It is the community of spiritual friends and fellow students that serve as a help and support in our journey to enlightenment. In traditional Asian cultures, the sangha and the gurus which instruct it have been supported by various means. These include begging, state support, patronage by the wealthy and even quasi-feudal ownership of land. Here in North America the method of support for dharma activities is our more familiar system of dues, donations, admission to events and special fundraisers. It is often uncomfortable for people to talk about money in relation to spiritual work. To some it might imply that we can put a price on the value of a teaching or the spiritual community we have formed. Of course this is not the case. However, in a capitalist society based on free enterprise we must take responsibility for our own sangha and guru(s). That is why each individual must support the sangha through dues, payment for teachings, etc. Everyone's financial situation is different. So everyone will not give the same amount at the same time. But please realize that any amount is beneficial to the sangha and you the giver. Generosity is one of the foundations of an actively Buddhist life.
If this little exhortation has convinced you to give, there are several ongoing projects that could use your support. This list isn't exhaustive; these are just some of the items on the front burner right now. First, there is regular support for GBLT for rent, utilities, this newsletter, etc. There is also a separate fund being started to generate a monthly stipend for Zasep Tulku Rinpoche. This is to help with the daily living expenses of our teacher. There is a fundraising effort ongoing to generate cash for the purchase of land for a Gompa (teaching and retreat center) near Nelson, BC. Rinpoche is also gathering funds and/or supplies to construct a hospital in his home region of eastern Tibet. Finally, there are many monks and even young lamas in India who could benefit from our financial support. Donations or dues may be dropped by our center in Moscow or passed on through other sangha members. If you would like to target your giving to one of the above projects, please note this on your check or somehow make it clear to the treasurer.
In closing, I'd like to thank everyone who has given so generously up to now. I would also like to encourage them and all other dedicated dharma students to make regular giving a part of their practice.
For more information, see our Membership Page.
Teachings will be given by Chuck Damov, a senior student of Rinpoche's and for over 20 years a student of Buddhism. Chuck has received teachings and initiations from many teachers, including HH Zong Rinpoche, HH Ling Rinpoche, HH the Dalai Lama, HH Khalkha Jetsun Dampa, HH Sakya Trizen, Jetsun Kusho Rinpoche, Kalu Rinpoche and Sogyal Rinpoche. His first teachers were Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche.
Chuck has completed various group and individual retreats. Chuck is a practicing social worker worker in Vancouver, BC and brings his sense of humor and unique style to the teachings.
