The annual Tara Tsog at Thanksgiving brought great joy and benefit to those who attended. We all wish to thank the Ven. Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche for his visit and for showering us with his un-repayable kindness.
Momos are always popular and our booth was well received at the Asian Celebration in Eugene in February. In August we will be busy preparing for our momo booth at the Eugene Celebration in September. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat will be held at Dechhen Ling on the weekend of June 12-13. This is a very beneficial practice involving fasting and prayer. After the retreat, we are scheduling a large work party. We need help in the excavation and ground preparation necessary to construct a new cement foundation for the River Road house.
Donations are essential for the realization of this and future projects. We are holding a raffle, with tickets at $10 each or six for $50. The first prize is a valuable Vajrasattva Yab Yum statue. Second prize is a Tibetan carpet, and third prize is a silk woven t'hanga. Many smaller treasures are also being offered. The drawing will be June 6 at Rigdzin Ling.
We are also raising money for the foundation by soliciting donations that will be matched up to $5,000 by a tax-deductible matching funds program. Those who give donations of $500 or more will be recognized by having their names (or one of their loved ones) engraved on a brass plaque and permanently mounted at Dechhen Ling. In considering your donation, please remember the historical value and role of Dechhen Ling as a dharma center.
In August we are offering a Small Golden Step Workshop for Children. This will combine outdoor activities such as camping, swimming, and picnic meals, in an age appropriate structure with an introduction to the dharma. Art, music, lama dancing, Jataka tales and language studies will be offered. This is a wonderful chance for the whole family to relax and have fun.
Practice is ongoing at Dechhen Ling, with daily puja and tsog days being observed. Sunday practice sessions are followed by teachings from Lama Sonam. Of special note is the Tibetan language program, Saturdays from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Participants are asked to make a one year commitment, and the program is free to all members. Lama Sonam is also available for private consultation and can be reached at (503)942-7270. For more information or to receive mailings concerning local activities, please contact Dechhen Ling. Donations can be made to Oregon Chagdud Gonpa and marked "raffle" or''building fund." Thank you!
__________
The long awaited visit of Chagdud Rinpoche was an enriching experience for the sangha attending the Akshobhya empowerment and practice sessions. Rinpoche' s presence propelled a powerful group practice which certainly removed obstacles for those individuals present and in general. The sangha was also thankful to Rinpoche for an informal question and answer session where people had an opportunity to receive the kind of clarification possible only in the presence of the lama.
Plans are underway for the first of many regular visits by Lama Gyatso in May. The sangha has pulled together and is committed to making these first visits a well-attended success. We are all very grateful to Rinpoche for bringing Lama Gyatso to Los Angeles.
__________
The Water Bird Year was ushered in with jovial festivity at a party at Ati Ling on February 27. Traditional Tibetan foods and an atmosphere of warmth and good cheer amongst everyone present, including the sangha children, was a delightful and spirited way to set the tone for the year ahead.
A full schedule of teachings will be offered by Jigme Rinpoche in the Bay Area this spring. After a four-day Nyung-Nay Retreat at Ati Ling in early March, Jigme Rinpoche will give teachings in Berkeley, Marin County, San Francisco, Santa Rosa and St. Helena throughout the spring. Then, in June, Chagdud Rinpoche will conduct a T'hroma retreat in the Napa Valley.
On May 15 and 16, Chagdud Rinpoche will bestow the following Chagdud Gonpa daily practice empowerments: Wrathful Guru Rinpoche, Essence of Siddhi, T'hang-tong Gyalpo, Lion-Faced Dakini, Standing Red Tara, T'hroma, Red Vajrasattva and Manjushri. On Sunday, April 4, Jigme Rinpoche will give the following empowerments: Yeshe Tsogyal, Red Tara, Takhyung Barwa and Vajrakilaya. These empowerments will make is possible to participate fully in the daily Vajrayana practices conducted at any Chagdud Gonpa center.
__________
Amrita continues to meet every Monday night to practice together the short Red Tara practice, Ta Khyung Barwa, and the short fire puja. Then we have refreshments and a time for discussion where Richard can answer questions. Also, twice monthly we gather for Guru Rinpoche or Red Tara practice with tsog offering. We will soon be scheduling all day preliminary practice sessions,
Of particular note: Amrita has joined with several other Seattle Dharma centers to invite and host a visit by H.H. the Dalai Lama. He will be in Seattle to give a public talk on June 14th and the empowerment of Chenrezig on the 15th. Anyone who has the intention to come for these events should contact us here for details as soon as possible since admission to the empowerment will be somewhat limited. We can also arrange accommodation for Chagdud Gonpa sangha for those few days.
__________
The resident sangha members here wish to express gratitude to Jigme Tromge Rinpoche and Lama Sonam Tsering and families for coming to Rigdzin Ling and enriching the New Year activities. Their presence always brings immeasurable blessing.
The Losar puja was held in the newly finished shrine room at Tara House, which was thereby christened for future practice. Nearing completion is Rinpoche's retreat space atop Tara House, to be finished in time for the drubchens this summer.
We are currently fundraising for the completion of the first floor of Tara House before May 23, the beginning of the Essence of Siddhi drubchen. If you know of any source of used supplies for a handicapped-accessible bathroom, window-fitting air conditioners or radiators and thermostats, or if you can donate skills (especially in tile or trim work) or funds, please call Mike McLaughlin at Rigdzin Ling.
The coming of spring to Junction City brings with it plans to irrigate and plant seedlings on the sparse landscape of Moonland. It is Rinpoche' s aspiration that the land be restored to its original beauty, as one can only imagine it was before the devastation of the dredging and strip mining of the gold rush days. As always, Rinpoche's inspiring vision encourages us to transform our ordinary perceptions of appearances into the view of a green and beautiful pureland. Our sincere gratitude to all of you who continue to enable Rinpoche's aspirations to manifest.
__________
An extended visit by Rinpoche to Brazil will take place from July to September of this year. Rinpoche will be visiting at least six different cities, and perhaps other South American countries as well. Local sangha members are busy putting together Rinpoche's first home in Brazil which will include two rooms and a shrineroom. Rinpoche has been offered donations of land in two different cities to establish retreat centers. Ngondro and Red Tara practice groups continue to meet weekly in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte, and will now benefit from the renewed enthusiasm of the six Brazilians who, for the first time, attended Dzogchen Retreat this past winter.
The dharma is radiating not only to schools, colleges and churches in the immediate Spokane area, but to outlying areas. Lama Yontan has established regular teachings and practice sessions in Sandpoint, Idaho on beautiful Lake Ponderay. Both Lama Inge and Lama Yontan are teaching in Moscow, Idaho on a regular basis. Lama Yontan teaches meditation at the Geiger Minimum Security Detention Center near Spokane on Monday nights and reports that he has fifteen enthusiastic students, both men and women.
Four students from the Padma Ling sangha attended winter retreat with Chagdud Rinpoche this year, and some of them are already organizing their time and resources so they can attend again next year. Visitors from three states came to the three-day New Year's practice at Padma Ling, which started with a T'hroma empowerment given by Lama Inge. We thank the hardworking helpers who assisted in making the New Year's practice a fulfilling experience for everyone.
March events at the center included a p'howa workshop and ngondro workshop. Lama Inge will be going to Portland April 2-4 for a public talk and ngondro teachings. In May we are looking forward to a visit from Prema Desara from Hawaii, who will teach her Dances of 21 Taras. At the end of the practice sessions there will be a performance of the dances at the Spokane Convention Center.
Finally, Padma Ling has been invited to sell momos at the Fourth of July Spokane Neighborhood Days at Riverfront Park. Call if you would like to help us make momos. This event promises to be an excellent fund-raiser for Padma Ling.
The annual Tara Tsog at Thanksgiving brought great joy and benefit to those who attended. We all wish to thank the Ven. Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche for his visit and for showering us with his un-repayable kindness.
Momos are always popular and our booth was well received at the Asian Celebration in Eugene in February. In August we will be busy preparing for our momo booth at the Eugene Celebration in September. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat will be held at Dechhen Ling on the weekend of June 12-13. This is a very beneficial practice involving fasting and prayer. After the retreat, we are scheduling a large work party. We need help in the excavation and ground preparation necessary to construct a new cement foundation for the River Road house.
Donations are essential for the realization of this and future projects. We are holding a raffle, with tickets at $10 each or six for $50. The first prize is a valuable Vajrasattva Yab Yum statue. Second prize is a Tibetan carpet, and third prize is a silk woven t'hanga. Many smaller treasures are also being offered. The drawing will be June 6 at Rigdzin Ling.
We are also raising money for the foundation by soliciting donations that will be matched up to $5,000 by a tax-deductible matching funds program. Those who give donations of $500 or more will be recognized by having their names (or one of their loved ones) engraved on a brass plaque and permanently mounted at Dechhen Ling. In considering your donation, please remember the historical value and role of Dechhen Ling as a dharma center.
In August we are offering a Small Golden Step Workshop for Children. This will combine outdoor activities such as camping, swimming, and picnic meals, in an age appropriate structure with an introduction to the dharma. Art, music, lama dancing, Jataka tales and language studies will be offered. This is a wonderful chance for the whole family to relax and have fun.
Practice is ongoing at Dechhen Ling, with daily puja and tsog days being observed. Sunday practice sessions are followed by teachings from Lama Sonam. Of special note is the Tibetan language program, Saturdays from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Participants are asked to make a one year commitment, and the program is free to all members. Lama Sonam is also available for private consultation and can be reached at (503)942-7270. For more information or to receive mailings concerning local activities, please contact Dechhen Ling. Donations can be made to Oregon Chagdud Gonpa and marked "raffle" or''building fund." Thank you!
__________
The long awaited visit of Chagdud Rinpoche was an enriching experience for the sangha attending the Akshobhya empowerment and practice sessions. Rinpoche' s presence propelled a powerful group practice which certainly removed obstacles for those individuals present and in general. The sangha was also thankful to Rinpoche for an informal question and answer session where people had an opportunity to receive the kind of clarification possible only in the presence of the lama.
Plans are underway for the first of many regular visits by Lama Gyatso in May. The sangha has pulled together and is committed to making these first visits a well-attended success. We are all very grateful to Rinpoche for bringing Lama Gyatso to Los Angeles.
__________
The Water Bird Year was ushered in with jovial festivity at a party at Ati Ling on February 27. Traditional Tibetan foods and an atmosphere of warmth and good cheer amongst everyone present, including the sangha children, was a delightful and spirited way to set the tone for the year ahead.
A full schedule of teachings will be offered by Jigme Rinpoche in the Bay Area this spring. After a four-day Nyung-Nay Retreat at Ati Ling in early March, Jigme Rinpoche will give teachings in Berkeley, Marin County, San Francisco, Santa Rosa and St. Helena throughout the spring. Then, in June, Chagdud Rinpoche will conduct a T'hroma retreat in the Napa Valley.
On May 15 and 16, Chagdud Rinpoche will bestow the following Chagdud Gonpa daily practice empowerments: Wrathful Guru Rinpoche, Essence of Siddhi, T'hang-tong Gyalpo, Lion-Faced Dakini, Standing Red Tara, T'hroma, Red Vajrasattva and Manjushri. On Sunday, April 4, Jigme Rinpoche will give the following empowerments: Yeshe Tsogyal, Red Tara, Takhyung Barwa and Vajrakilaya. These empowerments will make is possible to participate fully in the daily Vajrayana practices conducted at any Chagdud Gonpa center.
__________
Amrita continues to meet every Monday night to practice together the short Red Tara practice, Ta Khyung Barwa, and the short fire puja. Then we have refreshments and a time for discussion where Richard can answer questions. Also, twice monthly we gather for Guru Rinpoche or Red Tara practice with tsog offering. We will soon be scheduling all day preliminary practice sessions,
Of particular note: Amrita has joined with several other Seattle Dharma centers to invite and host a visit by H.H. the Dalai Lama. He will be in Seattle to give a public talk on June 14th and the empowerment of Chenrezig on the 15th. Anyone who has the intention to come for these events should contact us here for details as soon as possible since admission to the empowerment will be somewhat limited. We can also arrange accommodation for Chagdud Gonpa sangha for those few days.
__________
The resident sangha members here wish to express gratitude to Jigme Tromge Rinpoche and Lama Sonam Tsering and families for coming to Rigdzin Ling and enriching the New Year activities. Their presence always brings immeasurable blessing.
The Losar puja was held in the newly finished shrine room at Tara House, which was thereby christened for future practice. Nearing completion is Rinpoche's retreat space atop Tara House, to be finished in time for the drubchens this summer.
We are currently fundraising for the completion of the first floor of Tara House before May 23, the beginning of the Essence of Siddhi drubchen. If you know of any source of used supplies for a handicapped-accessible bathroom, window-fitting air conditioners or radiators and thermostats, or if you can donate skills (especially in tile or trim work) or funds, please call Mike McLaughlin at Rigdzin Ling.
The coming of spring to Junction City brings with it plans to irrigate and plant seedlings on the sparse landscape of Moonland. It is Rinpoche' s aspiration that the land be restored to its original beauty, as one can only imagine it was before the devastation of the dredging and strip mining of the gold rush days. As always, Rinpoche's inspiring vision encourages us to transform our ordinary perceptions of appearances into the view of a green and beautiful pureland. Our sincere gratitude to all of you who continue to enable Rinpoche's aspirations to manifest.
__________
An extended visit by Rinpoche to Brazil will take place from July to September of this year. Rinpoche will be visiting at least six different cities, and perhaps other South American countries as well. Local sangha members are busy putting together Rinpoche's first home in Brazil which will include two rooms and a shrineroom. Rinpoche has been offered donations of land in two different cities to establish retreat centers. Ngondro and Red Tara practice groups continue to meet weekly in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte, and will now benefit from the renewed enthusiasm of the six Brazilians who, for the first time, attended Dzogchen Retreat this past winter.
The dharma is radiating not only to schools, colleges and churches in the immediate Spokane area, but to outlying areas. Lama Yontan has established regular teachings and practice sessions in Sandpoint, Idaho on beautiful Lake Ponderay. Both Lama Inge and Lama Yontan are teaching in Moscow, Idaho on a regular basis. Lama Yontan teaches meditation at the Geiger Minimum Security Detention Center near Spokane on Monday nights and reports that he has fifteen enthusiastic students, both men and women.
Four students from the Padma Ling sangha attended winter retreat with Chagdud Rinpoche this year, and some of them are already organizing their time and resources so they can attend again next year. Visitors from three states came to the three-day New Year's practice at Padma Ling, which started with a T'hroma empowerment given by Lama Inge. We thank the hardworking helpers who assisted in making the New Year's practice a fulfilling experience for everyone.
March events at the center included a p'howa workshop and ngondro workshop. Lama Inge will be going to Portland April 2-4 for a public talk and ngondro teachings. In May we are looking forward to a visit from Prema Desara from Hawaii, who will teach her Dances of 21 Taras. At the end of the practice sessions there will be a performance of the dances at the Spokane Convention Center.
Finally, Padma Ling has been invited to sell momos at the Fourth of July Spokane Neighborhood Days at Riverfront Park. Call if you would like to help us make momos. This event promises to be an excellent fund-raiser for Padma Ling.
The annual Tara Tsog at Thanksgiving brought great joy and benefit to those who attended. We all wish to thank the Ven. Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche for his visit and for showering us with his un-repayable kindness.
Momos are always popular and our booth was well received at the Asian Celebration in Eugene in February. In August we will be busy preparing for our momo booth at the Eugene Celebration in September. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat will be held at Dechhen Ling on the weekend of June 12-13. This is a very beneficial practice involving fasting and prayer. After the retreat, we are scheduling a large work party. We need help in the excavation and ground preparation necessary to construct a new cement foundation for the River Road house.
Donations are essential for the realization of this and future projects. We are holding a raffle, with tickets at $10 each or six for $50. The first prize is a valuable Vajrasattva Yab Yum statue. Second prize is a Tibetan carpet, and third prize is a silk woven t'hanga. Many smaller treasures are also being offered. The drawing will be June 6 at Rigdzin Ling.
We are also raising money for the foundation by soliciting donations that will be matched up to $5,000 by a tax-deductible matching funds program. Those who give donations of $500 or more will be recognized by having their names (or one of their loved ones) engraved on a brass plaque and permanently mounted at Dechhen Ling. In considering your donation, please remember the historical value and role of Dechhen Ling as a dharma center.
In August we are offering a Small Golden Step Workshop for Children. This will combine outdoor activities such as camping, swimming, and picnic meals, in an age appropriate structure with an introduction to the dharma. Art, music, lama dancing, Jataka tales and language studies will be offered. This is a wonderful chance for the whole family to relax and have fun.
Practice is ongoing at Dechhen Ling, with daily puja and tsog days being observed. Sunday practice sessions are followed by teachings from Lama Sonam. Of special note is the Tibetan language program, Saturdays from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Participants are asked to make a one year commitment, and the program is free to all members. Lama Sonam is also available for private consultation and can be reached at (503)942-7270. For more information or to receive mailings concerning local activities, please contact Dechhen Ling. Donations can be made to Oregon Chagdud Gonpa and marked "raffle" or''building fund." Thank you!
__________
The long awaited visit of Chagdud Rinpoche was an enriching experience for the sangha attending the Akshobhya empowerment and practice sessions. Rinpoche' s presence propelled a powerful group practice which certainly removed obstacles for those individuals present and in general. The sangha was also thankful to Rinpoche for an informal question and answer session where people had an opportunity to receive the kind of clarification possible only in the presence of the lama.
Plans are underway for the first of many regular visits by Lama Gyatso in May. The sangha has pulled together and is committed to making these first visits a well-attended success. We are all very grateful to Rinpoche for bringing Lama Gyatso to Los Angeles.
__________
The Water Bird Year was ushered in with jovial festivity at a party at Ati Ling on February 27. Traditional Tibetan foods and an atmosphere of warmth and good cheer amongst everyone present, including the sangha children, was a delightful and spirited way to set the tone for the year ahead.
A full schedule of teachings will be offered by Jigme Rinpoche in the Bay Area this spring. After a four-day Nyung-Nay Retreat at Ati Ling in early March, Jigme Rinpoche will give teachings in Berkeley, Marin County, San Francisco, Santa Rosa and St. Helena throughout the spring. Then, in June, Chagdud Rinpoche will conduct a T'hroma retreat in the Napa Valley.
On May 15 and 16, Chagdud Rinpoche will bestow the following Chagdud Gonpa daily practice empowerments: Wrathful Guru Rinpoche, Essence of Siddhi, T'hang-tong Gyalpo, Lion-Faced Dakini, Standing Red Tara, T'hroma, Red Vajrasattva and Manjushri. On Sunday, April 4, Jigme Rinpoche will give the following empowerments: Yeshe Tsogyal, Red Tara, Takhyung Barwa and Vajrakilaya. These empowerments will make is possible to participate fully in the daily Vajrayana practices conducted at any Chagdud Gonpa center.
__________
Amrita continues to meet every Monday night to practice together the short Red Tara practice, Ta Khyung Barwa, and the short fire puja. Then we have refreshments and a time for discussion where Richard can answer questions. Also, twice monthly we gather for Guru Rinpoche or Red Tara practice with tsog offering. We will soon be scheduling all day preliminary practice sessions,
Of particular note: Amrita has joined with several other Seattle Dharma centers to invite and host a visit by H.H. the Dalai Lama. He will be in Seattle to give a public talk on June 14th and the empowerment of Chenrezig on the 15th. Anyone who has the intention to come for these events should contact us here for details as soon as possible since admission to the empowerment will be somewhat limited. We can also arrange accommodation for Chagdud Gonpa sangha for those few days.
__________
The resident sangha members here wish to express gratitude to Jigme Tromge Rinpoche and Lama Sonam Tsering and families for coming to Rigdzin Ling and enriching the New Year activities. Their presence always brings immeasurable blessing.
The Losar puja was held in the newly finished shrine room at Tara House, which was thereby christened for future practice. Nearing completion is Rinpoche's retreat space atop Tara House, to be finished in time for the drubchens this summer.
We are currently fundraising for the completion of the first floor of Tara House before May 23, the beginning of the Essence of Siddhi drubchen. If you know of any source of used supplies for a handicapped-accessible bathroom, window-fitting air conditioners or radiators and thermostats, or if you can donate skills (especially in tile or trim work) or funds, please call Mike McLaughlin at Rigdzin Ling.
The coming of spring to Junction City brings with it plans to irrigate and plant seedlings on the sparse landscape of Moonland. It is Rinpoche' s aspiration that the land be restored to its original beauty, as one can only imagine it was before the devastation of the dredging and strip mining of the gold rush days. As always, Rinpoche's inspiring vision encourages us to transform our ordinary perceptions of appearances into the view of a green and beautiful pureland. Our sincere gratitude to all of you who continue to enable Rinpoche's aspirations to manifest.
__________
An extended visit by Rinpoche to Brazil will take place from July to September of this year. Rinpoche will be visiting at least six different cities, and perhaps other South American countries as well. Local sangha members are busy putting together Rinpoche's first home in Brazil which will include two rooms and a shrineroom. Rinpoche has been offered donations of land in two different cities to establish retreat centers. Ngondro and Red Tara practice groups continue to meet weekly in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte, and will now benefit from the renewed enthusiasm of the six Brazilians who, for the first time, attended Dzogchen Retreat this past winter.
The dharma is radiating not only to schools, colleges and churches in the immediate Spokane area, but to outlying areas. Lama Yontan has established regular teachings and practice sessions in Sandpoint, Idaho on beautiful Lake Ponderay. Both Lama Inge and Lama Yontan are teaching in Moscow, Idaho on a regular basis. Lama Yontan teaches meditation at the Geiger Minimum Security Detention Center near Spokane on Monday nights and reports that he has fifteen enthusiastic students, both men and women.
Four students from the Padma Ling sangha attended winter retreat with Chagdud Rinpoche this year, and some of them are already organizing their time and resources so they can attend again next year. Visitors from three states came to the three-day New Year's practice at Padma Ling, which started with a T'hroma empowerment given by Lama Inge. We thank the hardworking helpers who assisted in making the New Year's practice a fulfilling experience for everyone.
March events at the center included a p'howa workshop and ngondro workshop. Lama Inge will be going to Portland April 2-4 for a public talk and ngondro teachings. In May we are looking forward to a visit from Prema Desara from Hawaii, who will teach her Dances of 21 Taras. At the end of the practice sessions there will be a performance of the dances at the Spokane Convention Center.
Finally, Padma Ling has been invited to sell momos at the Fourth of July Spokane Neighborhood Days at Riverfront Park. Call if you would like to help us make momos. This event promises to be an excellent fund-raiser for Padma Ling.
The annual Tara Tsog at Thanksgiving brought great joy and benefit to those who attended. We all wish to thank the Ven. Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche for his visit and for showering us with his un-repayable kindness.
Momos are always popular and our booth was well received at the Asian Celebration in Eugene in February. In August we will be busy preparing for our momo booth at the Eugene Celebration in September. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat will be held at Dechhen Ling on the weekend of June 12-13. This is a very beneficial practice involving fasting and prayer. After the retreat, we are scheduling a large work party. We need help in the excavation and ground preparation necessary to construct a new cement foundation for the River Road house.
Donations are essential for the realization of this and future projects. We are holding a raffle, with tickets at $10 each or six for $50. The first prize is a valuable Vajrasattva Yab Yum statue. Second prize is a Tibetan carpet, and third prize is a silk woven t'hanga. Many smaller treasures are also being offered. The drawing will be June 6 at Rigdzin Ling.
We are also raising money for the foundation by soliciting donations that will be matched up to $5,000 by a tax-deductible matching funds program. Those who give donations of $500 or more will be recognized by having their names (or one of their loved ones) engraved on a brass plaque and permanently mounted at Dechhen Ling. In considering your donation, please remember the historical value and role of Dechhen Ling as a dharma center.
In August we are offering a Small Golden Step Workshop for Children. This will combine outdoor activities such as camping, swimming, and picnic meals, in an age appropriate structure with an introduction to the dharma. Art, music, lama dancing, Jataka tales and language studies will be offered. This is a wonderful chance for the whole family to relax and have fun.
Practice is ongoing at Dechhen Ling, with daily puja and tsog days being observed. Sunday practice sessions are followed by teachings from Lama Sonam. Of special note is the Tibetan language program, Saturdays from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Participants are asked to make a one year commitment, and the program is free to all members. Lama Sonam is also available for private consultation and can be reached at (503)942-7270. For more information or to receive mailings concerning local activities, please contact Dechhen Ling. Donations can be made to Oregon Chagdud Gonpa and marked "raffle" or''building fund." Thank you!
__________
The long awaited visit of Chagdud Rinpoche was an enriching experience for the sangha attending the Akshobhya empowerment and practice sessions. Rinpoche' s presence propelled a powerful group practice which certainly removed obstacles for those individuals present and in general. The sangha was also thankful to Rinpoche for an informal question and answer session where people had an opportunity to receive the kind of clarification possible only in the presence of the lama.
Plans are underway for the first of many regular visits by Lama Gyatso in May. The sangha has pulled together and is committed to making these first visits a well-attended success. We are all very grateful to Rinpoche for bringing Lama Gyatso to Los Angeles.
__________
The Water Bird Year was ushered in with jovial festivity at a party at Ati Ling on February 27. Traditional Tibetan foods and an atmosphere of warmth and good cheer amongst everyone present, including the sangha children, was a delightful and spirited way to set the tone for the year ahead.
A full schedule of teachings will be offered by Jigme Rinpoche in the Bay Area this spring. After a four-day Nyung-Nay Retreat at Ati Ling in early March, Jigme Rinpoche will give teachings in Berkeley, Marin County, San Francisco, Santa Rosa and St. Helena throughout the spring. Then, in June, Chagdud Rinpoche will conduct a T'hroma retreat in the Napa Valley.
On May 15 and 16, Chagdud Rinpoche will bestow the following Chagdud Gonpa daily practice empowerments: Wrathful Guru Rinpoche, Essence of Siddhi, T'hang-tong Gyalpo, Lion-Faced Dakini, Standing Red Tara, T'hroma, Red Vajrasattva and Manjushri. On Sunday, April 4, Jigme Rinpoche will give the following empowerments: Yeshe Tsogyal, Red Tara, Takhyung Barwa and Vajrakilaya. These empowerments will make is possible to participate fully in the daily Vajrayana practices conducted at any Chagdud Gonpa center.
__________
Amrita continues to meet every Monday night to practice together the short Red Tara practice, Ta Khyung Barwa, and the short fire puja. Then we have refreshments and a time for discussion where Richard can answer questions. Also, twice monthly we gather for Guru Rinpoche or Red Tara practice with tsog offering. We will soon be scheduling all day preliminary practice sessions,
Of particular note: Amrita has joined with several other Seattle Dharma centers to invite and host a visit by H.H. the Dalai Lama. He will be in Seattle to give a public talk on June 14th and the empowerment of Chenrezig on the 15th. Anyone who has the intention to come for these events should contact us here for details as soon as possible since admission to the empowerment will be somewhat limited. We can also arrange accommodation for Chagdud Gonpa sangha for those few days.
__________
The resident sangha members here wish to express gratitude to Jigme Tromge Rinpoche and Lama Sonam Tsering and families for coming to Rigdzin Ling and enriching the New Year activities. Their presence always brings immeasurable blessing.
The Losar puja was held in the newly finished shrine room at Tara House, which was thereby christened for future practice. Nearing completion is Rinpoche's retreat space atop Tara House, to be finished in time for the drubchens this summer.
We are currently fundraising for the completion of the first floor of Tara House before May 23, the beginning of the Essence of Siddhi drubchen. If you know of any source of used supplies for a handicapped-accessible bathroom, window-fitting air conditioners or radiators and thermostats, or if you can donate skills (especially in tile or trim work) or funds, please call Mike McLaughlin at Rigdzin Ling.
The coming of spring to Junction City brings with it plans to irrigate and plant seedlings on the sparse landscape of Moonland. It is Rinpoche' s aspiration that the land be restored to its original beauty, as one can only imagine it was before the devastation of the dredging and strip mining of the gold rush days. As always, Rinpoche's inspiring vision encourages us to transform our ordinary perceptions of appearances into the view of a green and beautiful pureland. Our sincere gratitude to all of you who continue to enable Rinpoche's aspirations to manifest.
__________
An extended visit by Rinpoche to Brazil will take place from July to September of this year. Rinpoche will be visiting at least six different cities, and perhaps other South American countries as well. Local sangha members are busy putting together Rinpoche's first home in Brazil which will include two rooms and a shrineroom. Rinpoche has been offered donations of land in two different cities to establish retreat centers. Ngondro and Red Tara practice groups continue to meet weekly in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte, and will now benefit from the renewed enthusiasm of the six Brazilians who, for the first time, attended Dzogchen Retreat this past winter.
The dharma is radiating not only to schools, colleges and churches in the immediate Spokane area, but to outlying areas. Lama Yontan has established regular teachings and practice sessions in Sandpoint, Idaho on beautiful Lake Ponderay. Both Lama Inge and Lama Yontan are teaching in Moscow, Idaho on a regular basis. Lama Yontan teaches meditation at the Geiger Minimum Security Detention Center near Spokane on Monday nights and reports that he has fifteen enthusiastic students, both men and women.
Four students from the Padma Ling sangha attended winter retreat with Chagdud Rinpoche this year, and some of them are already organizing their time and resources so they can attend again next year. Visitors from three states came to the three-day New Year's practice at Padma Ling, which started with a T'hroma empowerment given by Lama Inge. We thank the hardworking helpers who assisted in making the New Year's practice a fulfilling experience for everyone.
March events at the center included a p'howa workshop and ngondro workshop. Lama Inge will be going to Portland April 2-4 for a public talk and ngondro teachings. In May we are looking forward to a visit from Prema Desara from Hawaii, who will teach her Dances of 21 Taras. At the end of the practice sessions there will be a performance of the dances at the Spokane Convention Center.
Finally, Padma Ling has been invited to sell momos at the Fourth of July Spokane Neighborhood Days at Riverfront Park. Call if you would like to help us make momos. This event promises to be an excellent fund-raiser for Padma Ling.
The annual Tara Tsog at Thanksgiving brought great joy and benefit to those who attended. We all wish to thank the Ven. Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche for his visit and for showering us with his un-repayable kindness.
Momos are always popular and our booth was well received at the Asian Celebration in Eugene in February. In August we will be busy preparing for our momo booth at the Eugene Celebration in September. The annual Nyung-Nay retreat will be held at Dechhen Ling on the weekend of June 12-13. This is a very beneficial practice involving fasting and prayer. After the retreat, we are scheduling a large work party. We need help in the excavation and ground preparation necessary to construct a new cement foundation for the River Road house.
Donations are essential for the realization of this and future projects. We are holding a raffle, with tickets at $10 each or six for $50. The first prize is a valuable Vajrasattva Yab Yum statue. Second prize is a Tibetan carpet, and third prize is a silk woven t'hanga. Many smaller treasures are also being offered. The drawing will be June 6 at Rigdzin Ling.
We are also raising money for the foundation by soliciting donations that will be matched up to $5,000 by a tax-deductible matching funds program. Those who give donations of $500 or more will be recognized by having their names (or one of their loved ones) engraved on a brass plaque and permanently mounted at Dechhen Ling. In considering your donation, please remember the historical value and role of Dechhen Ling as a dharma center.
In August we are offering a Small Golden Step Workshop for Children. This will combine outdoor activities such as camping, swimming, and picnic meals, in an age appropriate structure with an introduction to the dharma. Art, music, lama dancing, Jataka tales and language studies will be offered. This is a wonderful chance for the whole family to relax and have fun.
Practice is ongoing at Dechhen Ling, with daily puja and tsog days being observed. Sunday practice sessions are followed by teachings from Lama Sonam. Of special note is the Tibetan language program, Saturdays from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Participants are asked to make a one year commitment, and the program is free to all members. Lama Sonam is also available for private consultation and can be reached at (503)942-7270. For more information or to receive mailings concerning local activities, please contact Dechhen Ling. Donations can be made to Oregon Chagdud Gonpa and marked "raffle" or''building fund." Thank you!
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The long awaited visit of Chagdud Rinpoche was an enriching experience for the sangha attending the Akshobhya empowerment and practice sessions. Rinpoche' s presence propelled a powerful group practice which certainly removed obstacles for those individuals present and in general. The sangha was also thankful to Rinpoche for an informal question and answer session where people had an opportunity to receive the kind of clarification possible only in the presence of the lama.
Plans are underway for the first of many regular visits by Lama Gyatso in May. The sangha has pulled together and is committed to making these first visits a well-attended success. We are all very grateful to Rinpoche for bringing Lama Gyatso to Los Angeles.
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The Water Bird Year was ushered in with jovial festivity at a party at Ati Ling on February 27. Traditional Tibetan foods and an atmosphere of warmth and good cheer amongst everyone present, including the sangha children, was a delightful and spirited way to set the tone for the year ahead.
A full schedule of teachings will be offered by Jigme Rinpoche in the Bay Area this spring. After a four-day Nyung-Nay Retreat at Ati Ling in early March, Jigme Rinpoche will give teachings in Berkeley, Marin County, San Francisco, Santa Rosa and St. Helena throughout the spring. Then, in June, Chagdud Rinpoche will conduct a T'hroma retreat in the Napa Valley.
On May 15 and 16, Chagdud Rinpoche will bestow the following Chagdud Gonpa daily practice empowerments: Wrathful Guru Rinpoche, Essence of Siddhi, T'hang-tong Gyalpo, Lion-Faced Dakini, Standing Red Tara, T'hroma, Red Vajrasattva and Manjushri. On Sunday, April 4, Jigme Rinpoche will give the following empowerments: Yeshe Tsogyal, Red Tara, Takhyung Barwa and Vajrakilaya. These empowerments will make is possible to participate fully in the daily Vajrayana practices conducted at any Chagdud Gonpa center.
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Amrita continues to meet every Monday night to practice together the short Red Tara practice, Ta Khyung Barwa, and the short fire puja. Then we have refreshments and a time for discussion where Richard can answer questions. Also, twice monthly we gather for Guru Rinpoche or Red Tara practice with tsog offering. We will soon be scheduling all day preliminary practice sessions,
Of particular note: Amrita has joined with several other Seattle Dharma centers to invite and host a visit by H.H. the Dalai Lama. He will be in Seattle to give a public talk on June 14th and the empowerment of Chenrezig on the 15th. Anyone who has the intention to come for these events should contact us here for details as soon as possible since admission to the empowerment will be somewhat limited. We can also arrange accommodation for Chagdud Gonpa sangha for those few days.
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The resident sangha members here wish to express gratitude to Jigme Tromge Rinpoche and Lama Sonam Tsering and families for coming to Rigdzin Ling and enriching the New Year activities. Their presence always brings immeasurable blessing.
The Losar puja was held in the newly finished shrine room at Tara House, which was thereby christened for future practice. Nearing completion is Rinpoche's retreat space atop Tara House, to be finished in time for the drubchens this summer.
We are currently fundraising for the completion of the first floor of Tara House before May 23, the beginning of the Essence of Siddhi drubchen. If you know of any source of used supplies for a handicapped-accessible bathroom, window-fitting air conditioners or radiators and thermostats, or if you can donate skills (especially in tile or trim work) or funds, please call Mike McLaughlin at Rigdzin Ling.
The coming of spring to Junction City brings with it plans to irrigate and plant seedlings on the sparse landscape of Moonland. It is Rinpoche' s aspiration that the land be restored to its original beauty, as one can only imagine it was before the devastation of the dredging and strip mining of the gold rush days. As always, Rinpoche's inspiring vision encourages us to transform our ordinary perceptions of appearances into the view of a green and beautiful pureland. Our sincere gratitude to all of you who continue to enable Rinpoche's aspirations to manifest.
__________
An extended visit by Rinpoche to Brazil will take place from July to September of this year. Rinpoche will be visiting at least six different cities, and perhaps other South American countries as well. Local sangha members are busy putting together Rinpoche's first home in Brazil which will include two rooms and a shrineroom. Rinpoche has been offered donations of land in two different cities to establish retreat centers. Ngondro and Red Tara practice groups continue to meet weekly in Sao Paulo and Belo Horizonte, and will now benefit from the renewed enthusiasm of the six Brazilians who, for the first time, attended Dzogchen Retreat this past winter.
The dharma is radiating not only to schools, colleges and churches in the immediate Spokane area, but to outlying areas. Lama Yontan has established regular teachings and practice sessions in Sandpoint, Idaho on beautiful Lake Ponderay. Both Lama Inge and Lama Yontan are teaching in Moscow, Idaho on a regular basis. Lama Yontan teaches meditation at the Geiger Minimum Security Detention Center near Spokane on Monday nights and reports that he has fifteen enthusiastic students, both men and women.
Four students from the Padma Ling sangha attended winter retreat with Chagdud Rinpoche this year, and some of them are already organizing their time and resources so they can attend again next year. Visitors from three states came to the three-day New Year's practice at Padma Ling, which started with a T'hroma empowerment given by Lama Inge. We thank the hardworking helpers who assisted in making the New Year's practice a fulfilling experience for everyone.
March events at the center included a p'howa workshop and ngondro workshop. Lama Inge will be going to Portland April 2-4 for a public talk and ngondro teachings. In May we are looking forward to a visit from Prema Desara from Hawaii, who will teach her Dances of 21 Taras. At the end of the practice sessions there will be a performance of the dances at the Spokane Convention Center.
Finally, Padma Ling has been invited to sell momos at the Fourth of July Spokane Neighborhood Days at Riverfront Park. Call if you would like to help us make momos. This event promises to be an excellent fund-raiser for Padma Ling.
