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa last year, FPMT International Office and Maitripa College in 2013, Kurukulla Center in the United States in 2012 and Chenrezig Institute in Australia in 2011. 

Through the merit that is being created by all the service being offered to His Holiness and all the celebrations for His Holiness’ 80th birthday that have taken place at FPMT centers, projects and services around the world, may the relationship between FPMT and His Holiness continue to flourish.

You can read more stories about His Holiness’ activities and visits to FPMT centers on FPMT.org and Mandala.

FPMT.org shares news of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like our news updates, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

A cake for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday at Tara Institute, Australia, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Tara Institute.

There were no shortages of beautiful cakes and offerings at the celebrations for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday that took place at FPMT centers, projects and services around the world.

Tara Institute in Melbourne, Australia, wrote:

“We celebrated His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday with our annual puja for His Holiness and afterwards the Tara Institute Study Group cooked and served lunch for the community. It was also the occasion of the 80th birthday of our resident geshe, Geshe Doga, a week later for which we also had a cake. So two birthday cakes!”

Geshe Doga with Tara Institute students at birthday luncheon, Australia, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Tara Institute.

80th birthday cake for Geshe Doga, Tara Institute, Australia, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Tara Institute.

Panchen Losang Chogyen Gelugzentrum in Vienna, Austria, was hosting Dagri Rinpoche during their celebration of His Holiness’ birthday, which included a puja.

Dagri Rinpoche leading puja at Panchen Losang Chogyen Gelugzentrum, Vienna, Austria, July 2015. Photo courtesy of PLC on Facebook.

Offerings at Panchen Losang Chogyen Gelugzentrum for His Holiness’ 80th birthday, Vienna, Austria, July 2015. Photo courtesy of PLC on Facebook.

Land of Medicine Buddha in California, US, celebrated His Holiness’ birthday at the Mahabodhi Stupa that they are in the process of building.

“Ven. Drimay led a motivation and practice in front of an altar for His Holiness. We then went for a pilgrimage around our Eight Verses Trail. We stopped at each verse to read and reflect on the verse and how to bring the Dharma into our lives. At the end we returned to the stupa site to make light offerings and prayers that His Holiness remain with us for a long time and dedicated the merit of our practice to that,” Land of Medicine Buddha shared on their Facebook page.

“Eleven-year old Mia Stafford began her offering of running 108 laps (miles) around our Eight Verses Trail to benefit our Mahabhodhi Stupa project. Such immense compassion generated by a young girl! #withcompassion.”

Land of Medicine Buddha, July 2015. Photo courtesy of LMB on Facebook.

Shantideva Meditation Center in New York City, US, shared this about their gathering for His Holiness: 

“The celebration started at 7 p.m. with a guided meditation on Chenrezig. We continued with the Four-arm Chenrezig practice and chanted the Chenrezig mantra for 20 minutes. Afterwards we all sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to His Holiness and shared a delicious cake.”

Shantideva Meditation Center, New York, July 2015. Photo courtesy of SMC on Facebook.

Many other FPMT centers, projects and services honored His Holiness the Dalai Lama on his 80th birthday, doing practice and prayers and making offerings. There is so much beneficial activity in which the international FPMT community can rejoice. Please join us in appreciating and sharing joy for these celebrations.

Celebrating His Holiness’ birthday at Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa, Italy, July 2015. Photo courtesy of ILTK on Facebook.

FPMT.org shares news of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like our news updates, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

Celebrating His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s birthday at the National Circus, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, July 2015. Photo courtesy of FPMT Mongolia.

FPMT Mongolia and Gandan Do Ngag Shedrup Ling Center participated in a big 80th birthday celebration for His Holiness the Dalai Lama organized by all the Buddhist organizations in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. They write:

“It was a first time we had a big celebration like this and was initiated by Özer Rinpoche. The event was held at the National Circus. Gandan Do Ngag Shedrup Ling Center offered the publishing of the prayer books for the celebration. Many of our friends and students attended the event.”       

Kurukulla Center’s resident geshe, Geshe Tenley, releases a lobster during an animal liberation event for His Holiness’ birthday, Massachusetts, US, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Kurukulla Center.

Kurukulla Center in Massachusetts, US, had two birthday events. Geshe Ngawang Tenley, resident geshe at the center, sent this message about the first event, a lobster liberation: 

“Happy Birthday to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

“All dear brothers and sisters, [on Sunday] we performed a wonderful animal liberation in the Atlantic Ocean. We liberated 361 lobsters (over 500 pounds). Thank you for joining with us. This is a gift from all of us for His Holiness’ 80th birthday. To save the lives of sentient beings is the best practice for long life. We dedicate all our merits for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and all our teachers. All friends please REJOICE! Rejoicing is the best practice. Lama Tsongkhapa said the least effort, most merit is to rejoice in the merit of others.”

Kurukulla Center students and Geshe Tenley doing animal liberation practice before releasing the lobsters, Massachusetts, US, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Kurukulla Center.

Scott Buquor, from Kurukulla Center, shared this about the second event: 

“In the early morning of July 6, the Tibetan community of the Boston area gathered at Kurukulla Center in honor of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday. Sponsors arrived at 6 a.m. to prepare tea and sweet rice. About 200 members of the Tibetan community arrived soon after. Geshe Tenley led the procession to usher in the portrait of His Holiness to the gompa, and the community performed many prayers and offered khatas to His Holiness. After the puja, everyone gathered outside for sangsol (incense offering). Birthday cake was enjoyed by all, as well as traditional songs and dance. All of these offerings and prayers were dedicated to the long life of His Holiness. Many people stayed through the morning to relax, enjoy the friendly community, and do circumambulation around the Kalachakra stupa.”

Kurukulla Center celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, Massachusetts, US, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Kurukulla Center.

Judy Wagner, spiritual program coordinator at Buddha House in Australia, wrote:

“On the evening of July 6 Buddha House had a wonderful celebration to honor the 80th birthday of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

Students practicing at Buddha House, Australia, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Buddha House.

“Our resident teacher Ven. Thubten Dondrub led us in the sadhana ‘The Inseparability of the Spiritual Master and Avalokiteshavara.’ This beautiful sadhana was actually written by His Holiness.

“Over 30 people attended and we were also pleased to have Jampa Choephel join us. There were some new students, some older students, and even a couple who had no Buddhist experience that had attended the Learn to Meditate session earlier and felt such a wonderful atmosphere in the gompa that they asked to stay and join the celebration.

“After the sadhana and long life prayers for His Holiness, Ven. Dondrub and Jampa Choephel blessed the food and we all continued to celebrate over supper.

“Donations were collected for the FPMT Nepal Earthquake Support Fund.”

Hanging prayer flags with Geshe Lamsang at Centro Nagarjuna Valencia, Spain, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Centro Nagarjuna Valencia.

Centro Nagarjuna Valencia in Spain shared this: 

“To celebrate His Holiness’ 80th birthday we got up early and hung up many prayer flags. Geshe Lamsang, our resident geshe, did an incense puja, offering clouds of billowing aromatic white smoke. In the afternoon, we offered an auspicious sweet rice dish and tea, and watched together some videos of His Holiness, including the celebrations at the Glastonbury music festival in the UK. This was followed by Lama Chöpa puja with tsog offering, sandwiches and a birthday cake. To finish off a very enjoyable day, there was a present for everyone and Geshe-la gave out a special protection amulet from Ganden Monastery. Geshe-la spoke of the incomparable kindness of His Holiness and we made extensive prayers and dedications for his long life.”

Students at Centro Nagarjuna Valencia, Spain, July 2015. Photo courtesy of the Centro Nagarjuna Valencia.

Jamyang Buddhist Centre Leeds shared this report of their celebration:

“Jamyang Leeds hosted a party to celebrate the 80th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The day started with a Medicine Buddha puja and long life prayers. The center looked resplendent with offerings of flowers and food; it’s a wonder the tables could stand the weight! Next to the shrine was a lovely, large, smiling picture of the Dalai Lama draped with a white khata. We took time to reflect on everything he does to benefit all beings and to rejoice in his efforts! Shared lunch was a social event with masses of Tibetan food kindly supplied by Leeds-based Tibetans. We watched a series of videos of His Holiness, learned how to put on a Tibetan chuba, tried some Tibetan dancing and had a rousing chorus of ‘Happy Birthday to You’ and ‘For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.’ Who knew we were such a melodious and enthusiastic bunch! Some people had traveled quite a distance to join in the celebrations so were sent home with food packages and leftover momos were still in the fridge for Geshe Tashi’s teachings the next day. Do have a look at the video  our Facebook page to feel part of the day.”

Continuing this week, we’ll have more stories on celebrating His Holiness’ birthday and FPMT’s long-time commitment to supporting the realization of His Holiness’ wishes. You can also find more photos and stories on FPMT’s Facebook page.

FPMT.org shares news of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like our news updates, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

Losang Namgyal Rinpoche during His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday celebration in Kathmandu, Nepal, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Kopan Monastery.

News of celebrations of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday by FPMT centers, projects and services around the world are pouring in.

Kopan Monastery in Nepal participated in a huge birthday celebration organized by all the Gelug monasteries in Kathmandu. Thousands of people attended and made prayers and offerings under blue tarpaulins that were spread out as it was raining heavily. The event was at the Namgyal Middle Boarding School in Swayambu. Kopan monk Losang Namgyal Rinpoche carried the begging bowl in the procession.

Portrait of His Holiness by Lisa Sawlit

The Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive is making a special offer to recognize His Holiness. They write:

“To celebrate His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, we are offering everyone a free ebook: His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Illuminating the Path to Enlightenment, which includes His Holiness’ commentary on Atisha’s A Lamp for the Path to Enlightenment and Lama Tsongkhapa’s Lines of Experience. Ebook versions for every reader freely available through Friday, July 10 from Smashwords.* 

“We are also happy to announce that Audible has just released the audio book version of Illuminating the Path to Enlightenment. This audiobook is also freely available if you sign up for a one-month free trial on Audible. Or, if you are already an Audible member, you can use this month’s free credit to download the book. (http://bit.ly/AudioBook-Illuminating-The-Path)

“It is also a great day to enjoy the spectacular portrait of His Holiness that was created by artist Lisa Sawlit, in partnership with the Archive. To read the story about the creation of this amazing portrait and frame, see our website.”

Chandrakirti Centre in Nelson, New Zealand, wrote:

“We are in the middle of winter, so in the morning we recited the Golden Light Sutra and late afternoon we cuddled up by the fire at the center’s lounge and had a potluck dinner, did a Chenrezig practice with mani recitation, recited the long life prayer for His Holiness and had two lam-rim presentations on the precious human rebirth, and, impermanence and death.”

Birthday cake for His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Gyalwa Gyatso Center, California, US, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Gyalwa Gyatso Center.

Gyalwa Gyatso (Ocean of Compassion) Buddhist Center in Campbell, California, US, celebrated FPMT North America’s annual Compassion Day with a compassion meditation led by Ven. Drolma of Vajrapani Institute and followed with a birthday cake and movie with His Holiness, Transcending Negative Emotions to Create Happiness in Our Lives. They concluded the day with “Prayers to Control Earthquakes” led by Ven. Corradi of Tse Chen Ling Center. All students were encouraged to bring a canned food donation to their ongoing food drive or a donation for the Nepal Earthquake Support Fund.

Jinsiu Farlin celebrating His Holiness’ birthday, Tapai, Taiwan, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Jinsiu Farlin.

Jinsiu Farlin, FPMT center in Taipei, Taiwan celebrated His Holiness’ 80th birthday with resident teacher Geshe Gyurme and resident teacher of Heruka Center Geshe Tsethar. The center wrote:

“We began the celebration by reciting 16 Arhats puja, and concluded with the long version of His Holiness’ long life prayer. Then the center offered lunch for all the Sangha and participants.

“Starting from Saka Dawa this year, FPMT Taiwan inspired students to recite and accumulate Chenrezig short mantra dedicate for His Holiness’ long life. By July 6, FPMT Taiwan collected 16,488,492 mantra counts from Taiwan students and more mantra counts are still being sent in. FPMT Taiwan has presented the mantra counts with a small token of cash offerings to His Holiness’ office in Taiwan on July 5.”

His Holiness’ throne and birthday offerings at Jinsiu Farlin, Tapai Taiwan, July 2015. Photo courtesy of Jinsiu Farlin.

*Find the ebook Illuminating the Path to Enlightenment by His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Smashwords. (Establishing a free account on Smashwords is required.):
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/349457 

Continuing this week, we’ll have more stories on celebrating His Holiness’ birthday and FPMT’s long-time commitment to supporting the realization of His Holiness’ wishes. You can also find more photos and stories on FPMT’s Facebook page.

FPMT.org shares news of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like our news updates, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama admiring the large birthday cake presented to him during celebrations honoring his 80th birthday at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, USA on July 5, 2015. Photo/Tenzin Choejor/OHHDL via dalailama.com.

Celebrations of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, which is July 6 on the Western calendar, are taking place around the world. His Holiness is spending his birthday in Southern California in the US at the Global Compassion Summit. (For news and photos of the events, see #WithCompassion on Facebook and DalaiLama.com.)

FPMT spiritual director Lama Zopa Rinpoche, in a praise for His Holiness, said:

“Your Holiness is the great treasure of infinite compassion embracing all us sentient beings, the sole source of benefit and happiness of all us sentient beings, the sole refuge of all us sentient beings. Your Holiness is incomparably kinder to us than all the past, present and future Buddhas. We the fortunate disciples who have been fortunate to see your holy body and hear your holy speech make the following request.

“The kind Guru Shakyamuni Buddha, out of his great compassion, descended to this world of Dzambu in the Arya land of India for the sole purpose of bringing benefit and happiness to migratory beings by leading us to liberation and full enlightenment. … (Read the complete praise as a PDF.)”

Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi and Amitabha Buddhist Centre students doing Namgyälma puja for His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday, Singapore, July 2015. Photo courtesy ABC.

Following the inspiration of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, FPMT centers, projects and services have been celebrating His Holiness’ birthday. Many have organized special events and picnics. Ven. Tenzin Tsultrim shared what happened in Singapore:

“Amitabha Buddhist Centre in Singapore dedicated a full and meaningful day of prayers and practice in honor of His Holiness’ 80th birthday. Starting in the late morning, we organized a special animal liberation practice and with generous contributions from our members and friends, were able to liberate about 492,800 ‘la-la’ shellfish at sea. In the afternoon from 1:30 to 6 p.m., a large group participated in the recitation of the Golden Light Sutra. Never mind that today is Monday, people made the effort to take time off from work for the practice. 

“We capped our all-day celebration with a Namgyälma puja in the evening, led by our resident teacher, Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi and ABC’s sangha. Everyone who attended could take part in this puja of the long-life deity Namgyälma as we have the practice available in English. We had an enthusiastic turnout with about 200 ABC members and students coming to our prayer celebration. In addition, the just-published July/August issue of our newsletter, TASHI DELEK, pays special tribute to His Holiness with a cover feature highlighting a topic that our precious guide in the Dharma holds dear – compassion. We send our heaps of prayers for His Holiness to remain with us forever.” 

Losang Dragpa Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, had a night of offerings and mani mantra recitation for His Holiness’ birthday.

Tara Institute in Melbourne, Australia, celebrated His Holiness with a birthday puja on July 5 and combined it with a celebration of Geshe Doga, their resident geshe, who turns 80 next week.

Buddha House in Adelaide, Australia, celebrated His Holiness on July 6 doing the practice “The Inseparability of the Spiritual Master and Avalokiteshvara,” which was written by His Holiness. Afterwards they had coffee, tea and cake.

Lama Yeshe Ling Centre in greater Toronto, Canada, is celebrating His Holiness’ 80th birthday with a picnic at Dundas Valley. Center director Deborah Klassen wrote, “We are encouraging everyone to bring their friends and family. There will be singing, games, walking meditations and a lot more.”

FPMT North American centers, projects and services are celebrating His Holiness’ birthday as Compassion Day. Check out Compassion Day on Facebook – www.facebook.com/CompassionDay – for photos and stories.

Continuing this week, we’ll have more stories on celebrating His Holiness’ birthday and FPMT’s long-time commitment to supporting the realization of His Holiness’ wishes.

FPMT.org shares news of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like our news updates, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

Tenzin Ösel Hita, Losang Dragpa Centre, Sengalor, Malaysia, February 2015. Photo courtesy of Ldc Fpmt Facebook.

On February 19, Tenzin Ösel Hita, the recognized reincarnation of FPMT founder Lama Yeshe, made a surprise visit to Malaysian center Losang Dragpa Centre to participate in its Guru Puja for Losar, Tibetan New Year. Just before the puja began, Ösel gave a short talk and answered a few questions, which were transcribed by Carolyn Chan and edited by Yeo Puay Huei and Mandala for publication on FPMT.org. He began the question and answer portion saying, “I will try to answer as best as I can and if you have opposing views, then better still as we can then debate and understand better.”

Malaysia went through a lot of difficulties last year that affected a lot of young people too. The world is also seeing more terrorists. We get upset at all this, but at the same time, we are supposed to be like our guru. How do we gain a positive mind towards such harmful people?

Ösel: Very, very modern, ah. (Laughter) Very, very good question. To tackle this question, one point of view is the absolute bodhichitta mind. You slap me and I offer the other cheek. Then both of my cheeks will get red. Just joking.

One side is the bodhichitta mind where you give love even if you are beaten up. I think on the one hand, this is very good to do, but the extreme is not good. So, one has to put a limit. You can take the abuse up to one point and if you keep accepting this abuse, then it is not good for the abuser either. They might think they have the right to abuse people, and this will not help them. You are not really creating the cause for them to see their mistakes. If you always go, “OK, OK,” they keep doing the same. You have to cut the vicious pattern.

Some people say that the way to cut the cycle is to get more aggressive than the aggressor, in order to wake him up. But the solution to violence can never be violence. And even if you use aggressiveness to help the aggressor, it should come with love. It should be just a wake-up call for the aggressor. Everybody has their own point of view, but I think I would say that the solution to violence can never be violence. It leads to more suffering. My advice to you is to pray for the aggressor’s bad karma to clear away and for her to be able to recognize the fact that making other people suffer is bringing on more suffering for herself. For the one receiving the aggression, be aware of the need for balance. Don’t go to extremes. It is the middle path. That is what the lam-rim teaches.

Tenzin Ösel Hita at Amitabha Buddhist Centre, Singapore, November 2012. Photo courtesy of Amitabha Buddhist Centre.

Could you please share some insight about your predecessor? Have you seen your predecessor in your dreams?

Ösel: Actually, Lama Yeshe is my best friend. If it were not for him, I would probably work in a bar and be a singer. Thinking about life, “OMG, life is so complicated. What should I do? Should I try to read a book or search for a teacher? I am confused.” At least, I have some information due to my education. I have some answers to my questions. I have the luck and the blessing to be in contact with Buddhism and with some people.

I have only seen Lama Yeshe in photos and videos. And I love him very much. He is my best friend. He helps me a lot. Thanks to him, I have the luck to return.

What are your future plans?

Ösel: Right now, I am organizing a pilgrimage to India with Beatrix. [The pilgrimage took place in April 2015.] She is the work designer and also the organizer for the pilgrimage. Please, if any of you want to know, this is publicity time. (Laughter) We are organizing a pilgrimage to India, starting with Delhi, then to Dharamsala. In Dharamsala, we will be staying at Tushita Meditation Centre, then visiting Norbulingka and proceeding to the mountains. We will be going to Bodhgaya, Mahabodhi Stupa, Vulture’s Peak, Nalanda, Varanasi, Sarnath, Lumbini, Kathmandu, Kopan Monastery and Kopan Nunnery and thereafter Boudhanath and Swayambunath and Mahakala Caves. There will be talks along the way.

The group will be small. Because it is the first time I’m doing this, I want it to be as smooth as possible. But I also want to warn you, it will be hard practice and not just happy, happy. You have to do some hard work and put your mind into practice. It is going to be a practical way and will last for a total of 15 days.

And this is the first pilgrimage I am organizing, and I do not know whether it will be the last. Hopefully, it won’t be the last. But you never know. So, this is the opportunity to invite you and also to tell your friends. That is my project now. I think it will be a practical way to help people and at the same time form part of my practice, to donate to monasteries and to other projects we have.

Beatrix also knows Ayurvedic therapy. We hope to start an Ayurvedic school because medicine is important education for people. Ayurveda is one of the early medical systems dating back thousands of years. The other thing for me is to create an education system to not only teach you how to work, but also teach you how to live, basically. That’s my future idea. And maybe do a movie. I want to do a good movie, that is why I want to take my time. It will be about quantum mechanics, quantum physics, and emptiness coming together, through graphics. I don’t know. That’s an idea for the future. Thank you, Thank you. I am leaving Malaysia very soon but I feel very strong connection with the center. I want to thank everyone. 

The Big Love Fund supports Ösel‘s educational endeavors. You can follow news and updates about Ösel on the Ösel Hita news feed.

Mandala brings you news of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from nearly 160 FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like what you read on Mandala, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

Tushita Retreat Centre, Arbúcies, Montseny, Spain. Photo courtesy of Tushita Retreat Center.

In the recently published online edition for Mandala July-December 2015, you can read about the achievements of Tushita Retreat Center:

“In 2015, Tushita Retreat Center in Spain celebrates 20 years in the FPMT. Tushita is located at the heart of the Montseny Natural Park, a region in southern Europe characterized by its extraordinary biodiversity, distinctive Mediterranean beauty and rich cultural history. However, for those of us who know the center, Tushita is simply Tushita, a place that many of us consider enchanted, where we find the peace and beauty that nourishes the hope and joy we need for a good life. For those who are part of Tushita, whether as students, teachers, volunteers, employees, managers or simply as friends, the center is, in many ways, a home, a place to return after the difficult day-to-day struggles, a refuge where we can rediscover those truths that inspire and move us.

“Due to its proximity to the cities of Barcelona and Girona and its accessibility, and because it’s located in a relatively isolated place suitable for contemplative practices, the center offers to many students a privileged space to deepen their meditations and practices. …”

Read the entire article “Spain’s Tushita Retreat Center Celebrates 20 Years” on FPMT.org/mandala.

Mandala brings you news of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from nearly 160 FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like what you read on Mandala, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

Langri Tangpa Centre opened their doors to local community members of all faiths, Brisbane, Australia, March 2015. Photo courtesy of Langri Tangpa Centre.

“Langri Tangpa Centre in Brisbane Australia rejoices in the success of its very first open day on March 29, 2015,” said committee member Carolyn Mason. “The motivation was to offer loving-kindness, blessings and benefit to all by opening our doors and inviting in the broad community to meet us and know our work with the Buddhadharma. About 130 people attended, with at least 80 being first-timers to the center. Following the example of His Holiness, special invitations were sent to all major spiritual traditions. Representatives of the Islamic community attended, and apologies were received from the Christian community as it was Palm Sunday.

“The thought and planning going into the program of activities paid off with people’s interest and attention being held. On the agenda were tours of the center both morning and afternoon, each ending with at least 30 enthusiastic people crammed in the small gompa for a short meditation. The morning talk on Buddhism by Chenrezig Institute resident Geshe Tsultrim connected well with the over 80 people through his intellect, kindness and humor.

Nuns offered to bless attendees with a Buddha relic and holy text, Brisbane, Australia, March 2015. Photo courtesy of Langri Tangpa Centre.

“The Sangha provided blessings with the center’s Buddha relic and holy books. Other blessings came from bathing the Buddha and writing out at least four lines from the precious Sutra of Golden Light in gold pen. A community dedications book was popular and the dedications read out at the Tara puja held after the open day. A children’s program was popular and appreciated by parents.

“The two local government counselors for the area attended, and one offered to put an article in their community newsletter about the center’s program – which they have already done. The center’s volunteers worked autonomously and in a very friendly, relaxed manner, providing a wonderful model of how we work together harmoniously. The chai, cheesecake and conversation in the lounge was very animated, and everyone happily had their handout package. The day ended on a musical note with a jazz-fusion concert.

“The center has experienced the benefit of the open day with new attendees at our weekly classes and meditations and has decided to make it an annual event.”

Mandala brings you news of Lama Zopa Rinpoche and of activities, teachings and events from nearly 160 FPMT centers, projects and services around the globe. If you like what you read on Mandala, consider becoming a Friend of FPMT, which supports our work.

Ven. Margaret McAndrew at Kopan Monastery, Nepal, 1976. Photo courtesy of Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive.

We are sadden to share the news that Ven. Margaret McAndrew has passed away of cancer In Australia. Affectionately know as Ani Marg, she was a long-time student of Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, first arriving at Kopan in Nepal in 1974. 

Ven. Margaret ordained in 1976. After spending time in Nepal and India, she returned to Australia in 1978, where she lived at both Tara Institute and Chenrezig Institute for several years (and worked as a cook in both places). She spent six months in the Dorje Phagmo Nunnery in France before finally settling at Chenrezig Institute in the late ‘80s. She was one of the founding members of Chenrezig Nuns’ Community (CNC), which was formally established in 1990. Since then she has been resident there apart from stints as a visiting teacher in Taiwan as well as in Adelaide, Gosford and Sydney in Australia. For several years, she served as the CNC gekyö (disciplinarian). She was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in 2012. 

You can read more about her early experiences with the Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche in “I Realized That My Life Couldn’t Be the Same Again”: 
https://fpmt.org/mandala/archives/mandala-for-2013/october/ani-margaret-mcandrew/.

While reading obituaries we can also reflect on our own death and impermanence prompting us to live our lives in the most meaningful way. More advice from Lama Zopa Ripoche 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/).