Charitable Activities

Aerial view of the new long retreat rooms at IVY.

In January 2025, Institut Vajra Yogini (IVY), France, will host its 39th Annual Vajrayogini Retreat, guided this year by Jhampa Shaneman. This retreat, open to all who have received the Vajrayogini initiation, marks a special moment in fulfilling Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s wishes.

in 2019 Lama Zopa Rinpoche expressed his vision for more people to engage in the three-year Vajrayogini retreat. IVY then brought up their wish to create retreat rooms in which people could do this long retreat, up to three years. Rinpoche immediately pledged US$120,000 to help them complete this project. Due to the kindness of a benefactor, half of this was raised in 2020 and Lama Zopa Rinpoche personally offered the rest of the pledge through the Lama Zopa Rinpoche Bodhichitta Fund the following year.

 These four individual long-term retreat rooms—each equipped with a private bathroom, individually-controlled air conditioning, and space for study and practice—are designed to provide ideal conditions for practitioners undertaking extended three-year Vajrayogini retreats.

View from one of the new long retreat rooms at IVY.

View of a new long retreat room at IVY.

IVY shares, “As we welcome the energy of retreatants this January, we rejoice in the manifestation of Rinpoche’s wishes and the opportunity to dedicate these rooms to practitioners embarking on deep and transformative retreats.

“We celebrate this milestone as a profound moment for the entire FPMT community! We offer heartfelt gratitude to Lama Zopa Rinpoche for his guidance, generosity, and dedication, which continue to inspire and support practitioners at Institut Vajra Yogini and worldwide.”

To inquire about long-term Vajrayogini retreats at IVY, or to register for the January Vajrayogini Retreat, please visit their website. 

With grateful thanks to IVY President Julia Lefebvre for providing details 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.

Large Padmasambhava  (Guru Rinpoche) thangka with Twenty-one Taras. Photo courtesy of Kopan Nunnery.

For the ninth year in a row, a very large thangka of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) was displayed and an auspicious 100,000 tsog offering event (Guru Bumtsog) took place at Khachoe Ghakyil Ling (Kopan Nunnery). This giant holy object is 70 feet (21 meters) high and 87 feet (27 meters) wide. This year, in addition to last year and every year going forward, this event occurred on Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s birthday, December 3. Below we share some of the rich history of this magnificent holy object, and we also share a moving report from Ven. Sarah Thresher on this year’s event.

Initial outline of the large Padmasambha thangka, November 2011.

History and Significance of the Large Padmasambhava Thangka

This holy object project and yearly event was initiated by Lama Zopa Rinpoche in early 2011 in order to follow the Tibetan tradition of displaying and honoring monumental thangkas. In this tradition, large thangkas are laid on mountains, monastery courtyards, or large walls once a year with annual prayers, pujas, and extensive offerings. The main purpose of this project was to contribute to the fulfillment of the wishes of His Holiness the Dalai Lama including the preservation of Tibetan culture. 

The thangka was completed in October 2013 after 2.5 years of completely handmade work in a school gym in south India near Sera Je Monastery, where 10-12 artists worked at once. Ven. Roger Kunsang commented that there were materials all over the gym during the time it was being made, it seemed difficult to understand how it could all come together in the way it finally did.

Geshe Ngwang Sangye, who oversaw the creation of the thangka shares, “This project is a significant cultural and spiritual endeavor. It not only commemorates the teachings of Buddhism but also acts as a focal point for community gatherings and spiritual reflection, benefiting all beings through its intended use in rituals and teachings.”

Lama Zopa Rinpoche checking the progress on the Padmasambhava thangka, December 2012.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama blessing the Guru Rinpoche thangka, Sera Monastery, India, December 29, 2013. Photo copyright Rio Helmi/Jangchup Lamrim Teaching Organizing Committee.

The thangka was raised for the first time at Sera Je Monastery on the outside of the building when His Holiness the Dalai Lama was teaching in December of 2013. After the teaching His Holiness came to the monastery to bless the holy object. After the blessing, Rinpoche had an appointment with His Holiness and discussed various matters related to the thangka. From this meeting, the plan arose that Rinpoche wanted the thangka raised each year at Lawudo with the pujas and extensive offerings done there. However, at that time it was very difficult to find a way to get the thangka to Lawudo as it was too big and too heavy. Due to this Rinpoche decided to have it raised at Kopan Nunnery each year, which began in 2015 and has continued every year.

Since Rinpoche showed the aspect of passing away, it was decided to hold this event annually on Rinpoche’s birthday, December 3, as a special offering to Rinpoche in order to also fulfill his holy wishes.

The Kopan monks and nuns organize and manage this event with mastery and great care. The puja offered, Guru Bumtsog, is essentially the same as what is offered by His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Namgyal Monastery each year. In addition to helping fulfill the holy wishes of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, this project illustrates a deep commitment to preserving and promoting Tibetan Buddhist culture while fostering community engagement through spiritual activities.

With grateful thanks to Geshe Ngawang Sangye for essential information on the history of this most precious object. 

The grounds of Kopan Nunnery during the Guru Bumtsog event on Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s birthday, December 3, 2024. Photo thanks to Kopan Nunnery.

Extraordinary Birthday Celebration for Lama Zopa Rinpoche at Kopan Nunnery

By Ven. Sarah Thresher

The Cham dance of the ging—messengers of Dorje Drollo performed by Kopan monks during the bumtsog event. Photo by Lesley Abhita

We enjoyed a most extraordinary birthday celebration for Rinpoche yesterday at the Kopan Nunnery with the annual Guru Bumtsog.

Like a seamless fusing of the two manifestations of the Lawudo Lama, the extensive Guru Bumtsog offering, based on a Northern treasures text by Rigdzin Godemchen, was led and inspired by the monks from Thame monastery in Thamichowa, Solukhumbu. Thame is Rinpoche’s “home” monastery so to speak—it is the monastery the first Lawudo Lama was connected to as a ngakpa practitioner and also where Rinpoche entered as a young child to be a monk. The Northern lineage, the gyaling, the dance of the gings and Dorje Drollo—all these are elements from Rinpoche’s past and present life. But the puja was energized by the love and devotion of Rinpoche’s hundreds of monks and nuns at the monastery and nunnery he created in Nepal in this life at Kopan along with the many lay people gathered—some from countries far away where our most cherished lama spread the Dharma throughout this world.

The weather was glorious, the huge applique thangka of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) merit field and Twenty-one Taras often seemed to dance in rhythm with the chanting. The offerings were beautiful and extensive. Seating and lunch and all details were immaculately arranged. Truly wonderful! And we were joined by such precious lamas as H.E. Jangtse Choeje Kyabje Gosok Rinpoche, Khandro-la [Khandro Kunga Bhuma], Thame Lama, and Dzigar Khenpo of Tsopema.

H.E. Jangtse Choeje Kyabje Gosok Rinpoche of Sera Mey Monastery presiding over the puja on December 3, 2024. Photo thanks to Kopan Nunnery.

Detail of the large Padmasambhava thangka. Photo courtesy of Tubten Pende.

Some of the crowd gathered for the Guru Bumstog event at Kopan Nunnery, December 3, 2024. Photo thanks to Kopan Nunnery.

And so from the depths of our hearts we pray that His Holiness Dalai Lama may live long and all his holy wishes be fulfilled and we request that a new magnificent and unmistaken manifestation of the Lawudo Lama, our most cherished Lama Zopa Rinpoche, swiftly return to continue his enlightened activities for all beings in a precious human form!

With thanks to Ven. Sarah Thresher for this moving brief report of the December 3, 2024 event, and to Geshe Ngawang Sangye for providing details of the history of this incredibly powerful holy object. 

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.

Liberated goats at Kopan Liberation Sanctuary.

The Animal Liberation Fund supports ongoing animal liberations conducted by Sangha and students, which include extensive prayers and dedications for fulfilling Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s holy wishes, his gurus, sponsors, those who are sick or facing untimely death, and specific requests from the FPMT community. Supporting these liberations fosters long life for the animals, oneself, and those to whom the prayers are dedicated. The benefits are vast, impacting the saved creatures, supporters of the practice, and those dedicated in the prayers. The fund enables weekly liberations and extensive dedications at Buddha Amitabha Pure Land in Washington State, USA. We are delighted to share that the Animal Liberation Fund provided US$11,500 in grants to the Kopan Animal Liberation Sanctuary in Nepal and for the releasing and care of animals in Buddha Amitabha Pure Land in Washington State, USA.

Kopan Animal Liberation Sanctuary, Nepal

Kind local family of caretakers at Kopan Animal Liberation Sanctuary.

The Animal Liberation Sanctuary at Kopan Monastery in Nepal, initiated by Lama Zopa Rinpoche, is a haven of compassion and hope. This sanctuary rescues animals from slaughter, offering them a peaceful life and exposure to Buddha Dharma. Currently, it houses one buffalo, eight cows, two sheep, and fifty goats, all lovingly cared for by a local family of caretakers and dedicated team members.

One of the most heartwarming stories from the sanctuary is that of Bodhichitta, a buffalo blessed by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. Bodhichitta thrives in the sanctuary’s nurturing environment, enjoying daily life surrounded by care and love. The sanctuary also provides the joyful experiences of its cows and goats, each with unique personalities. Some goats are incredibly curious and love to explore, while others prefer lounging in the sun. Their well-cared-for lives are a testament to the sanctuary’s commitment to their well-being.

The animals at the sanctuary receive a diverse diet that includes fresh vegetables, fruits, and specially formulated feed. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and treatments ensure their health and happiness. This comprehensive care underscores the sanctuary’s dedication to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all its residents.

Maintaining such a sanctuary requires significant resources. The estimated yearly expenditure for the sanctuary includes costs for feed, wages, and electricity, totaling US$23,547. In 2024, the Animal Liberation Fund offered a grant of $9,800 toward the annual expenses. This financial support is crucial for the sanctuary to continue its lifesaving work and to expand its reach to more animals in need.

Animal Liberation Practices in the USA

In Buddha Amitabha Pure Land in Washington State, USA, the Sangha members engage in various compassionate practices to benefit animals. They perform charity to ants, bless birds, and, on a monthly basis (excluding winter months), offering blessings upon all beings residing in lakes, praying for their well-being. They liberated about 33,780 animals (mainly insects) over the past year. The Animal Liberation Fund contributed US$1,500 to support this initiative.

Bird feeder with the Namgyalma mantra under the rooftop.

Blessing the lakes with Namgyalma mantra.

One of the local monks regularly fills a bird feeder with water infused with the powerful Padmasambhava mantra. When birds drink or bathe in this water, it creates conditions for them to attain enlightenment in a single lifetime. The monks also add finely powdered mani pills, blessed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, to the water. Additionally, a loudspeaker plays recordings of holy sutras and mantras continuously, purifying the birds’ minds and planting seeds for enlightenment.

Lama Zopa Rinpoche actively blessed lakes and other bodies of water to liberate the animals and fish residing within them. Sangha in Washington continues to carry on these virtuous activities according to Rinpoche’s advice. These blessings aim to alleviate suffering, free animals from the cycle of rebirth, and guide them towards Buddhahood. Methods include extensive prayers, recitation of mantras, placing laminated mantra papers on the water’s surface, and playing recorded mantras near the water. Blessing fish food before offering it also contributes to the well-being of aquatic beings.

Please watch this video of scenes from Buddha Amitabha Pure Land and the blessing of all beings in the lakes with Venerables Tharchin and Tenzin taking a small boat out with mantra flags and mantra board in order to bless all the beings:

Sangha blessing the animals in the Washington house.

The monks also practice charity to ants, following Rinpoche’s detailed instructions. They mix water, tsampa (roasted barley flour), sugar, butter, and crushed mani pills into a fine powder, which they sprinkle onto ants’ nests while reciting mantras, benefiting the ants.

Additionally, the monks built a worm pit to continue their animal liberation practices during winter. When performing these liberations, they offer powerful prayers for the ill, recently deceased, and those who have requested prayers, sharing the generated merit among many beings.

Since 2005, Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s unique approach to liberating animals has led to the liberation and blessing of over a million beings, including crickets, mice, worms, fish, ants, birds, and goats.

Heartfelt gratitude is extended to each and every compassionate donor who has supported the Animal Liberation Fund in the past and will continue to do so in the future. Your generosity is truly remarkable, and immense joy is felt as the positive impact of your contributions is recognized. With great appreciation, all the merits accumulated through animal liberation and blessing are dedicated towards the great enlightenment of all sentient beings. Thank you for your kindness and dedication to this auspicious cause!

Please explore more resources and inspiration for benefiting animals:
fpmt.org/education/prayers-and-practice-materials/benefiting-animals-practices-and-advice

All are welcome to contribute to the Animal Liberation Fund to help ensure that our work sponsoring animal rescue, care, and liberation continues. 

Monks offering puja at Kopan Monastery.

The merit multiplying day of Lhabab Duchen (commemorating Guru Shakyamuni Buddha’s return to Earth from the Realm of the Thirty-Three), occurs on November 22, 2024 this year. On this day, up to ten thousand Sangha will be engaging in powerful prayers and practices for the benefit of all beings and in particular for the swift return of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche and our FPMT family—all the centers, services, and projects and all the members, volunteers, and kind benefactors.

The Sangha will be reciting the entire Prajnaparamita, offering Medicine Buddha pujas, One Thousand Offerings to Namgyalma, and many other practices. During the pujas, with great respect, a monetary offering will be made to all Sangha engaged in the prayers.

Rinpoche explained during the Four Kadampa Deities Retreat, Institut Vajra Yogini, France, 2003: “The Puja Fund was not revealed for quite a number of years, but then somebody thought that maybe it’s a good idea to let other people know, in case somebody wants to put some donation in the fund. So, then they get this chance to collect all this merit, of having made offerings, even if what the person donated is very little, but it covers all this, offering to the same gurus’ disciples, to all the Sangha in the monasteries. … It’s like putting a drop into the ocean then it gets mixed with the rest of ocean, so until the ocean finishes, the drop that you put in the ocean doesn’t finish. … These pujas will go on forever, for as long as these monasteries last. Even if one is in the hell realm, but the pujas are still going on … even when one is born as ant, crawling on the ground or on the trees, these pujas will still be going on in the human world.”

Rinpoche further explained in 2003: “These pujas  happen on the special days, on Buddha days where you collect one hundred million merits. So, if you offer one rupee, you collect the merit of having offered one hundred million rupees. If you offer one cup of tea to the Sangha, you collect the merit of having offered one hundred million cups of tea.”

Regarding the offerings to the stupas and Buddha statue in Bodhgaya, Rinpoche said: “To do all these offerings. It is unimaginable, incredibly fortunate, so fortunate to be able to do that. It’s such unbelievable merit, to offer to these actual manifestations of the Buddhas and these holy objects.”

Monks offering puja at Sera Lachi Monastery.

Rinpoche explains that he set up the pujas in his gurus’ monasteries, “because if you offer to your guru’s disciple, even if it is just a glass of water or one cup of tea, you collect merit far greater than having made offering to all the numberless Buddhas, numberless Dharma, numberless Sangha, numberless statues, numberless stupas, numberless scriptures, all the holy objects. Making offerings to one’s guru’s disciples or the guru’s dog, giving even one biscuit to the guru’s dog, you collect far greater merit than having made offerings to numberless Buddha, Dharma, Sangha, and the statues, stupas, scriptures.

Therefore, these pujas are arranged in Sera, Gaden, Drepung, Gyudmed, Gyuto and Kopan monastery and nunnery, where there are many, many thousands of Sangha and they are all His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s disciples. By remembering the guru, if you offer to each Sangha, you collect far greater merit than having made offerings to all those holy objects.

It is the same at the center. There are so many people there who are also your gurus’ disciples, so if you offer tea (including to lay people), if you offer food at the center, drinks during puja, or any offerings to them at any time, you collect more merit than having made offerings to numberless Buddhas, numberless Dharma, numberless Sangha, numberless statues, stupas, scriptures, all the holy objects. So therefore, there is an unbelievable, incredible opportunity right at the center where one studies Dharma.

You are most welcome to be part of this vast offering to the Sangha, and to be held within their extensive dedications, by contributing any amount.

The prayers, pujas, and offerings sponsored on Lhabab Duchen:

Robes offered to the main Shakyamuni Buddha statue inside the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya, India.

• The monks of Gyudmed Tantric College will be reciting the Prajnaparamita (three versions).
• The monks of Sera Lachi, Ganden Lachi, Drepung Lachi and Gyuto Tantric College will be offering Medicine Buddha puja, One Thousand Offerings to Namgyalma and Namgyalma Long Life puja, Sixty-four Offerings to Kalarupa, and King of Prayers.
• The Sangha of Kopan Monastery and Khachoe Ghakyil Ling Nunnery will be offering Medicine Buddha pujas.
• All ten thousand Sangha will recite the Names of Manjrushri for the swift return of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche.
• Offerings will be made to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and all of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s gurus, such as Jhado Rinpoche, H.E Ling Rinpoche and many others.
• A monetary offering will be made to the ten thousand Sangha, as well as all Sangha residing in the IMI monastic communities around the world.
• New robes will be offered to the Buddha statue in Bodhgaya; and saffron paint, umbrellas, and banners will be offered to Boudhanath and Swayambhunath stupas, with strong prayers.
• Animals will be liberated and there will be the printing of precious sutras such as The Golden Light Sutra, Arya Sanghata Sutra, Vajra Cutter Sutra, Amitayus Long Life Sutra and Sutra of Great Liberation.

Thank you to all who undertake these practices and those who make the offerings possible. You are welcome to join in all these offerings arranged on Lhabab Duchen and on all the future merit multiplying days.

The Puja Fund was established by Lama Zopa Rinpoche to provide resources for continuous pujas dedicated to the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and to the success of all the FPMT centers, projects, services, students, benefactors and those serving the organization in any way. You can learn more about the Puja Fund, or FPMT’s other extensive charitable activity. 

Sagarmatha Secondary School students, May 2024.

Since 2012, the FPMT’s Social Services Fund has been a cornerstone of support for schools in India and Nepal, catering to students from Tibetan, Nepali, Sherpa, and Indian backgrounds. This initiative ensures that these schools can provide quality education at no cost by covering essentials such as food, uniforms, school supplies, and teacher salaries. In 2024 alone, the fund allocated US$213,052 to seven schools, positively impacting nearly 1,500 children. This remarkable effort not only delivers essential modern education but also preserves cultural heritage and Buddhadharma teachings.

Sagarmatha Secondary School | Sambhota Tibetan School CVP Bylakuppe | Ngari Institute | Shree Sangka Dhechholing Gonpa School | Maitreya School | Rolwaling Sangag Choling Monastery School | Gaden Jangtse Monastic College | How to Help

Sagarmatha Secondary School, located in Chailsa, Solukhumbu, Nepal, is dedicated to providing holistic education to its students. The school emphasizes academic excellence, cultural heritage, and personal development through a variety of enriching programs and activities.

In 2023 Sagarmatha School admitted 25 new students, bringing the total to 235. A dental campaign improved students’ oral health, and an English debate competition saw Grade 9 and 10 students tie for first place. The school bid farewell to Director Ven. Thupten Khedup and welcomed new Director Ven. Lhundup Tsundue.

In May and June 2023, the school organized a Nepali elocution competition, with Grade 10 students securing top positions. Republic Day was marked with calligraphy and essay writing competitions. A prayer session was held on the 49th day of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s passing. An English poem recitation competition and a student club election were also conducted.

October and November 2023 saw an inter-house English drama competition. A new martial arts class in karate was introduced. Students participated in the “Thank You Solukhumbu” program and received warm clothes for winter. Students also attended the Guru Bhumtsok offering.

In February and March 2024, Losar was celebrated, and Saraswati Puja was performed for wisdom. They held an open art and craft exhibition as well that showcased students’ creativity.

These activities not only fostered a sense of community and learning but also provided students with opportunities to develop various skills and celebrate their cultural heritage. The school’s commitment to holistic education is evident through these diverse and enriching programs. The Social Services Fund, which has been supporting the school since 2015, and in 2024 we have allocated US$48,000, further aiding the school’s development and initiatives. With thanks also for the kind help of grants from Yeshe Norbu Association and Unione Buddhista Italiana (U.B.I.), enabling us to offer this support.

Sambhota Tibetan School students enjoying their lunch.

Following the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959, thousands of Tibetan refugees fled to India, Nepal, and Bhutan. To address the urgent need for education among refugee children, the Tibetan government in exile, with support from Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, established the Central Tibetan Schools Administration. In 1999, the Sambhota Tibetan Schools Society (STSS) was formed to manage schools previously overseen by the Department of Education, now overseeing 56 schools with a mission to foster wisdom, compassion, and innovation.

Sambhota Tibetan School CVP Bylakuppe, located in the Tibetan Dickey Larsoe Settlement in Karnataka, was taken over by STSS on May 5, 2018. Established in 1971, currently, it runs classes from one to ten, with Tibetan as the medium of instruction at the primary level and English from class six onwards.

The Social Services Fund has been a consistent supporter of the school in Bylakuppe. In 2024, it extended its assistance to US$6,081 to cover the vegetarian lunch program for 125 students, comprising 69 boys and 56 girls, ensuring their nutritional needs are met.

Nestled in the remote, desert-like region of Ladakh, the Ngari Institute plays a crucial role in preserving Tibetan culture, religion, and way of life. Ladakh, known for its stunning high-altitude landscapes, is home to a significant Tibetan community. Over the decades, many Tibetans have sought refuge in Ladakh, especially after the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959. This has led to a rich blend of Tibetan and Ladakhi cultures.

Ngari Institute students.

Founded in 2010 and inaugurated by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in 2016, the Ngari Institute currently supports 62 students and is staffed by a dedicated team of 21 regular and 9 temporary members. The institute aims to eventually educate 200 children, focusing on orphans, children of single parents, those from impoverished backgrounds, and young monks.

Primary school students attend government public schools, while intermediate and secondary students are enrolled in private schools, with all fees covered by the institute. After school, hired teachers help students with their homework, and resident monks teach Tibetan language and meditation practices. The institute provides essential provisions such as room, board, tuition fees, books, clothing allowances, and medical care.

In addition to its educational efforts, the Ngari Institute is constructing a Buddha Relics Temple and retreat rooms. They are also working on extending the Girls’ Hostel and planning to plant 1,000 trees. Their mission is to preserve Tibetan Buddhism of the Nalanda Tradition and Tibetan culture.

The Social Services Fund has been supporting the institute since 2013, sponsoring their annual food budget with a contribution of US$30,556 in 2024.

Shree Sangka Decholing Gonpa School’s students, March 2024.

Shree Sangka Dhechholing Gonpa School is located in Taplejung, Nepal, an area renowned for its proximity to Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world, adding to the natural beauty that surrounds the school. Registered in 2007, Shree Sangka School faced challenges in its early years and was not able to function properly until 2014. It was during this time that Ven. Thubten Jikdol, a senior Kopan Monastery monk, took the initiative to run the school, gradually expanding the grounds in 2016. Over the span of seven years, the school faced various obstacles that are common for schools in the Himalayan regions. These challenges included developing new curriculums, establishing monastic schools for monks and nuns, as well as creating schools for the lay communities. The aim was to incorporate Buddhist teachings, focusing on love, compassion, joy, and equanimity, with the goal of nurturing a caring society and fostering the development of good human beings.

Since 2019, the school has been receiving support from the Social Services Fund. Moreover, the responsibility for the school has now been taken over by Kopan Monastery, further solidifying its commitment to the school’s growth and development. Currently, eleven teachers educate 171 students, including 86 girls and 85 boys, who start at age three. The curriculum, taught in English and Nepali, focuses on modern subjects as well as Buddhist teachings and culture, ensuring a well-rounded education for the students. Classes are offered up to Grade ten.

In 2024, the Social Services Fund offered US$36,042, which covers the entire budget of the school for the year, demonstrating our continued support and dedication to the school’s mission and development.

Students of Maitreya School wearing their new uniforms.

Maitreya School, a project of the Root Institute in Bodhgaya, India, is dedicated to providing quality education while fostering the overall growth and well-being of its 263 students. The school integrates academic excellence with cultural awareness and personal development through a variety of enriching programs and activities.

The Maitreya School Report for 2023 highlights numerous activities and events that underscore the school’s commitment to holistic education and student development. One significant initiative was the Girls Hygiene Awareness program, where eighth-grade girls, along with their teachers and volunteers from Days for Girls, educated local girls about menstrual hygiene and distributed sustainable menstruation kits to over 200 girls. The school celebrated Republic Day and Saraswati Puja on January 26, 2023, with traditional rituals and festivities.

A farewell party for the eighth-grade students was held on March 4, 2023, featuring performances, games, and heartfelt speeches. The school also conducted a successful Parents-Teacher Meeting, fostering communication between parents and teachers. Students participated in a procession to the Mahabodhi Temple for Buddha Jayanti on May 5, 2023, engaging in meditation and chanting.

Other notable activities included a Hindi essay competition, a cyber security workshop, a French song performance, and Children’s Day celebrations. An educational tour to Patna provided practical learning experiences, including a visit to the Patna Zoo.

The Social Services Fund has supported the school since 2013 and was delighted to offer US$29,400 in 2024, and on behalf of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche, who used to annually visit the school and at that time offer new school uniforms, bags and shows, Ven.Roger Kunsang offed an additional US$4800 for this year’s purchase of new uniforms for all students. This ongoing support has been crucial in enhancing the educational experience and overall development of the students at Maitreya School.

Rolwaling Sangag Choling Monastery School’s students, teachers and Kopan monks.

The Rolwaling Sangag Choling Monastery School, located in the Rolwaling Valley of Nepal, is a community-run free school providing both secular and Buddhist education. The school is serving 26 students and supporting senior students in their Ngondro preliminary practice.

Key activities in 2023 included the purchase and transportation of food supplies, collection of timber for firewood, and potato plantation, ensuring the school’s self-sufficiency in essential resources. Students participated in significant religious and cultural activities, such as the Dumji festival and Manyen prayer ceremony, preserving local traditions. Senior monk-students completed their ngondro practices under the guidance of Ngawang Lapsum Rinpoche and undertook a pilgrimage and educational tour to sacred Buddhist sites in India and Nepal, enhancing their spiritual and educational experience.

The academic year, running from March to December, included three main examinations. The school benefited from the contributions of volunteer English teachers, which improved students’ language skills and confidence.

The Social Services Fund has supported the school since 2014 and in 2024, it offered US$20,200 to cover their annual expenses covering salaries, food supplies, uniforms, books, transportation, internet, electricity, emergency medical rescue, and firewood collection wages. The school continues to play a vital role in the community, providing education and preserving cultural heritage.

Gaden Jangtse Monastic College’s students with their new textbooks.

Gaden Jangtse Monastic College, located in South India, is a prominent institution within the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. The college focuses on educating and training monks in Buddhist philosophy, scripture, debate, and meditation, aiming to preserve and promote Tibetan Buddhist teachings and values. The Gaden Jangtse School, part of the college, currently has 570 students and 15 salaried teachers, with an additional 15 volunteer teachers who are senior monks.

The school has had an eventful past months. They announced the annual examination results and distributed new textbooks and notebooks to all students. A significant highlight was the celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 89th birthday in July, which brought together teachers, staff, and students for a joyous occasion. Recognizing the importance of health and hygiene, the school completed a new toilet and bathroom project in July, ensuring better facilities for the students.

Additionally, the school maintained its commitment to staff welfare by ensuring timely payment of teachers’ salaries. The Social Services Fund has been a crucial supporter, offering US$37,973 to cover teachers’ salaries in 2024. With thanks also for the kind help of a grant from Unione Buddhista Italiana (U.B.I.) that enabled us to offer this support.

How to Help

All are welcome to offer toward the Social Services Fund, to support the education of those who are truly vulnerable and in need in India and Nepal. 

The Social Services Fund, established to support Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Vast Visions for the FPMT organization, focuses efforts primarily in India, Nepal, Tibet and Mongolia. Funds help children, the elderly, sick, and very poor.

Progress on the Stupa of Complete Victory (right) being built at Kopan Monastery. Photo by Ven. Tenzin Tsultrim.

As we have previously reported, a Stupa of Complete Victory is being built at Kopan Monastery, Nepal, for the swift return of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche and actualization of all his wishes. Venerable Tenzin Tsultrim was recently at Kopan Monastery and provided these beautiful photos showing the progress. We are very happy to share a short update on recent progress that has been made on the stupa and share these new photos, as well as some of the meanings of stupas, and the benefits of building these holy objects. 

Progression of the Stupa of Complete Victory at Kopan Monastery. Photo by Ven. Tenzin Tsultrim.

The stupa build has reached the section of the precious vase. The vase sits on four round levels which represent the four mindfulnesses. On top of the throne is the circle of the lotus flower, which is the highest realization of the previous set of attainments: the five powers. The dome-like round part symbolizes the vase where the actual Buddha is situated and represents the celestial mansion of enlightened beings.

From Statues and Stupas: Benefits and Practices Related to Statues and Stupas:

“The actual stupa has the entire representation of how Buddha, from the very basis or beginning, trained on the path and finally perfected himself. So, it reveals the entire path traveled and the results of the practices engaged in by Lord Buddha Shakyamuni. If one builds a stupa that has all the qualities that have been described, then in that particular place where the stupa is built, all the beings that live in that area will receive numerous benefits. They will have a peaceful atmosphere, much harmony and happiness, and good livelihood. …”

“The entire stupa represents the ultimate qualities of the Buddha’s mind and is therefore a very precious and holy object. By making prostrations and offerings to it and circumambulations around it, one receives huge virtue. …”

Stupa of Complete Victory progression at Kopan Monastery. Photo by Ven. Tenzin Tsultrim.

“The benefit we get each time we see a statue of Buddha, a picture of Buddha, or a stupa is like the limitless sky. It causes us to achieve all the realizations from guru devotion up to enlightenment and to achieve all the numberless qualities of the Buddha’s holy body, speech, and mind. …”

“Holy objects leave only positive imprints, no negative imprints. When we watch TV or go sightseeing in the city, many of the things we see leave negative imprints on our mind, depending on how we look at them. But the benefit that we get from looking at holy objects is like the limitless sky. Thus, it is very important to have as many holy objects as possible outside the house and inside the house. …”

View of the levels of the Stupa of Complete Victory. Photo by Ven. Tenzin Tsultrim.

“Pabongkha Dechen Nyingpo mentioned in the lam-rim teachings that one should treat holy objects as though they were the actual living Buddha and not as material things. Every time you look at your altar, think that these holy objects are the actual living Buddha, but for the time being the only karma you have is to see Buddha in these forms, as statues or pictures. Later, when you achieve the path of accumulation of merit, you will see them as the actual living Buddha. Your view changes as your mind progresses. That is why it is said that holy objects are manifestations, that Buddha manifests as stupas and so on.”

Padmasambhava explaining the benefits of building stupas to King Trisong Detsen:  “All those who rejoice in the stupa will generate every single quality of a buddha in their mental continuum.”

We still need funds to complete this beautiful stupa, please consider supporting in whatever way you can:  https://fpmt.org/projects/fpmt/lzr-complete-victory-stupa/

Please read more about the holy objects supported through the Holy Objects Fund.

An audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama during Patient Care Trust’s camp for the top 21 doctors and administrators from three major supporting institutions of PCT since 2012 including AIIMS-Delhi, Safdarjung, and NITRD-Delhi, and the PCT Director, September 2023.

In 2024, the FPMT Social Services Fund, driven by a commitment to compassion to others, made a significant impact by allocating over US$501,284 to support various initiatives in India, Nepal and Mongolia. Dedicated to improving the lives of those in need, the fund focuses on vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, the sick, and the extremely poor. By providing grants for essential resources such as hospitals, health clinics, soup kitchens, substance abuse, and medical training and education. The fund supports local Indian, Tibetan, Nepali, and Mongolian communities. Through these efforts, the FPMT Social Services Fund continues its mission to alleviate suffering and foster positive change, enhancing the overall well-being of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Shakyamuni Health Clinic | Maitri Charitable Trust | Lamp of the Path | Patient Care Trust | Tibetan Heart Foundation | Rewa Youth Center | Integrated Indigenous Tribal Children Ministry of India | Karuna Hospital | How to Help

Special day of programs on women’s health issues at Shakyamuni Health Clinic.

Shakyamuni Health Clinic, a vital initiative of Root Institute for Wisdom Culture, has made impressive strides in improving healthcare accessibility in rural Bihar, India, as detailed in its 2023 impact report. Located in Bodhgaya, the clinic expanded its services significantly, seeing 34,095 patients in total —an 8% increase over the previous year. This achievement is particularly remarkable in a region where 88% of the population lives in underserved rural areas.

A key feature of Shakyamuni Health Clinic is its mobile clinic, which visited local villages 8,671 times in the last year. The clinic provides essential services such as medical tests, medication, and follow-ups. In addition, the clinic added dental services in April, providing 256 consultations despite only being open twice a month. The hope is to increase the frequency of dental care in 2024. Physiotherapy also remains a cornerstone of the clinic’s work, with 3,022 sessions conducted this year, helping patients—especially children with cerebral palsy—regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

The health clinic takes a holistic approach to care, offering allopathic, homeopathic, acupuncture, and physiotherapy treatments. A new allopathic nurse recently joined the staff, enhancing the clinic’s ability to provide comprehensive care. Moreover, educational workshops were held for adolescents at the Maitreya Universal Education School, promoting better health awareness among the youth.

Infrastructure improvements, including dental clinic upgrades and repainting the clinic, were made possible through generous donations. In 2024 the Social Services Fund contributed US$29,400, helping sustain the clinic’s operations.

Patient at a deformities camp in Imamganj.

Maitri Charitable Trust is dedicated to providing essential humanitarian services in India, focusing on healthcare, education, and social welfare for underserved communities. The trust’s initiatives encompass leprosy treatment, maternal and child health programs, animal welfare, and education for marginalized groups. Guided by compassion and Buddhist principles, Maitri’s efforts offer hope and significantly improve the quality of life for thousands in need.

The rising cost of living has heavily impacted the communities served by Maitri, leading to increased financial strain and a surge in patient attendance at their clinics. In response, staff salaries were raised to reflect the challenging environment. Despite these economic pressures, their commitment to primary healthcare remains unwavering. However, the treatment of leprosy and tuberculosis (TB) has not yet met the necessary standards for control or elimination. Maitri has intensified efforts to detect and follow up on new cases, addressing these pressing public health concerns.

Key initiatives included identifying and managing 360 new TB cases, collecting 180 sputum samples for analysis, and extending assistance to 101 under-treatment patients through monthly food rations. An Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) program raised awareness about TB across 1,052 villages. In leprosy care, 540 new cases were registered, and the Prevention of Deformities (POD) program was implemented. Awareness efforts reached 1,741 villages through community outreach and educational initiatives.

The FPMT Social Service Fund has offered US$68,600 in annual support to further bolster their initiatives in 2024.

Lamp of the Path (LOP) NGO, under FPMT Mongolia, has been a cornerstone of community service in the Amgalan ger district of Ulaanbaatar for twenty years. Operating since 2003, their soup kitchen serves 40-50 meals daily to the homeless and those struggling with alcoholism. In 2023, it provided 10,052 meals, creating a supportive and caring environment. Monthly health check-ups are conducted in collaboration with local and international medical teams, and the program also includes alcohol abuse counseling and psychological support. LOP distributes warm clothing to families and individuals, especially during the harsh winter months.

The organization grows vegetables in two greenhouses and a large garden, producing 1,301 kilograms (2,868 pounds) of vegetables last year. These are used in the soup kitchen, sold to generate funds, and distributed to needy families. The Meals on Wheels program delivers meals to 21 people in 9 families who are unable to visit the soup kitchen due to age, disability, or illness. Launched in 2023, the Children’s Program offers weekly classes on Buddhadharma, life skills, and cultural heritage to children aged 6-14. The program includes field trips and special events.

Significant upgrades were made to the LOP facilities, including a new water well, a vegetable storage unit, and a garage for the food delivery vehicle. Looking ahead, LOP expanded its services in 2024, including enhancing the Soup Kitchen and Children’s Program, and exploring new partnerships to support the community further. For instance in 2023, they have revitalized links with Alcoholic Anonymous outreach workers and initiated collaborations with organizations like the Mongolian Quilting Center and OneSky Mongolia to provide training and support to single mothers and caregivers.

Support from the Social Services Fund, amounting to US$39,200, has been instrumental in sustaining all these initiatives.

Beneficiaries of the Lamp of the Path Soup Kitchen enjoying their daily lunch.

Patient Care Trust (PCT), an NGO operating primarily in Northern India, is dedicated to providing essential healthcare services to the Tibetan community in exile. The organization focuses on supporting the ordained Sangha, elderly Tibetans, and delivering crucial social services. 

One of PCT’s notable achievements is the organization of free medical camps in collaboration with leading government hospitals such as AIIMS-Delhi, Safdarjung, and NITRD. These camps provide in-person diagnostics, minor surgeries, and preventative care to vulnerable Tibetans, particularly in remote areas like Dharamsala and Bodhgaya. To date, PCT has conducted nine medical camps, reaching hundreds of individuals and offering life-saving care.

In addition to medical camps, PCT addresses critical medical emergencies by referring patients to top hospitals, significantly reducing costs by 80-90% compared to private healthcare. Since 2020, PCT has supported over 8,500 patients, providing services ranging from life-saving surgeries to long-term treatment plans. Additionally, the NGO offers destitute aid to cover medical costs for the most impoverished patients and provides housing support for those undergoing long-term treatments in Delhi hospitals. This comprehensive approach ensures that financial and logistical challenges do not hinder access to proper care.

Looking ahead, PCT’s activities will be further strengthened by the Social Service Fund’s support of US$18,762 in 2024. 

The Tibetan Heart Foundation’s free medical camp.

Tibetan Heart Foundation is a beacon of hope, delivering comprehensive healthcare services to Tibetan settlements across India and significantly improving health outcomes for these communities. Rooted in compassion and altruism, the foundation addresses critical healthcare gaps, especially in rural areas like Bylakuppe, Hunsur, Kollegal, and the Mainpat Tibetan Settlement in Chhattisgarh.

Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to holistic and preventive healthcare, the Tibetan Heart Foundation addresses the needs of approximately 35,000 individuals annually. Its dedication to enhancing the quality of life in Tibetan communities ensures that health and well-being are prioritized for all ages and backgrounds, fostering healthier, more informed societies across these settlements.

A key initiative of the foundation is organizing free medical camps, which provide essential healthcare services and early health check-ups, thereby reducing the financial burden on patients. These camps offer a variety of medical services, including 2D Echos, ECGs, bone mineral density tests, mammography screenings, and pap smear tests. Additionally, the foundation distributes general medicines as prescribed by doctors, ensuring patients receive necessary care without financial strain.

Preventive care and health education are also central to the foundation’s mission. Their initiatives focus on educating communities about heart health and the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), particularly in Southern Indian settlements. By raising awareness and promoting proactive health management, the foundation empowers residents to take charge of their well-being.

The foundation also invests in educational endeavors, such as distributing CPR dummies to schools for training and conducting emergency medical training tours for students. These programs equip community members with critical skills and knowledge to manage health emergencies effectively.

Recent accomplishments of the foundation include successful free medical camps in Bylakuppe and Kollegal. In Bylakuppe, the camps served 150 individuals, primarily the elderly, providing services such as 2D Echos, ECGs, Pap smear tests, and distributing 89 free spectacles. Similarly, the Kollegal camp benefited 109 people, offering ECGs, Pap smear tests, bone mineral density checks, and breast examinations.

In 2024, the foundation received an offering of US$11,082 from the Social Services Fund to support its operations. This contribution is crucial in sustaining and expanding the foundation’s impactful work.

Ngawang Nyima, the Founder of Rewa Youth Center, offers a daily counseling group session.

Rewa Youth Center in Rajpur, Dehradun, India, is a dedicated initiative aimed at supporting Tibetan young men struggling with substance abuse. Established with the mission to provide comprehensive care and rehabilitation, the center has made significant efforts over the past years. Through a combination of innovative programs and community outreach, Rewa is committed to fostering recovery and personal growth among its patients.

In 2023-2024 the center has introduced several new programs, including one-on-one counseling, virtual therapy sessions, and enhanced staff training to better address addiction and mental health issues. Community outreach efforts have expanded as well, incorporating art therapy, yoga, and mindfulness training, which have been well-received by participants. The introduction of online counseling initiatives and a guitar luthier program exemplifies Rewa’s dedication to holistic recovery and skill development. Additionally, the center has expanded its educational offerings to include comprehensive addiction and recovery education, addressing root causes, triggers, and healthy coping mechanisms.

Another center’s notable achievements is the introduction of a food truck initiative, providing employment opportunities for those who have completed their treatment programs. Additionally, the center has organized outdoor activities and weekly sessions on Buddhist teachings to support spiritual growth. Over the past six months, 29 new participants have joined the program, and 19 individuals have graduated. Employment opportunities have been secured for several graduates too.

Overall, Rewa has successfully helped 55 people recover from addiction, achieving a 70% success rate. The center remains committed to providing quality care and ongoing support to ensure lasting recovery for its patients.

Financially, the center has utilized grants from various organizations to cover rent, utility bills, and hire experienced counselors familiar with Tibetan culture. The Social Services Fund offered US$14,240 to support their efforts.

With sincere thanks and gratitude to Italian Buddhist Union for providing grants for the above three initiatives that enabled this essential support.

IITCMI’s shelter is nearly finished, funded in part by a grant from Lama Zopa Rinpoche the Social Services Fund.

Integrated Indigenous Tribal Children Ministry of India (IITCMI) is dedicated to supporting homeless and orphaned children from indigenous and tribal communities. Their mission is to provide a safe, nurturing environment with access to basic necessities, education, and healthcare.

Karma Tashi of IITCMI offering thanks for the contribution from Lama Zopa Rinpoche toward the orphanage.

IITCMI focuses on creating stable living conditions for children who have lost their families or homes. One notable project is the construction of a shelter for these vulnerable children, which began in 2019. This initiative, supported by individual donations and a generous fund from Lama Zopa Rinpoche, aims to offer a secure living environment. Lama Zopa Rinpoche contributed US$50,000 through the Social Services Fund, substantially aiding the project. In 2024, significant progress has been made, with all necessary materials, including doors and windows, purchased and ready for setup. Electrical installation, painting, and fencing work are currently in progress, adding the finishing touches to the facility.

Despite the progress, the project has faced challenges, particularly due to recent riots in the area, which have affected the transportation and delivery of construction materials, causing delays. However, the team remains committed to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring the timely completion of the shelter.

In 2022 Lama Zopa Rinpoche met Dr. Ram Kumar Shrestha, who had just summited Mount Everest to raise funds for a much-needed catheterization laboratory or Cath lab for Nepal. Cath labs are used to treat patients with heart conditions minimally, without resorting to major surgeries or other invasive procedures and are an important part of treating heart conditions.

Catheterization laboratory

A cath lab is a procedural hospital room where minimally invasive tests and procedures are performed to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease. The procedures performed in a cath lab involve tiny, flexible tubes called catheters (which is where the name is derived from). These catheters can be used as an alternative to surgery to access the heart and blood vessels.

Rinpoche was very impressed with Dr. Ram’s efforts and understanding the need for this essential medical equipment in Nepal in 2022 and 2023, Rinpoche personally began fundraising for it and committed to give US$300,000 for the cath lab.

In 2024 we were able to fulfill Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s commitment and offered US$300,000 to The Karuna Hospital in Nepal for the cath lab system. A student of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, who is a medical doctor, has also been facilitating the acquisition of the equipment at a good rate and getting it into Nepal.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the compassionate donors who generously supported the crucial projects aimed at assisting local communities in 2024. Your kindness and contributions have made a remarkable impact and are truly appreciated.

How to Help

All are welcome to offer toward the Social Services Fund, to support essential health care for those who are truly vulnerable and in need. 

The Social Services Fund, established to support Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s Vast Visions for the FPMT organization, focuses efforts primarily in India, Nepal, Tibet and Mongolia. Funds help children, the elderly, sick, and very poor.

“The beautiful approach to Thame is completely washed away and instead there is a canyon of stones and gushing water from what are now three streams flowing through the village.”

“All these houses have suffered damage and some are damaged beyond repair.”

As previously reported, on August 16 of this year, the village of Thame, birthplace of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, was hit with a devastating flood which destroyed homes, community property, and everything owned or cherished by villagers. Remarkably, not a single life was lost, but the loss of everything else was immense. The river that used to flow next to the village now runs directly through it, taking up half the land. The ground is unstable with landslides and cracks. The future of the entire settlement remains completely uncertain. 

Venerable Sarah Thresher recently shared some photos, videos, and her reflections on the situation in Thame. This footage, and her thoughtful insight, really highlight the severity of the situation, and the need for all of our help:

“It was impossible not to feel a deep sadness surveying the damage in Thame as the whole landscape of the village has changed irreparably: potato fields are strewn with sand and boulders, houses and lodges have been swept away or irreparably damaged, and the land is cracking, unstable and subsiding.

“Right now, it’s hard to know what the future holds. But we found a community working together and striving to keep hope alive and rebuild and reopen despite the pain in their hearts—and your support really does make a difference.”

“First view of Thame … it’s still so beautiful despite the destruction. Such a special place.”

Video from the Yak Hotel, Thame Nepal:
https://youtube.com/shorts/_jPUafS4oxI?si=GzXrtG6zX8bYcXuJ

“[Regarding video]: This is the view from the back window of the Yak Hotel where I stayed in June. The dining room and kitchen were swept away along with the original house, new shower and toilet and the whole back garden and connected fields. The guesthouse is now perched over a roaring river and gutted… Behind, houses, the school, a clinic and guesthouse were washed away. It’s not even possible for the locals to say where they were located—the landscape has changed so much.”

Ruins of the Yak Hotel.

“Ruins of the Yak Hotel perched over the new river that has replaced a gentle stream flowing through green fields. To get to the hotel from Rinpoche’s house it is now necessary to climb down the bank of the river, clamber over huge boulders and then walk over a simple makeshift bridge.”

Video of view from Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s birth home and prayer wheel:
https://youtube.com/shorts/MSY4UDj1N8Y?si=oDcGUTURAP0oOBjT

“[Regarding the video]: The view from Rinpoche’s birth house and the prayer wheel. Potato fields are now strewn with sand and boulders and houses washed away.”

Ani Tsultrim praying at Rinpoche’s throne in his birth home, Thame, Nepal.

“Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s birth house which is now a makeshift restaurant and hotel for Rinpoche’s relatives who lost the Yak Hotel. Here is Ani Tsultrim praying to Rinpoche’s throne as the early morning sunlight streams through the window.”

View from Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s birth house.

“View from the prayer wheel, which was sponsored by Lama Zopa Rinpoche and Rinpoche’s sister Anila Ngawang Samten, and Rinpoche’s house.”

Video of the view of Thame from the ridge and Tara Temple:
https://youtube.com/shorts/NWsHg0PwSNk?si=hfz8BWfdn1dufrpk

“[Regarding video]: The view of Thame from the ridge and Tara Temple above. The houses hugging the ridge are okay but the view is deceptive because many of these fields and house are unstable and sinking and cracking—no longer habitable. The future is uncertain. As the camera pans around you see how the village is now cut by three rivers which have formed gullies and the upper part of the village is now fields strewn with boulders and sand.”

Kayla and Yangchen of Thame’s Yak Hotel. “We laugh and smile but there is pain in our hearts.”

“Kayla and Yangchen are trying to rebuild their lives amid all the uncertainty, making a place for trekkers and pilgrims to eat and stay. They lost their Yak Hotel in the flash flood and were lucky to be able to run for their lives and survive. ‘We laugh and smile but there is pain in our hearts,’ Kayla told me.

“No matter how much you hear about it nothing prepares you for the devastation of Thame when you see it.”

With grateful thanks to Ven. Sarah Thresher for these words, photos, and video. 

How to Help

In response to this crisis, the Thame Support Fund has been established to provide essential aid to the residents of Thame and support their future needs. The fund will be administered through Kopan’s Helping Hands, who will work directly with the community to assess and address their needs. Please consider offering support at this most critical time: https://fpmt.org/support/socialservices/thame/

Please watch and read about a recent interview with a Thame family who describe their experience, and the uncertain situation of Thame. 

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. 

One of the many houses devastated by the recent flooding in Thame, Nepal.

On August 16, 2024, the serene Himalayan village of Thame, birthplace of our kind guru Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche, faced an unprecedented calamity. Two Thyanbo glacial lakes burst their banks, unleashing a devastating flood that would forever alter the landscape and lives of its inhabitants. This glacial lake outburst flood struck with fierce intensity at 1:30 p.m., leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The flood’s impact was immediate and severe. many homes crumbled under the torrent’s force, while the village’s elementary school and clinic – pillars of community life – were swept away.

Image of the flooding in Thame.

In the aftermath, the villagers found themselves displaced, their lives upended in mere moments. The disaster buried the settlement under a mountain of debris, leaving no ground for immediate rebuilding.

Yet, amidst this chaos, a miracle unfolded. Remarkably, not a single life was lost. However, while lives were spared, Thame now faces an uncertain future. The river that used to flow peacefully by the village now runs right through it, taking up half the land. The ground is still dangerous, with landslides and cracks appearing. This ongoing instability endangers even those few houses that initially escaped the flood’s wrath, making the future of the entire settlement uncertain.

Thame family at Kopan Monastery, who shared their experience, needs, and concerns following the Thame flood.

Recently Mingma Rita Sherpa and his family came from Thame to make prayers in front of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s kudung (holy body) at Kopan Monastery and we took this opportunity to interview them. Please watch the video of the interview. They explained the immediate needs now and then the longer-term needs, and that they are waiting to understand what will happen and if they can be relocated as well as possible allocated lands. We share below some of the more profound statements from this interview (lightly edited), and we encourage you to watch the full interview to understand the scope of their experience and how we can help.

Describing the experience of the flood: 

“At first, we saw that this flood is not that strong, it’s not so big, we thought we’re safe now, it’s not so much damage in the ‘village, but again, such an unfortunate thing happened, a second flood came, and this flood was much stronger, then the previous ones. … Most of the many houses have been damaged and people were unable to save their belongings, their property and many other things. Because they were so worried, and just trying to save themselves, they ran away. … We never expected these unbelievable things. Then the flood came again and then again, the third time was the strongest, from the top it slowly swept away the village and this was really a tragedy. We could not think, it was just like a dream, we could not believe it.

“People were worried and crying, they are facing so many problems and difficulties. In the location where the Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s stupa is [Thametang Stupa] and the Mani Prayer Wheel [sponsored by Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s sister Anila Ngawang Samten], that side was not affected much by the flood. We believe that it was protected because of this Mani Prayer Wheel, as that area was not affected as much.”

Explaining some of the turmoil, loss, and devastation: 

“All the things have been destroyed within a few minutes, and we were not even able to save our shoes, we just ran away, and many have even left their own shoes and had to run away. … We cannot believe it, or we cannot accept, what to really believe at first. We have been rescued by the local government and we stayed there. Of course, all the people were crying, everyone was crying, and not able to think about what had just happened. Whatever they have owned in their lifetime, everything has gone away, all has been destroyed by floods. … Unbelievable things happened, and of course we cannot imagine this, and we cannot think of this happening, and so we feel so sad, even now just remembering these things.”

Regarding the plans for rebuilding and recovering from this disaster:

“There are four or five lakes. They are not protected. Also now global warming is creating disasters everywhere in the world. … Now the government wants to rebuild Thame, but not at the same places, and they are trying to move to some other areas. Until now they have appointed the area Hungo Tengma which means upper Hungo behind southern Thame, and the government wants to rebuild Thame on the other side. That decision is not really fixed, but they are trying to rebuild Thame, but I don’t know if they will do or not. And also, ourselves we are not going to build at the moment because the route from Namche to Thame is not quiet [stable].

In Thame, half of the people are farmers, they have yaks and naaks [female yaks], and others have many other cattle. If we move to Zarog that’s too far to get cattle and that’s why some people are saying it’s a bad idea, and the best idea is upper Hungo, which is nearby, 15 minutes from Thame. But there is a problem with the drinking water. There’s no drinking water, that’s a problem, but otherwise the landscape is good really.”

A plea to take global warming and the protection of our environment seriously: 

 “In my opinion that we know, everybody in the world knows, that [the issue is] global warming, climate change, it continues to get warmer and warmer. Even in the winter we didn’t get any snow this winter, not only this winter, the last two years we didn’t get any snow in the winter. And in summer there was a lot of rain, and sometimes so hot, sometimes too much rain, and that means we are feeling the climate change. … I want to request everywhere in the world, everybody has to protect the environment. There are many, many factories, much smoke [pollution], and the countries who are strong, they create a lot of pollution. And even in our country we have to protect the environment, we have to plant more trees, and we have to protect cultures, also our culture’s environment. That’s why we also we have to protect our natural culture like Dharma and the language. … I think everybody, we all have to protect the environment.”

Insight into needs at this time:

“So now even material things, these things will not work there because the land is totally unstable, kind of unusable. If we could have [support] or some support with the money, with cash, we think that this is the best support now, and with that money we can have some other place.  At the moment the highest priority is having money, rather than material things, trying to support to rebuild our house, all this is not working. If someone helps with cash, that is most useful for us.”

Extracted and edited for reading from an interview at Kopan Monastery, September 2024. A rough transcript of the full interview is also available. Watch the full interview with Mingma Rita Sherpa and his family:

How to Help

In response to this crisis, the Thame Support Fund has been established to provide essential aid to the residents of Thame and support their future needs. The fund will be administered through Kopan’s Helping Hands, who will work directly with the community to assess and address their needs. Please consider offering support at this most critical time.

We will provide updates on the needs and how the funds are distributed. We are sincerely requesting everyone to hold the Thame families in their hearts, as they have lost everything, including their livelihoods, homes, and land. They need our help: https://fpmt.org/support/socialservices/thame/

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. Lobsang Tsering displays a page of the Prajnaparamita he has been writing out.

In the heart of Kopan Monastery, nestled in the beautiful hills of Nepal, a quiet yet monumental task unfolds each day. Ven. Lobsang Tsering has been entrusted with a project that embodies the very essence of continuous joyous effort and guru devotion: writing the Prajnaparamita Sutra in beautiful calligraphy in pure gold ink on archival quality paper. This project for world peace has a huge significance for the entire FPMT community and should continue for as long as FPMT exists.

Ven. Lobsang Tsering’s journey of writing out the Prajnaparamita Sutra in gold began over two decades ago when Lama Zopa Rinpoche, recognizing his potential and devotion, assigned him this important job. Since then, Ven. Tsering has devoted himself wholeheartedly to this practice with unwavering focus, patience, wisdom and compassion. As of now, he is working on the fifth of twelve volumes, a testament to the magnitude of this task.

In a recent interview, conducted by Yanzhina Bartanova at Kopan Monastery, Ven. Lobsang Tsering shared his life story and the deep sense of responsibility he feels towards this assignment. His humility and dedication shine through as he recounts the moment Lama Zopa Rinpoche entrusted him with this work. His words offer a profound insight into the importance of the Prajnaparamita Sutra and the personal transformation he has experienced over the years. This interview provides a rare glimpse into the heart and mind of a practitioner whose life is devoted to the Buddhadharma.

You can read the full interview below and also watch it on video. 

The Prajnaparamita Sutra contains the highest teachings of the Buddha and is among the most precious texts available in the world today. Due to the power of this text, writing it out is a way to generate tremendous merit, remove obstacles, and create peace in the world. 

Each year, FPMT allocates over US$50,000 for the pure gold and related expenses. This financial commitment highlights the importance of this project within the FPMT community.

While Ven. Tsering’s contribution is unparalleled in its duration and intensity, he is not alone in this virtuous activity. Jane Seidlitz, working from the USA, has also been writing out the Prajnaparamita Sutra in pure gold. Although her involvement has not been for as long or as intense as Ven. Tsering’s, her contribution is equally valued and cherished. Together, their efforts symbolize a huge commitment to preserving the teachings of the Buddha.

Pages of the Prajnaparamita that Ven. Lobsang Tsering has been writing out for over two decades.

This project is a living legacy of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s vision, a vision that continues to inspire and uplift those who come into contact with it. Rinpoche asked that the sutra is continually being written out as it is a powerful holy object. 

Interview with Ven. Lobsang Tsering

Gen la, can you please, introduce yourself?

Ven. Lobsang Tsering writing out the Prajnaparamita from Kopan Monastery.

My name is Lobsang Tsering. Actually, my hometown name is Lobsang Tsering, but my gelong name is Thubten Dawa. I’m from Manang Village. It’s a very remote area here in Nepal.

At age of eight, my parents brought me here at Kopan. I grew up here with many children. It was good. I finished my study in 1990. Then I started to serve monastery, working in the office, as a lama gyupa, making sand mandalas. I also got a chance to do some translation work. Then Rinpoche invited me to the United States, I had an opportunity to go there. Rinpoche advised me to write out Prajnaparamita Sutra.

So then I studied again, Rinpoche was showing me caligraphy and the way how to write, how to set up the motivation and the dedication. I was so fortunate. At the beginning of 2002 I started writing out the first volume. It took me 5 years. The second volume took me 5 years. This is the 5th volume I’m working on right now.

So I’m all all the way, 70% of the fifth volume. I was so fortunate that I got this opportunity and I got to carry it on. Still now, my mind is so blessed. I feel like this. I’ve decided I will do it as long as my body supports me, my eyes support me. As long as the gold is supported. I decided I will carry on. Rinpoche has mentioned to me even after His passing away I have to keep writing. Rinpoche mentioned this on a few occasions.

Can you please explain for those who are very new to Buddhism, what is Prajnaparamita Sutra?

Prajnaparamita Sutra is the the wisdom of perfection. The wisdom of perfection was taught by Buddha in Rajgir. It has many different versions, like short, medium, and long versions. Shortest one is very common, well known, is the Heart Sutra, which consists of 25 stanzas, and then when we talk about the short version of the Prajnaparamita Sutra is 8,000 verses. Rinpoche was doing that one, writing in gold letters. And then the middle one is 20,000 verses, which has 3 volumes.

And then the long one is a 100,000 verses, which has 12 volumes. So that’s what I’m working on here right now. I’m on the 5th volume out of 12 volumes. It’s slowly but steadily is going on.

When we’re talking about the Heart Sutra is mainly we’re talking about the interdependent origination and emptiness, and it’s a very crucial teaching of the Buddha. That’s why it’s so important text of the Buddha. It is very important to write with the gold so to collect merit. So all the projects of Rinpoche and the FPMT will come true. As Buddhists we believe in order to fulfill or to accomplish the wishes, we need to have merits. So that’s the main reason why we are writing out Prajnaparamita Sutra to accumulate merit so all projects can be done without any obstacles. That was the main purpose.

Can you please explain what is merits and why we need to accumulate it for those who don’t know?

Merit is some kind of the positive energy. So the more negative energy around, the atmosphere becomes negative and then everything actually becomes negative. So all we need is positive energy around. So then positive energy in, out, everywhere. So more positive energy around, the wish come true. That’s what I understand. Something like a virtue as we say, it’s virtues actions. Also, positive energy.

Can you please advise people who would like to do the same as you do, to collect merits by writing out Prajnaparamita Sutra? What they can do, how they can start, if they want to do the same as you?

To write Prajnaparamita Sutra – anybody can do it, but what I understand for us, we need to have a wish to do. That’s so important. So if we have an eager to do it or wish to do it. To have a wish, we need to understand the benefit of that. If you understand the benefit of writing Prajnaparamita Sutra, then because of that the wish will come true. You have a wish, and then you make an effort, then you need to be trained, you can train, anything can be trained. So as we say once it’s habituated, there’s nothing that cannot be done. So that’s all, we need to make an effort on that.

So to make an effort, we need to have a wish first. Then we can do anything – writing out Prajnaparamita Sutra, writing or reading, with the gold or with the ink. It doesn’t matter. While you are writing, make sure that you set up a bodhichitta motivation, it’s very important. Or fulfilling the guru’s wishes or for the sake of the Buddhadharma or Buddha’s teaching or for the sake of all mother sentient beings.

These are very important motivation that we need to set up at the beginning. And then once we done that and then whatever you do or whatever skill you have, you offer your time. So we can do it for years, keep carrying it on as your own practice. Once you carry on as your practice, gradually, maybe a year after year, after year, you keep doing that. I believe by doing that, we will create a lot of positive karma as well and same time with a lot of purification. The more we purify our negative karma, the more positive karma will raise. It felt to me like that.

So with less negative karma, more positive karma will be naturally there. With more positive karma there, your willingness will increase. Then you will be doing more and more and more. More purification is happening, more and more you turn towards the Dharma. More and more compassion is coming. More and more positive thoughts are coming.

More and more you feel devoted to your guru. You feel more kindness.

So this all automatically comes. So that’s very important. To make an effort with it. And by the way, we were saying that short term effort will make a short result, but we have to carry on.

So seriously, keep carrying on, and the rest will be okay. Since we are beginners we need to make effort without losing a hope. No matter what obstacles you may encounter or the challenge you may encounter, but thing is – it’s Dharma practice for the sake of all mother sentient beings. It’s for all Buddhadharma. So if you’re thinking this way, if you keep it in your mind, recollecting it in your mind, then the energy will come. And then you can carry on year after year, after year, after year. And then finally, after 10 years, 20 years, you will see the benefit, and then you’ll find the peace of your mind. And once you have peace of mind you will see how important Buddhadharma is.

All these are coming to you. But definitely we need to make it long. We have to plan for long term.

You discussed a lot about benefits of writing, reading, seeing Prajnaparamita. What would be the top three benefits if we narrow them down?

Lama Zopa Rinpoche working on writing out the Prajnaparamita Sutra with Ven. Tsering at his side, Aptos, California, United States, June 2017. Photo by Ven. Lobsang Sherab.

First, I think is the imprint. The imprint is so important. Sometimes what I do is I play His Holiness Dalai Lama’s teachings. Because I cannot play a song here [laughing], I like playing lamas’ teachings.

So this all comes together. That gives me a lot of knowledge as well. I believe when I first began my writing I can say that I didn’t understand Dharma. I was a monk. I was happy in the monastery. So I carried on like that because of kindness of Rinpoche. But when I look back now, I didn’t understand Dharma at that time.

But luckily, while I’m writing it, I listen to His Holiness’ teachings or Rinpoche’s teachings. Then in between, there are some questions coming up and also negative questions are coming. I’m still a normal human being, so they’re all these nonsense questions are coming. But luckily, because of writing out Prajnaparamita Sutra I got all the answers, which really keeps me strong! So this is how I’m able to carry on still now, after almost 23 years. My mind is still going on maybe because of this. I will say this is the benefit of writing out Prajnaparamita Sutra and listening to teachings. So that’s the first benefit.

The second benefit, definitely, because of doing this, I feel myself very peaceful. Very satisfied with myself. Because of that I can sleep peacefully. Because of that, I can feel my body. So that’s a benefit too. Because as long as we keep our mind in peace our health will be good. Because of that, we could sleep. You can happily live with anybody around. So that’s the second benefit.

The third benefit, of course, it will guide us to the enlightenment. Rinpoche told me one time, “Tsering, because you’re writing out Prajnaparamita, this will guide you to the enlightenment!”. This is so important to me. Wow! There are so many benefits of doing this!

Can you please describe briefly your day at work?

Here at Kopan, I get up around 6 o’clock in the morning, and then I make my water bowl offering. I set up my motivation in the morning. And then do a half part of my prayers, and then go for breakfast around 7:30am. Come back and finish all my prayers.

I finish by 9 or 9:30am. Then I come here and get prepared for my day for the writing out Prajnaparamita Sutra. I prepare everything, like mixing gold with glue, paper. Make a cup of tea. Then again, I set up the motivation here. I’m writing till 11:30am, and then I have a lunch break till 1 o’clock in the afternoon, and then I’m writing from 1 o’clock till 4 o’clock. That is my period of writing Prajnaparamita Sutra. Then after 4pm, I dedicate. That’s so important practice of Dharma. When we’re setting the motivation and at the end we do dedication. If we don’t dedicate at the end, what happens is because we have a lot of delusions inside, such as anger or attachment or something like that. We don’t know when it will arise. So at the moment of anger, they say, that countless, many years of merits will be destroyed. That’s why dedication is so important. I set up dedication, that’s the end of my day. Then I make a cup of tea in my room, get rest. Then I go for a walk. I need to walk because I need to move my body, doing exercise so I will be able to carry on. We need a good health. Without a good health, it’s not possible. That’s very important for the Prajnaparamita project, for the practice of Dharma, whatever activities you are doing the health is so important. So that’s why I go for a walk maybe an hour or so. While I’m walking, I recite the mantras that I need to recite. Then around 6:30pm is dinner, then at the end, again, I have evening prayers to do. Maybe half an hour. And then rest. That is my 5 days a week, 2 days I take days off.

Another question is, you are doing this virtuous activity for more than 20 years. What encouraged you to start this activity?

At that time it was Rinpoche’s power. Rinpoche invited me to America. Rinpoche trusted me. My mind would feel bad, if I didn’t obey Rinpoche. That mind kept me there. Secondly, it’s because Rinpoche is so pure! More we serve him, we want to serve even more.

Maybe Rinpoche’s power. A lot of my friends are saying that I’m the only one who got the renunciation after going to America. Mostly people go to America and they finish their monks life. They want to live a normal life. I think most are like that. Just a few came back still as monks. I am the one of them. So that’s why I feel very blessed.

I would definitely say because of Rinpoche’s power. One reason is I’m in the mandala of Rinpoche. So I need to do well. I’m also a Kopan boy. I need to respect Kopan as well. So this kind of mind helps me to carrying on. Maybe at the beginning I didn’t understand, but because of this kind of mind it helped me. After I’ve been writing for 6-7 years I started to understand. Started to understand maybe 6-7 years after. At the beginning for many of us, we don’t pay attention because we’re young. We just go around or something like that. But once we start to understand, all answers come. Like I said I listened to His Holiness’ teachings and Rinpoche’s teachings. Then I found all the answers to my questions. Then my mind became stronger. I feel very joyous! Now I feel like if I don’t do, if I don’t write one day, I feel like I’m wasting my day.

So important to make sure your day is meaningful. As we say, we have a precious human rebirth, it is so important. If we miss this time, then next life, we don’t know where we will be reborn. As we understand all these things, it’s so important to make sure, while you have this precious human rebirth, you use it in a meaningful way. By thinking that, I’m using it as maximum as possible. So here I am.

You talked about meaningful life, happy life, not wasting your life. So what would be your one advice for people to live happy, meaningful life?

I would say don’t engage in any kind of “happy” negativities. Don’t do that. Live the life positive as much as you can. I think in that way you will definitely find a happy life. Carry on year after year, year after year. You’ll find deep satisfaction, because of your positive actions, positive deeds that you have done in your entire life. If you do some negative action somehow, somewhere you have a regret in your mind. That leading you to the problems, unhappiness, depression. Make sure your day, your month, years are meaningful in the positive way. That’s so important. Then to live in the positive, living with the bodhicitta is the most important. That’s the essence of the Dharma as we say. You live the best way with compassion, with bodhicitta. If not, then at least, restrain from the negative actions as much as you can. Even the small negative action, we have to restrain from it. You have to avoid it.

If you do that, maybe at the end of your life, you will be able to find a deep satisfaction. Then you will definitely be happy. That’s what I believe.

We offer grateful thanks to Yanzhina Bartanova for conducting this extremely moving interview. 

 As we reflect on Ven. Tsering’s journey and the ongoing efforts of individuals like Jane Seidlitz, we may be inspired to support this incredible work. Whether through financial contributions or rejoicing in this achievement, we can all be part of this extraordinary endeavor. In doing so, we create an incredible amount of merit and help ensure that the Prajnaparamita Sutra continues to shine brightly, guiding countless beings toward the path of enlightenment.

You can learn more about the Prajnaparamita Project as well as the other Charitable Projects of FPMT.

Flood of August 16 tearing through a village on the way to Namche Bazaar, Nepal. Photo courtesy of Khabarhub.

Co-director of Lawudo Retreat Centre, Frances Howland reports on the flood that struck the village of Thame, Nepal, birthplace of Lama Zopa Rinpoche:

In a tragic event, the village of Thame in the Solu Khumbu district of Nepal, was devastated by a catastrophic flood on August 16, 2024. Thame holds a special place in our hearts as the birthplace of Kyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche. It is also the home to many Kopan monks and nuns including Charok Lama, and a number of legendary mountain climbers.

The flood was triggered by a sudden glacial lake outburst. This sent a torrent of water hurtling down the mountain slopes, filled with mud and debris, the water surged down with a deafening roar, giving villagers just enough time to flee to safer, higher ground.

Miraculously there was no loss of human life, had it happened at night human casualties would likely have been unavoidable. Thame, at 12,450 feet (3,800 meters) usually has a population of 300 Sherpa people who depend mostly on trekking and mountaineering for their livelihood. Due to the off-season for tourism, there were few people in the village.

Some of the devastation from the flood in Thame village, August 16, 2024. Photo courtesy of Khabarhub.

Villagers left behind their houses, hotels, animals, and everything they owned. About half of the village has been destroyed or severely damaged, including the school and health clinic, plus vital infrastructure. The dam and hydroelectric plant that provide electricity to the whole valley, including Lawudo Retreat Centre and the main town of Namche Bazaar, were severely damaged. Several bridges were washed away and the walking trail to Thame was swept away.

Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s birth house, and the prayer wheel next to it, were spared. Water came up to the prayer wheel house but did not enter inside. The prayer wheel, inaugurated in 2022, contains 100 trillion mantras on microfilm. Rinpoche lived his early years in Thame village with his family, until he was recognized at a young age as the reincarnation of the Lawudo Lama, Kunzang Yeshe, who was also from Thame, but had spent his later life meditating in the Lawudo cave.

The ancient, historic Thame Monastery located high up on the ridge was unaffected by the flood.

Thame was also seriously damaged during the 2015 earthquake. Almost all of the homes in the area were damaged or destroyed and several people died. The Thame Stupa was then rebuilt under Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s financial assistance and direction, completed in 2020. It is located over the ridge in Thame Teng, this area was not affected by the flood.

The Lawudo Retreat Centre, a couple of hours walk from Thame, the home of Rinpoche’s previous incarnation, is home to Rinpoche’s sister, Anila Ngawang Samten. A number of FPMT sangha are currently in retreat there.  Lawudo has no electricity due to the flood, but it was not affected by the floodwaters as it lies further down the valley high up on a ridge. 

Immediately following the disaster, the Nepal Police and Army were dispatched to help and rescued some trapped animals. In the following days the local people salvaged any personal belongings they could find in the mud and debris that was left behind. However, questions remain about the safety of rebuilding in this area. There are several glacial lakes above Thame. These lakes forming, becoming larger, and then bursting has become increasingly common in the Himalayas due to rising global temperatures.

A video clip of this devastating flood can be viewed:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VwJb34aOx7Y

FPMT International Office, through the Social Services Fund, is working with Kopan Helping Hands to offer support directly on the ground in Thame, where it is most needed now and in the future as the situation and urgent needs become clearer. Please consider offering support at this most critical time: 
https://fpmt.org/support/socialservices/thame/

Please look for more information regarding this coming soon. 

With grateful thanks to Frances Howland for providing the FPMT community with this moving 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. 

Atisha Centre in Australia received two 2024 Merit Box grants to refurbish their golden Buddha statue and complete their Kadampa stupa project. Photo courtesy of Atisha Centre.

The International Merit Box Project was created in order to cultivate generosity as part of a daily practice and in turn help provide resources for local projects that are fulfilling the FPMT mission. The program began in 2001 with students and communities keeping a small Merit Box on their altars or elsewhere to make and collect offerings in. Although new physical Merit Boxes have not been distributed in recent years, offerings are still being collected from FPMT students, centers, projects and services worldwide.

The collected offerings are disbursed annually as grants supporting a wide range of Dharma activity. To date, 370 grants have been awarded over the years, with US$1,258,580 in total being disbursed! This generosity has provided needed aid for holy objects, book publishing, retreat sponsorship, social service projects, translation work, Dharma libraries, education initiatives and trainings, and many Dharma activities!

The gompa and community house for Pamtingpa Center, Washington, USA. The center received a 2024 Merit Box grant to build a septic system for the building.

Recently, US$19,000 in grant awards for the 2024 giving cycle were disbursed through the Merit Box Fund for sixteen projects of FPMT communities in Australia, France, Italy, Mongolia, Romania, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.

FPMT Mongolia received a 2024 Merit Box grant for their Mahayana Children’s Program. Photo courtesy of FPMT Mongolia.

Projects that received funding include a translation of Lama Zopa Rinpoche’s new book The Power of Meditation into Italian, FPMT Mongolia’s Mahayana Children’s Program, and the Planetary Crisis Summit hosted by Jamyang Buddhist Centre in London earlier this year. Grants have also provided aid for a number of repairs and renovations to center facilities, making the entrances to Tse Chen Ling’s center in the USA accessible for people with disabilities, and to help build a septic system for the rural buildings of Pamtingpa Center, USA. Other grants have been awarded supporting eight holy objects – stupas, statues, prayer wheels and thangkas.

The full list of grant recipients can be found here.  A huge thanks to all of the generous donors to the Merit Box Fund who have made these grants possible!

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.