Ithaca, New York: The inaugural ceremony of His Holiness the Dalai Lama Library and Learning Center (HHDL LLC), established by Namgyal Monastery Institute of Buddhist Studies, was held on 8 September in Ithaca, New York.

Kyabje Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche graced the event as the chief guest, alongside Khenpo Tromthok Rinpoche of Phende Leksheyling monastery, North America’s Office of Tibet Representative Dr Namgyal Choedup, Secretary Lobsang Jinpa Nampeltsang of Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Kasur Lobsang Nyendak, sponsors and the general public bringing the total people in attendance to around 400.

Ithaca-based Namgyal Monastery Institute of Buddhist Studies’ President Ven. Tenzin Choesang briefed the gathering on the objective of establishing this learning centre and the chronology. The Abbot of Namgyal Monastery shared the distinct characteristics of the library and learning centre, expressing his hope that it would meet the needs of both Tibetans and foreigners alike.

Kyabje Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche congratulated Namgyal Monastery and sponsors on the successful completion of the library and learning centre and expressed gratitude to them for supporting the impactful initiative of His Holiness to steer learning in a new direction.

Secretary Lobsang Jinpa Nampeltsang of the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Kasur Lobsang Nyendak delivered the message of His Holiness for the special occasion in both Tibetan and English.

Representative Dr Namgyal Choedup of the Office of Tibet in North America thanked all the concerned staff of Namgyal Monastery Institute of Buddhist Studies responsible for the centre dedicated to the benefit of all sentient beings. He said that His Holiness has been engaged for the past 64 years since arriving in exile to working for the Tibetan cause tirelessly, which has been surpassed by his commitment to spreading the message of the oneness of humanity, enhancement of the intrinsic compassionate nature through means of education, and sowing the seeds of a peaceful world. He conveyed his congratulations to those involved in establishing this centre.

Following the inaugural ceremony, the weekend school staff presented a cultural performance for the guests. After the conclusion of the first-day programme, the next day saw discussions continue on the four principal commitments of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, religious harmony, and secular ethics.

–Filed by the Office of Tibet, Washington-DC