His Holiness Sakya Gongma Trichen Visits Santa Monica
On Tuesday August 6, at the invitation of Lama Jampa Thaye, Dechen LA - Sakya Buddhist Center was blessed to welcome His Holiness Gongma Trichen Rinpoche, Her Eminence Gyalyum Chenmo and their entourage to Santa Monica.
His Holiness has visited Dechen centres many times, most recently giving the rarely bestowed initiation of Red Saraswati at Sakya Changlochen Ling, Dechen‘s European retreat centre on July 4, 2023. His last visit to Dechen LA was in 2018.
His Holiness arriving at the Colonnade Ballroom, Casa del Mar
On a beautiful, sun drenched afternoon in the Colonnade Ballroom at Hotel Casa del Mar, His Holiness bestowed the precious initiation of Vajrapani Bhutadhamara to over 200 fortunate disciples. It was a magical occasion where all who were present shared in the amazing atmosphere and rejoiced at the opportunity to be in the glorious presence of His Holiness.
The initiation of Vajrapani Bhutadhamara
Lama Jampa Thaye travelled from France to be in Santa Monica and was with the sangha for two days prior to His Holiness‘ arrival. The sangha of Dechen LA, joined by several members of Dechen Mexico, worked tirelessly to make the afternoon a resounding success and provide a truly welcoming experience for all who attended. It was a fantastic opportunity to share together in dharma activity with its enriching and inspirational qualities and the sangha feels immeasurably blessed.
Lama Jampa Thaye providing concluding remarks
His Holiness, Her Eminence and entourage flew to Vancouver on Wednesday where he is now sharing private time with his sister Her Eminence Jetsun Kushok Chime Luding. Lama Jampa flew back to France where he will resume his teaching program at Dhagpo Kagyu Ling on Saturday before beginning the annual Sakya Changlochen Ling teaching course on Sunday August 18.
His Holiness Sakya Trichen and Lama Jampa Thaye
Photo credits: Sam Harwood and Daniela Bachi - Dechen LA