Dechhen Ling has had a very busy spring and summer. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat in June under the guidance of Bhaka Tulku Rinpoche was a very rich experience for all of us. Overlooking Dorena Lake and the cascades, there treat concluded with a fire puja offering vast clouds of fragrant smoke. Lama Sonam's sister, Sonam, attended the fire as cymbals and horns echoed in the hills.
September brought the Eugene Celebration, attended by over 100,000 people. "Snow Mountain Cafe" served handmade momos for three days. At this, our major fund-raiser of the year, we did fifty percent better than last year. Many thanks to all those who helped so generously, including Khenpo Norbu Rinpoche! In addition, this year we had a public education booth as part of the International Faire with dharma literature and a photo exhibit of Tibet. Glenn Sandvoss performed lama dancing, laudably accompanied by Lama Sonam, Pema and Karma who played traditional Tibetan instruments.
The Amitabha Buddhafield Training was offered for the first time in the West in October by Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Rinpoche also taught in Eugene and Corvallis. All of us enjoyed a slide show of Tibet by Fred Mallerywith Khenpo Zangpo's enriching commentary. Khenpo Zangpo reminded us of our good fortune to have such a qualified resident lama as Lama Sonam and a center blessed by great lamas here in the West.
Each year over Thanksgiving weekend we reconsecrate the RedTara statue built by Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche. This year we were honored to have with us Jetsun Kushog, who is considered an emanation of Vajrayogini.
If you are sincere in your desire to learn more about dharma practice and interested in becoming a member of Dechhen Ling, please contact Lama Sonam.
In addition, Dechhen Ling now has openings available for several dharma practitioners who would like to live and study under the guidance of Lama Sonam. One apartment is available for long-term residence. If you are interested in a short-term retreat, river-view rooms are available. Please contact Chandra at 503-942-9544 for scheduling.
__________
As winter approaches the construction projects at Rigdzin Ling continue to progress. Fire protection for all of Moonland is now complete, with a 30,000-gallon water tank upon the ridge and hydrants have sent financial contributions; your gifts of labor and encouragement are greatly appreciated.
Over fifty sangha members joined Rinpoche and Lama Sonam forthe annual Red Tsog ceremony at Rigdzin Ling, which was conducted this year in the context of Takhyung Barwa practice. There are now many sangha members who are doing accumulations of Takhyung Barwa mantra and dedicating the merit to Rinpoche's long life. As we would like to keep abreast of the numbers of mantra recited, please send the amount of accumulations you do, as each bum (100,000 recitations) is completed, to Mary Racine, P.O. Box 90, Oakville, CA 94562.
__________
When Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche last visited Los Angeles in July, the sangha turned out in force to receive the Takhyung Barwa empowerment. Since then, at a recent event dedicated to Rinpoche's long life, sangha members assembled from as far as a hundred miles away. The group practice was very strong and we plan to dedicate the next few monthly events to Rinpoche' s longlife.
When Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche visited Los Angeles in the third week of October he gave a wonderful set of teachings on ngondro and tsog, with a level of detail rarely provided. He made a strong impression on some Los Angeles residents, who are now attending weekly practice sessions, adding to the growing sangha here.
__________
On August 2, Rinpoche taught in St. Helena at a send-off party on the eve of his departure for Tibet. While overseas Rinpoche and his entourage used proceeds from the evening to acquire shrine articles for Ati Ling, including 110 butter lamps and a set of cymbals. They also returned with a copy of the Kangyur, the hundred volume compendium of teachings held in the Tibetan schools of Buddhism to be the authoritative words of the Buddha, which is now being printed.
In Berkeley, the local sangha meets for puja every Sunday morning. Everyone in the Bay Area sangha has been delighted with the increasing turnout and the opportunity to establish a continuity of practice. New students are especially welcome to join us. Puja is held at the home of Tom Cosgrove and Susie Wallace. Anyone wanting directions or more information can call Kevin or Angie at (510) 601-5255.
In Berkeley on October 29, Lama Sonam gave a teaching on mudras. In addition, Robert Racine has begun regular evening teachings in Berkeley on a variety of subjects, and is continuing his regular teaching and practice commitments in the Napa Valley. On November 1, Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche taught in Berkeley on understanding visualization in Vajrayana practice. As part of his tour of Chagdud Gonpa centers, he then taught for a weekend on Guru Rinpoche in the Napa Valley.
Ati Ling's building project in the next few months include installing doors, windows, wiring and plumbing, as well as ducting for the heating system. These activities are partly the result of a successful fund-raising letter sent to the local sangha. This was one of the first projects of the fundraising committee, to which more people are committing their time in an effort to streamline and solidify funding sources for the construction work.
We're all looking forward to Rinpoche's annual summer retreat in the Napa Valley. Currently Rinpoche plans to devote one week to ngondro, and one week to the long Tara practice.
__________
We felt very fortunate to host Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche in Spokane for several days in mid-October. The Vajrasattva and Manjushri empowerments he gave were essential for newer members to continue their practice, and it was of great benefit to later receive clear and detailed teachings on the Heart Sutra. Particularly enjoyable was the question and answer sessions where we had the opportunity to experience personally Khenpo's extensive knowledge of the English language. It will be a pleasure to welcome him and his brother, Rinchen, back to America.
Every other Friday we now have a meditation program at the Peaceful Valley Community Center. Attendance has been encouraging enough to make us think of starting similar programs in the more outlying areas such as Deer Park, Coeur D'Alene and possibly the Moscow/Pullman area If you would like to have a meditation program in your neighborhood, please give us a call, especially if you are willing to help facilitate such an event.
An ongoing practice schedule is maintained at Padma Ling on a daily basis, morning and evening, with special meditation sessions planned for Sunday nights. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, the Red Tara puja is practiced in English for those who have not received the empowerment.
Tibetan language classes continue to be taught regularly on Wednesday at 6:30 P.M., and on Thursday evenings a dharma talk is presented either by Lama Inge or Yontan. Please call the center for further information.
__________
We had a very enriching weekend seminar with Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Friday night, October 18, the teachings ranged through the general topics on development stage practice, detailing the three samadhis and the various levels of approaching and fulfilling deity meditation. On Saturday Rinpoche bestowed the Manjushri empowerment and continued the teachings for the rest of the day. Sunday was dedicated to Takhyung Barwa. Rinpoche spent the morning teaching the proper way to meditate, after which we practiced the sadhana and completed the feast offering. We were particularly impressed by the profundity and extensiveness that Rinpoche imparted to his discourses and the ease and kindness of his presence. That evening we took a wonderful ferry boat ride immersed in the brilliant colors of the sunset reflecting off Mt. Rainer and the shimmering Seattle skyline. Our regular Red Tara practice, the short English version, continues weekly on Mondays at 8:00 P.M. followed by Takhyung Barwa. We are trying again to do Red Tara and Guru Rinpoche tsogs on the appropriate days of the moon. Previously, it was difficult to gather on those days and so, with Rinpoche's blessings, we scheduled them twice a month on Fridays. It was much easier for working people to plan around this schedule and at least our core sangha members could participate regularly. Now we have decided to try to bring our tsog practice again into harmony with the moon.
We have managed to schedule all-day practices each month throughout this year. They provide an opportunity for us to gather together and take part in intensive, guided sessions, usually in the foundation practices.
__________
Rinpoche visited Brazil twice in 1991 and his teachings were received with such enthusiasm and sincere dharma interest that he founded a new center, Odsal Ling. There are students now conducting weekly Tara and ngondro group practices, and twice monthly weekend-long ngondro intensives in Sao Paulo, Odsal Ling's home base. There are also weekly practice groups in Campinas and Belo Horizonte. A number of Rinpoche's new Brazilian students will be attending this year's Drub Chen and some are also making plans to come to Rigdzin Ling to help with the completion of Tara House. They all look forward to meeting and practicing with their North American dharma brothers and sisters.
Dechhen Ling has had a very busy spring and summer. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat in June under the guidance of Bhaka Tulku Rinpoche was a very rich experience for all of us. Overlooking Dorena Lake and the cascades, there treat concluded with a fire puja offering vast clouds of fragrant smoke. Lama Sonam's sister, Sonam, attended the fire as cymbals and horns echoed in the hills.
September brought the Eugene Celebration, attended by over 100,000 people. "Snow Mountain Cafe" served handmade momos for three days. At this, our major fund-raiser of the year, we did fifty percent better than last year. Many thanks to all those who helped so generously, including Khenpo Norbu Rinpoche! In addition, this year we had a public education booth as part of the International Faire with dharma literature and a photo exhibit of Tibet. Glenn Sandvoss performed lama dancing, laudably accompanied by Lama Sonam, Pema and Karma who played traditional Tibetan instruments.
The Amitabha Buddhafield Training was offered for the first time in the West in October by Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Rinpoche also taught in Eugene and Corvallis. All of us enjoyed a slide show of Tibet by Fred Mallerywith Khenpo Zangpo's enriching commentary. Khenpo Zangpo reminded us of our good fortune to have such a qualified resident lama as Lama Sonam and a center blessed by great lamas here in the West.
Each year over Thanksgiving weekend we reconsecrate the RedTara statue built by Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche. This year we were honored to have with us Jetsun Kushog, who is considered an emanation of Vajrayogini.
If you are sincere in your desire to learn more about dharma practice and interested in becoming a member of Dechhen Ling, please contact Lama Sonam.
In addition, Dechhen Ling now has openings available for several dharma practitioners who would like to live and study under the guidance of Lama Sonam. One apartment is available for long-term residence. If you are interested in a short-term retreat, river-view rooms are available. Please contact Chandra at 503-942-9544 for scheduling.
__________
As winter approaches the construction projects at Rigdzin Ling continue to progress. Fire protection for all of Moonland is now complete, with a 30,000-gallon water tank upon the ridge and hydrants have sent financial contributions; your gifts of labor and encouragement are greatly appreciated.
Over fifty sangha members joined Rinpoche and Lama Sonam forthe annual Red Tsog ceremony at Rigdzin Ling, which was conducted this year in the context of Takhyung Barwa practice. There are now many sangha members who are doing accumulations of Takhyung Barwa mantra and dedicating the merit to Rinpoche's long life. As we would like to keep abreast of the numbers of mantra recited, please send the amount of accumulations you do, as each bum (100,000 recitations) is completed, to Mary Racine, P.O. Box 90, Oakville, CA 94562.
__________
When Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche last visited Los Angeles in July, the sangha turned out in force to receive the Takhyung Barwa empowerment. Since then, at a recent event dedicated to Rinpoche's long life, sangha members assembled from as far as a hundred miles away. The group practice was very strong and we plan to dedicate the next few monthly events to Rinpoche' s longlife.
When Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche visited Los Angeles in the third week of October he gave a wonderful set of teachings on ngondro and tsog, with a level of detail rarely provided. He made a strong impression on some Los Angeles residents, who are now attending weekly practice sessions, adding to the growing sangha here.
__________
On August 2, Rinpoche taught in St. Helena at a send-off party on the eve of his departure for Tibet. While overseas Rinpoche and his entourage used proceeds from the evening to acquire shrine articles for Ati Ling, including 110 butter lamps and a set of cymbals. They also returned with a copy of the Kangyur, the hundred volume compendium of teachings held in the Tibetan schools of Buddhism to be the authoritative words of the Buddha, which is now being printed.
In Berkeley, the local sangha meets for puja every Sunday morning. Everyone in the Bay Area sangha has been delighted with the increasing turnout and the opportunity to establish a continuity of practice. New students are especially welcome to join us. Puja is held at the home of Tom Cosgrove and Susie Wallace. Anyone wanting directions or more information can call Kevin or Angie at (510) 601-5255.
In Berkeley on October 29, Lama Sonam gave a teaching on mudras. In addition, Robert Racine has begun regular evening teachings in Berkeley on a variety of subjects, and is continuing his regular teaching and practice commitments in the Napa Valley. On November 1, Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche taught in Berkeley on understanding visualization in Vajrayana practice. As part of his tour of Chagdud Gonpa centers, he then taught for a weekend on Guru Rinpoche in the Napa Valley.
Ati Ling's building project in the next few months include installing doors, windows, wiring and plumbing, as well as ducting for the heating system. These activities are partly the result of a successful fund-raising letter sent to the local sangha. This was one of the first projects of the fundraising committee, to which more people are committing their time in an effort to streamline and solidify funding sources for the construction work.
We're all looking forward to Rinpoche's annual summer retreat in the Napa Valley. Currently Rinpoche plans to devote one week to ngondro, and one week to the long Tara practice.
__________
We felt very fortunate to host Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche in Spokane for several days in mid-October. The Vajrasattva and Manjushri empowerments he gave were essential for newer members to continue their practice, and it was of great benefit to later receive clear and detailed teachings on the Heart Sutra. Particularly enjoyable was the question and answer sessions where we had the opportunity to experience personally Khenpo's extensive knowledge of the English language. It will be a pleasure to welcome him and his brother, Rinchen, back to America.
Every other Friday we now have a meditation program at the Peaceful Valley Community Center. Attendance has been encouraging enough to make us think of starting similar programs in the more outlying areas such as Deer Park, Coeur D'Alene and possibly the Moscow/Pullman area If you would like to have a meditation program in your neighborhood, please give us a call, especially if you are willing to help facilitate such an event.
An ongoing practice schedule is maintained at Padma Ling on a daily basis, morning and evening, with special meditation sessions planned for Sunday nights. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, the Red Tara puja is practiced in English for those who have not received the empowerment.
Tibetan language classes continue to be taught regularly on Wednesday at 6:30 P.M., and on Thursday evenings a dharma talk is presented either by Lama Inge or Yontan. Please call the center for further information.
__________
We had a very enriching weekend seminar with Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Friday night, October 18, the teachings ranged through the general topics on development stage practice, detailing the three samadhis and the various levels of approaching and fulfilling deity meditation. On Saturday Rinpoche bestowed the Manjushri empowerment and continued the teachings for the rest of the day. Sunday was dedicated to Takhyung Barwa. Rinpoche spent the morning teaching the proper way to meditate, after which we practiced the sadhana and completed the feast offering. We were particularly impressed by the profundity and extensiveness that Rinpoche imparted to his discourses and the ease and kindness of his presence. That evening we took a wonderful ferry boat ride immersed in the brilliant colors of the sunset reflecting off Mt. Rainer and the shimmering Seattle skyline. Our regular Red Tara practice, the short English version, continues weekly on Mondays at 8:00 P.M. followed by Takhyung Barwa. We are trying again to do Red Tara and Guru Rinpoche tsogs on the appropriate days of the moon. Previously, it was difficult to gather on those days and so, with Rinpoche's blessings, we scheduled them twice a month on Fridays. It was much easier for working people to plan around this schedule and at least our core sangha members could participate regularly. Now we have decided to try to bring our tsog practice again into harmony with the moon.
We have managed to schedule all-day practices each month throughout this year. They provide an opportunity for us to gather together and take part in intensive, guided sessions, usually in the foundation practices.
__________
Rinpoche visited Brazil twice in 1991 and his teachings were received with such enthusiasm and sincere dharma interest that he founded a new center, Odsal Ling. There are students now conducting weekly Tara and ngondro group practices, and twice monthly weekend-long ngondro intensives in Sao Paulo, Odsal Ling's home base. There are also weekly practice groups in Campinas and Belo Horizonte. A number of Rinpoche's new Brazilian students will be attending this year's Drub Chen and some are also making plans to come to Rigdzin Ling to help with the completion of Tara House. They all look forward to meeting and practicing with their North American dharma brothers and sisters.
Dechhen Ling has had a very busy spring and summer. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat in June under the guidance of Bhaka Tulku Rinpoche was a very rich experience for all of us. Overlooking Dorena Lake and the cascades, there treat concluded with a fire puja offering vast clouds of fragrant smoke. Lama Sonam's sister, Sonam, attended the fire as cymbals and horns echoed in the hills.
September brought the Eugene Celebration, attended by over 100,000 people. "Snow Mountain Cafe" served handmade momos for three days. At this, our major fund-raiser of the year, we did fifty percent better than last year. Many thanks to all those who helped so generously, including Khenpo Norbu Rinpoche! In addition, this year we had a public education booth as part of the International Faire with dharma literature and a photo exhibit of Tibet. Glenn Sandvoss performed lama dancing, laudably accompanied by Lama Sonam, Pema and Karma who played traditional Tibetan instruments.
The Amitabha Buddhafield Training was offered for the first time in the West in October by Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Rinpoche also taught in Eugene and Corvallis. All of us enjoyed a slide show of Tibet by Fred Mallerywith Khenpo Zangpo's enriching commentary. Khenpo Zangpo reminded us of our good fortune to have such a qualified resident lama as Lama Sonam and a center blessed by great lamas here in the West.
Each year over Thanksgiving weekend we reconsecrate the RedTara statue built by Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche. This year we were honored to have with us Jetsun Kushog, who is considered an emanation of Vajrayogini.
If you are sincere in your desire to learn more about dharma practice and interested in becoming a member of Dechhen Ling, please contact Lama Sonam.
In addition, Dechhen Ling now has openings available for several dharma practitioners who would like to live and study under the guidance of Lama Sonam. One apartment is available for long-term residence. If you are interested in a short-term retreat, river-view rooms are available. Please contact Chandra at 503-942-9544 for scheduling.
__________
As winter approaches the construction projects at Rigdzin Ling continue to progress. Fire protection for all of Moonland is now complete, with a 30,000-gallon water tank upon the ridge and hydrants have sent financial contributions; your gifts of labor and encouragement are greatly appreciated.
Over fifty sangha members joined Rinpoche and Lama Sonam forthe annual Red Tsog ceremony at Rigdzin Ling, which was conducted this year in the context of Takhyung Barwa practice. There are now many sangha members who are doing accumulations of Takhyung Barwa mantra and dedicating the merit to Rinpoche's long life. As we would like to keep abreast of the numbers of mantra recited, please send the amount of accumulations you do, as each bum (100,000 recitations) is completed, to Mary Racine, P.O. Box 90, Oakville, CA 94562.
__________
When Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche last visited Los Angeles in July, the sangha turned out in force to receive the Takhyung Barwa empowerment. Since then, at a recent event dedicated to Rinpoche's long life, sangha members assembled from as far as a hundred miles away. The group practice was very strong and we plan to dedicate the next few monthly events to Rinpoche' s longlife.
When Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche visited Los Angeles in the third week of October he gave a wonderful set of teachings on ngondro and tsog, with a level of detail rarely provided. He made a strong impression on some Los Angeles residents, who are now attending weekly practice sessions, adding to the growing sangha here.
__________
On August 2, Rinpoche taught in St. Helena at a send-off party on the eve of his departure for Tibet. While overseas Rinpoche and his entourage used proceeds from the evening to acquire shrine articles for Ati Ling, including 110 butter lamps and a set of cymbals. They also returned with a copy of the Kangyur, the hundred volume compendium of teachings held in the Tibetan schools of Buddhism to be the authoritative words of the Buddha, which is now being printed.
In Berkeley, the local sangha meets for puja every Sunday morning. Everyone in the Bay Area sangha has been delighted with the increasing turnout and the opportunity to establish a continuity of practice. New students are especially welcome to join us. Puja is held at the home of Tom Cosgrove and Susie Wallace. Anyone wanting directions or more information can call Kevin or Angie at (510) 601-5255.
In Berkeley on October 29, Lama Sonam gave a teaching on mudras. In addition, Robert Racine has begun regular evening teachings in Berkeley on a variety of subjects, and is continuing his regular teaching and practice commitments in the Napa Valley. On November 1, Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche taught in Berkeley on understanding visualization in Vajrayana practice. As part of his tour of Chagdud Gonpa centers, he then taught for a weekend on Guru Rinpoche in the Napa Valley.
Ati Ling's building project in the next few months include installing doors, windows, wiring and plumbing, as well as ducting for the heating system. These activities are partly the result of a successful fund-raising letter sent to the local sangha. This was one of the first projects of the fundraising committee, to which more people are committing their time in an effort to streamline and solidify funding sources for the construction work.
We're all looking forward to Rinpoche's annual summer retreat in the Napa Valley. Currently Rinpoche plans to devote one week to ngondro, and one week to the long Tara practice.
__________
We felt very fortunate to host Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche in Spokane for several days in mid-October. The Vajrasattva and Manjushri empowerments he gave were essential for newer members to continue their practice, and it was of great benefit to later receive clear and detailed teachings on the Heart Sutra. Particularly enjoyable was the question and answer sessions where we had the opportunity to experience personally Khenpo's extensive knowledge of the English language. It will be a pleasure to welcome him and his brother, Rinchen, back to America.
Every other Friday we now have a meditation program at the Peaceful Valley Community Center. Attendance has been encouraging enough to make us think of starting similar programs in the more outlying areas such as Deer Park, Coeur D'Alene and possibly the Moscow/Pullman area If you would like to have a meditation program in your neighborhood, please give us a call, especially if you are willing to help facilitate such an event.
An ongoing practice schedule is maintained at Padma Ling on a daily basis, morning and evening, with special meditation sessions planned for Sunday nights. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, the Red Tara puja is practiced in English for those who have not received the empowerment.
Tibetan language classes continue to be taught regularly on Wednesday at 6:30 P.M., and on Thursday evenings a dharma talk is presented either by Lama Inge or Yontan. Please call the center for further information.
__________
We had a very enriching weekend seminar with Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Friday night, October 18, the teachings ranged through the general topics on development stage practice, detailing the three samadhis and the various levels of approaching and fulfilling deity meditation. On Saturday Rinpoche bestowed the Manjushri empowerment and continued the teachings for the rest of the day. Sunday was dedicated to Takhyung Barwa. Rinpoche spent the morning teaching the proper way to meditate, after which we practiced the sadhana and completed the feast offering. We were particularly impressed by the profundity and extensiveness that Rinpoche imparted to his discourses and the ease and kindness of his presence. That evening we took a wonderful ferry boat ride immersed in the brilliant colors of the sunset reflecting off Mt. Rainer and the shimmering Seattle skyline. Our regular Red Tara practice, the short English version, continues weekly on Mondays at 8:00 P.M. followed by Takhyung Barwa. We are trying again to do Red Tara and Guru Rinpoche tsogs on the appropriate days of the moon. Previously, it was difficult to gather on those days and so, with Rinpoche's blessings, we scheduled them twice a month on Fridays. It was much easier for working people to plan around this schedule and at least our core sangha members could participate regularly. Now we have decided to try to bring our tsog practice again into harmony with the moon.
We have managed to schedule all-day practices each month throughout this year. They provide an opportunity for us to gather together and take part in intensive, guided sessions, usually in the foundation practices.
__________
Rinpoche visited Brazil twice in 1991 and his teachings were received with such enthusiasm and sincere dharma interest that he founded a new center, Odsal Ling. There are students now conducting weekly Tara and ngondro group practices, and twice monthly weekend-long ngondro intensives in Sao Paulo, Odsal Ling's home base. There are also weekly practice groups in Campinas and Belo Horizonte. A number of Rinpoche's new Brazilian students will be attending this year's Drub Chen and some are also making plans to come to Rigdzin Ling to help with the completion of Tara House. They all look forward to meeting and practicing with their North American dharma brothers and sisters.
Dechhen Ling has had a very busy spring and summer. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat in June under the guidance of Bhaka Tulku Rinpoche was a very rich experience for all of us. Overlooking Dorena Lake and the cascades, there treat concluded with a fire puja offering vast clouds of fragrant smoke. Lama Sonam's sister, Sonam, attended the fire as cymbals and horns echoed in the hills.
September brought the Eugene Celebration, attended by over 100,000 people. "Snow Mountain Cafe" served handmade momos for three days. At this, our major fund-raiser of the year, we did fifty percent better than last year. Many thanks to all those who helped so generously, including Khenpo Norbu Rinpoche! In addition, this year we had a public education booth as part of the International Faire with dharma literature and a photo exhibit of Tibet. Glenn Sandvoss performed lama dancing, laudably accompanied by Lama Sonam, Pema and Karma who played traditional Tibetan instruments.
The Amitabha Buddhafield Training was offered for the first time in the West in October by Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Rinpoche also taught in Eugene and Corvallis. All of us enjoyed a slide show of Tibet by Fred Mallerywith Khenpo Zangpo's enriching commentary. Khenpo Zangpo reminded us of our good fortune to have such a qualified resident lama as Lama Sonam and a center blessed by great lamas here in the West.
Each year over Thanksgiving weekend we reconsecrate the RedTara statue built by Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche. This year we were honored to have with us Jetsun Kushog, who is considered an emanation of Vajrayogini.
If you are sincere in your desire to learn more about dharma practice and interested in becoming a member of Dechhen Ling, please contact Lama Sonam.
In addition, Dechhen Ling now has openings available for several dharma practitioners who would like to live and study under the guidance of Lama Sonam. One apartment is available for long-term residence. If you are interested in a short-term retreat, river-view rooms are available. Please contact Chandra at 503-942-9544 for scheduling.
__________
As winter approaches the construction projects at Rigdzin Ling continue to progress. Fire protection for all of Moonland is now complete, with a 30,000-gallon water tank upon the ridge and hydrants have sent financial contributions; your gifts of labor and encouragement are greatly appreciated.
Over fifty sangha members joined Rinpoche and Lama Sonam forthe annual Red Tsog ceremony at Rigdzin Ling, which was conducted this year in the context of Takhyung Barwa practice. There are now many sangha members who are doing accumulations of Takhyung Barwa mantra and dedicating the merit to Rinpoche's long life. As we would like to keep abreast of the numbers of mantra recited, please send the amount of accumulations you do, as each bum (100,000 recitations) is completed, to Mary Racine, P.O. Box 90, Oakville, CA 94562.
__________
When Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche last visited Los Angeles in July, the sangha turned out in force to receive the Takhyung Barwa empowerment. Since then, at a recent event dedicated to Rinpoche's long life, sangha members assembled from as far as a hundred miles away. The group practice was very strong and we plan to dedicate the next few monthly events to Rinpoche' s longlife.
When Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche visited Los Angeles in the third week of October he gave a wonderful set of teachings on ngondro and tsog, with a level of detail rarely provided. He made a strong impression on some Los Angeles residents, who are now attending weekly practice sessions, adding to the growing sangha here.
__________
On August 2, Rinpoche taught in St. Helena at a send-off party on the eve of his departure for Tibet. While overseas Rinpoche and his entourage used proceeds from the evening to acquire shrine articles for Ati Ling, including 110 butter lamps and a set of cymbals. They also returned with a copy of the Kangyur, the hundred volume compendium of teachings held in the Tibetan schools of Buddhism to be the authoritative words of the Buddha, which is now being printed.
In Berkeley, the local sangha meets for puja every Sunday morning. Everyone in the Bay Area sangha has been delighted with the increasing turnout and the opportunity to establish a continuity of practice. New students are especially welcome to join us. Puja is held at the home of Tom Cosgrove and Susie Wallace. Anyone wanting directions or more information can call Kevin or Angie at (510) 601-5255.
In Berkeley on October 29, Lama Sonam gave a teaching on mudras. In addition, Robert Racine has begun regular evening teachings in Berkeley on a variety of subjects, and is continuing his regular teaching and practice commitments in the Napa Valley. On November 1, Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche taught in Berkeley on understanding visualization in Vajrayana practice. As part of his tour of Chagdud Gonpa centers, he then taught for a weekend on Guru Rinpoche in the Napa Valley.
Ati Ling's building project in the next few months include installing doors, windows, wiring and plumbing, as well as ducting for the heating system. These activities are partly the result of a successful fund-raising letter sent to the local sangha. This was one of the first projects of the fundraising committee, to which more people are committing their time in an effort to streamline and solidify funding sources for the construction work.
We're all looking forward to Rinpoche's annual summer retreat in the Napa Valley. Currently Rinpoche plans to devote one week to ngondro, and one week to the long Tara practice.
__________
We felt very fortunate to host Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche in Spokane for several days in mid-October. The Vajrasattva and Manjushri empowerments he gave were essential for newer members to continue their practice, and it was of great benefit to later receive clear and detailed teachings on the Heart Sutra. Particularly enjoyable was the question and answer sessions where we had the opportunity to experience personally Khenpo's extensive knowledge of the English language. It will be a pleasure to welcome him and his brother, Rinchen, back to America.
Every other Friday we now have a meditation program at the Peaceful Valley Community Center. Attendance has been encouraging enough to make us think of starting similar programs in the more outlying areas such as Deer Park, Coeur D'Alene and possibly the Moscow/Pullman area If you would like to have a meditation program in your neighborhood, please give us a call, especially if you are willing to help facilitate such an event.
An ongoing practice schedule is maintained at Padma Ling on a daily basis, morning and evening, with special meditation sessions planned for Sunday nights. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, the Red Tara puja is practiced in English for those who have not received the empowerment.
Tibetan language classes continue to be taught regularly on Wednesday at 6:30 P.M., and on Thursday evenings a dharma talk is presented either by Lama Inge or Yontan. Please call the center for further information.
__________
We had a very enriching weekend seminar with Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Friday night, October 18, the teachings ranged through the general topics on development stage practice, detailing the three samadhis and the various levels of approaching and fulfilling deity meditation. On Saturday Rinpoche bestowed the Manjushri empowerment and continued the teachings for the rest of the day. Sunday was dedicated to Takhyung Barwa. Rinpoche spent the morning teaching the proper way to meditate, after which we practiced the sadhana and completed the feast offering. We were particularly impressed by the profundity and extensiveness that Rinpoche imparted to his discourses and the ease and kindness of his presence. That evening we took a wonderful ferry boat ride immersed in the brilliant colors of the sunset reflecting off Mt. Rainer and the shimmering Seattle skyline. Our regular Red Tara practice, the short English version, continues weekly on Mondays at 8:00 P.M. followed by Takhyung Barwa. We are trying again to do Red Tara and Guru Rinpoche tsogs on the appropriate days of the moon. Previously, it was difficult to gather on those days and so, with Rinpoche's blessings, we scheduled them twice a month on Fridays. It was much easier for working people to plan around this schedule and at least our core sangha members could participate regularly. Now we have decided to try to bring our tsog practice again into harmony with the moon.
We have managed to schedule all-day practices each month throughout this year. They provide an opportunity for us to gather together and take part in intensive, guided sessions, usually in the foundation practices.
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Rinpoche visited Brazil twice in 1991 and his teachings were received with such enthusiasm and sincere dharma interest that he founded a new center, Odsal Ling. There are students now conducting weekly Tara and ngondro group practices, and twice monthly weekend-long ngondro intensives in Sao Paulo, Odsal Ling's home base. There are also weekly practice groups in Campinas and Belo Horizonte. A number of Rinpoche's new Brazilian students will be attending this year's Drub Chen and some are also making plans to come to Rigdzin Ling to help with the completion of Tara House. They all look forward to meeting and practicing with their North American dharma brothers and sisters.
Dechhen Ling has had a very busy spring and summer. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat in June under the guidance of Bhaka Tulku Rinpoche was a very rich experience for all of us. Overlooking Dorena Lake and the cascades, there treat concluded with a fire puja offering vast clouds of fragrant smoke. Lama Sonam's sister, Sonam, attended the fire as cymbals and horns echoed in the hills.
September brought the Eugene Celebration, attended by over 100,000 people. "Snow Mountain Cafe" served handmade momos for three days. At this, our major fund-raiser of the year, we did fifty percent better than last year. Many thanks to all those who helped so generously, including Khenpo Norbu Rinpoche! In addition, this year we had a public education booth as part of the International Faire with dharma literature and a photo exhibit of Tibet. Glenn Sandvoss performed lama dancing, laudably accompanied by Lama Sonam, Pema and Karma who played traditional Tibetan instruments.
The Amitabha Buddhafield Training was offered for the first time in the West in October by Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Rinpoche also taught in Eugene and Corvallis. All of us enjoyed a slide show of Tibet by Fred Mallerywith Khenpo Zangpo's enriching commentary. Khenpo Zangpo reminded us of our good fortune to have such a qualified resident lama as Lama Sonam and a center blessed by great lamas here in the West.
Each year over Thanksgiving weekend we reconsecrate the RedTara statue built by Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche. This year we were honored to have with us Jetsun Kushog, who is considered an emanation of Vajrayogini.
If you are sincere in your desire to learn more about dharma practice and interested in becoming a member of Dechhen Ling, please contact Lama Sonam.
In addition, Dechhen Ling now has openings available for several dharma practitioners who would like to live and study under the guidance of Lama Sonam. One apartment is available for long-term residence. If you are interested in a short-term retreat, river-view rooms are available. Please contact Chandra at 503-942-9544 for scheduling.
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As winter approaches the construction projects at Rigdzin Ling continue to progress. Fire protection for all of Moonland is now complete, with a 30,000-gallon water tank upon the ridge and hydrants have sent financial contributions; your gifts of labor and encouragement are greatly appreciated.
Over fifty sangha members joined Rinpoche and Lama Sonam forthe annual Red Tsog ceremony at Rigdzin Ling, which was conducted this year in the context of Takhyung Barwa practice. There are now many sangha members who are doing accumulations of Takhyung Barwa mantra and dedicating the merit to Rinpoche's long life. As we would like to keep abreast of the numbers of mantra recited, please send the amount of accumulations you do, as each bum (100,000 recitations) is completed, to Mary Racine, P.O. Box 90, Oakville, CA 94562.
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When Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche last visited Los Angeles in July, the sangha turned out in force to receive the Takhyung Barwa empowerment. Since then, at a recent event dedicated to Rinpoche's long life, sangha members assembled from as far as a hundred miles away. The group practice was very strong and we plan to dedicate the next few monthly events to Rinpoche' s longlife.
When Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche visited Los Angeles in the third week of October he gave a wonderful set of teachings on ngondro and tsog, with a level of detail rarely provided. He made a strong impression on some Los Angeles residents, who are now attending weekly practice sessions, adding to the growing sangha here.
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On August 2, Rinpoche taught in St. Helena at a send-off party on the eve of his departure for Tibet. While overseas Rinpoche and his entourage used proceeds from the evening to acquire shrine articles for Ati Ling, including 110 butter lamps and a set of cymbals. They also returned with a copy of the Kangyur, the hundred volume compendium of teachings held in the Tibetan schools of Buddhism to be the authoritative words of the Buddha, which is now being printed.
In Berkeley, the local sangha meets for puja every Sunday morning. Everyone in the Bay Area sangha has been delighted with the increasing turnout and the opportunity to establish a continuity of practice. New students are especially welcome to join us. Puja is held at the home of Tom Cosgrove and Susie Wallace. Anyone wanting directions or more information can call Kevin or Angie at (510) 601-5255.
In Berkeley on October 29, Lama Sonam gave a teaching on mudras. In addition, Robert Racine has begun regular evening teachings in Berkeley on a variety of subjects, and is continuing his regular teaching and practice commitments in the Napa Valley. On November 1, Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche taught in Berkeley on understanding visualization in Vajrayana practice. As part of his tour of Chagdud Gonpa centers, he then taught for a weekend on Guru Rinpoche in the Napa Valley.
Ati Ling's building project in the next few months include installing doors, windows, wiring and plumbing, as well as ducting for the heating system. These activities are partly the result of a successful fund-raising letter sent to the local sangha. This was one of the first projects of the fundraising committee, to which more people are committing their time in an effort to streamline and solidify funding sources for the construction work.
We're all looking forward to Rinpoche's annual summer retreat in the Napa Valley. Currently Rinpoche plans to devote one week to ngondro, and one week to the long Tara practice.
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We felt very fortunate to host Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche in Spokane for several days in mid-October. The Vajrasattva and Manjushri empowerments he gave were essential for newer members to continue their practice, and it was of great benefit to later receive clear and detailed teachings on the Heart Sutra. Particularly enjoyable was the question and answer sessions where we had the opportunity to experience personally Khenpo's extensive knowledge of the English language. It will be a pleasure to welcome him and his brother, Rinchen, back to America.
Every other Friday we now have a meditation program at the Peaceful Valley Community Center. Attendance has been encouraging enough to make us think of starting similar programs in the more outlying areas such as Deer Park, Coeur D'Alene and possibly the Moscow/Pullman area If you would like to have a meditation program in your neighborhood, please give us a call, especially if you are willing to help facilitate such an event.
An ongoing practice schedule is maintained at Padma Ling on a daily basis, morning and evening, with special meditation sessions planned for Sunday nights. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, the Red Tara puja is practiced in English for those who have not received the empowerment.
Tibetan language classes continue to be taught regularly on Wednesday at 6:30 P.M., and on Thursday evenings a dharma talk is presented either by Lama Inge or Yontan. Please call the center for further information.
__________
We had a very enriching weekend seminar with Khenpo Zangpo Rinpoche. Friday night, October 18, the teachings ranged through the general topics on development stage practice, detailing the three samadhis and the various levels of approaching and fulfilling deity meditation. On Saturday Rinpoche bestowed the Manjushri empowerment and continued the teachings for the rest of the day. Sunday was dedicated to Takhyung Barwa. Rinpoche spent the morning teaching the proper way to meditate, after which we practiced the sadhana and completed the feast offering. We were particularly impressed by the profundity and extensiveness that Rinpoche imparted to his discourses and the ease and kindness of his presence. That evening we took a wonderful ferry boat ride immersed in the brilliant colors of the sunset reflecting off Mt. Rainer and the shimmering Seattle skyline. Our regular Red Tara practice, the short English version, continues weekly on Mondays at 8:00 P.M. followed by Takhyung Barwa. We are trying again to do Red Tara and Guru Rinpoche tsogs on the appropriate days of the moon. Previously, it was difficult to gather on those days and so, with Rinpoche's blessings, we scheduled them twice a month on Fridays. It was much easier for working people to plan around this schedule and at least our core sangha members could participate regularly. Now we have decided to try to bring our tsog practice again into harmony with the moon.
We have managed to schedule all-day practices each month throughout this year. They provide an opportunity for us to gather together and take part in intensive, guided sessions, usually in the foundation practices.
__________
Rinpoche visited Brazil twice in 1991 and his teachings were received with such enthusiasm and sincere dharma interest that he founded a new center, Odsal Ling. There are students now conducting weekly Tara and ngondro group practices, and twice monthly weekend-long ngondro intensives in Sao Paulo, Odsal Ling's home base. There are also weekly practice groups in Campinas and Belo Horizonte. A number of Rinpoche's new Brazilian students will be attending this year's Drub Chen and some are also making plans to come to Rigdzin Ling to help with the completion of Tara House. They all look forward to meeting and practicing with their North American dharma brothers and sisters.
