New Year’s Eve 2025 Practices
If you are looking for a different way to welcome the new year, or you’re feeling anxious about the year ahead, come make the first words you speak in 2025 words of Dharma - it is truly a powerful and beautiful experience. This year, we will have two opportunities to participate. Most of these
The Great Aspiration Prayer to Kuntuzangpo
Great Aspiration Prayer to Kuntuzangpo
A Guide to Practices at KPC
Did you know that every single day at KPC, there is a group practice anyone can attend? Every day, there are opportunities to explore and learn about Tibetan Buddhism, get to know our community, and everyone is welcome. If you’ve never been to a Tibetan Buddhist practice, here are some things you can
Non-Stop Compassionate Action at KPC is Fueled by Ongoing Prayers and YOU!
Non-Stop Compassionate Action at KPC is Fueled by Ongoing Prayers and YOU! In the spirit of DoMore24, we invite you to take a look at all the compassionate activities here at KPC, which are all dedicated to bringing an end to suffering for all beings. We hope you will
Khenpo Karze Teaching Series – Now on Wednesdays
Khenpo Karze Teaching Series - Now on Wednesdays! Khenpo Karze is offering a Dharma banquet of regular teachings at KPC. He is knowledgeable, cheerful, open and delighted to engage with westerners, offering his wisdom from years of study at Namdroling in India. He is interested in all of Jetsunma’s
Register for Khenpo Karze Regular Teachings at KPC
Register for Khenpo Karze's Regular Teachings at KPC Khenpo Karze is offering regular monthly teachings at KPC. These can be attended in person at KPC, or if that’s not possible, on zoom. Please register for March 16th, March 27th and March 30th by following the link below.
Khenpo Karze Schedules Regular Teachings at KPC
Khenpo Karze Schedules Regular Teachings at KPC We joyfully announce that Khenpo Karze will offer a Dharma banquet of regular teachings at KPC. These can be attended in person in the Prayer Room at KPC Maryland, or on zoom, if that’s not possible. Beginning March 16th, Khenpo will offer
Khenpo Tenzin Karze to Teach this Saturday -2.16.24
Khenpo Tenzin Karze Will Teach This Saturday 2.16.24 With Jetsunma's blessing, Khenpo Tenzin Karze will give a teaching this Saturday, February 17th at 7pm ET on Daily Practice, Accumulating, and Purifying. Join us in the KPC Maryland Prayer Room or on Zoom. All are welcome. Register for Teaching
Service Without Ceasing
Service Without Ceasing Meet KPC's Newest Protector You don’t realize how dependent you are on electricity, or how vulnerable you are without it, until you lose power. When your location is at the very end of a power line, like Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC) in Maryland,
Khenpo Tenzin Norgay Teaches in Sedona
Khenpo Norgay Teaches in Sedona Venerable Khenpo Tenzin Norgay Rinpoche had a wonderful, joyful visit to Sedona, Arizona over New Years weekend On Saturday afternoon, Khenpo Norgay Rinpoche gave a teaching on the meaning and purpose of the Riwo Sang Chöd, or Mountain Smoke
H.H. Penor Rinpoche Teaching on Pride
H.H. Penor Rinpoche Teaching on Pride ”It's important to get rid of all arrogance and become humble, noble, and free of pride about your practice and accomplishments. You might have certain experiences and realizations that you would like to tell others about, but there is nothing special about such
Buddhist Relief Holiday Drive – It’s Not Too Late
Buddhist Relief Holiday Drive - It's Not Too Late We’re busy gathering and sorting toys for our partners. In addition to toys, Buddhist Relief is providing warm clothing and holiday food to the Upcounty Hub, WUMCO Help, IROC & First Baptist Church of Silver Spring. Celebrate with
24-hour Prayer Vigil – Living Proof of Compassion in Action
24-hour Prayer Vigil Living Proof of Compassion in Action On April 18, 1985, Jetsunma and her students began a 24-Hour Prayer Vigil for World Peace. Continuing unbroken to the present day, the Prayer Vigil, which takes place in the Prayer Room at Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC), in Poolesville,
A Weekend in Sedona, AZ with Ven. Khenpo Tenzin Norgay Rinpoche
A Weekend in Sedona, AZ with Ven. Khenpo Tenzin Norgay Rinpoche Saturday, December 30, 3pm The Purpose and Meaning of the Riwo Sangchöd Practice, with Venerable Khenpo Tenzin Norgay Rinpoche Sedonya Conscious Living Center, 120 Deer Trail Drive Sedona, AZ, www.sedonya.org $30 registration to attend Register Here
It’s Giving Tuesday!
It's Giving Tuesday Today! Generosity is a heart-opening practice. You'll quickly discover that when you give, your heart opens even more. KPC has many ongoing activities and efforts that help the community and all sentient beings. Some of which include our 65- acre Peace Park and wildlife sanctuary with
Thanksgiving Food & Clothing Distribution
Thanksgiving Food & Clothing Distribution On the Monday before Thanksgiving, volunteers from KPC Buddhist Relief joined staff from the Upcounty Hub along with dozens of community members to provide 500 Thanksgiving dinners to families facing food insecurity. Buddhist Relief contributed the pies, and we are very grateful
KPC Will Soon Welcome Khenpo Tenzin Yeshi
KPC Will Soon Welcome Khenpo Tenzin Yeshi We are excitedly anticipating the arrival of Khenpo Tenzin Yeshi to be the resident Khenpo at KPC. H.E. Mugsang Kuchen Rinpoche selected Khenpo Tenzin after receiving Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo’s request for a full-time teacher here. Khenpo Tenzin Yeshi came
Buddhist Giving Gardens Fall of 2023
Buddhist Giving Gardens Fall of 2023 As we work our way toward this year's end of year fundraising goal for $100,000 to support KPC's general fund…things have gotten off to a slow start. Just under $300 was raised as of writing this update, which prompted an immediate donation by
Pies & Warm Clothes
Pies & Warm Clothes The holidays and cold weather are fast approaching and it has inspired us to help! Please join us in sponsoring warm clothing sets and 600 Thanksgiving pies for those in need! We are partnering with the Immigrant and Refugee Outreach Center (IROC) to distribute the
The Peace Park is Better Than Ever
The Peace Park is Better Than Ever! If you haven’t yet walked the renovated Peace Park trails, well….don't wait any longer!!! Why? The first thing you will see when entering the Park is a glistening 13 foot high statue of Guru Rinpoche surrounded by a flagstone courtyard with benches,
Amitabha and Chenrezig Empowerments and Teachings with Khenpo Tenzin Norgay
Amitabha and Chenrezig Empowerments and Teachings with Khenpo Tenzin Norgay At the request of Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo, Khenpo Tenzin Norgay has agreed to come to KPC Maryland to give teachings and empowerments on two central deities in Vajrayana Buddhism - Amitabha and Chenrezig. For those new to Vajrayana, the
Compassionate Intentions from Kunzang Palyul Choling
Compassionate Intentions from Kunzang Palyul Choling Did you know that everything you see and experience at Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC) is due to the generosity of our donors? Because of you, KPC has been able to thrive for the past 38+ years. As we look forward to 2024, we
A Wonderful Evening to Benefit Beings
A Wonderful Evening to Benefit Beings Benefit Concert for KPC and Buddhist Relief Enjoyed By One and All Thank you to all who supported the Born I concert held on September 30. We are delighted to announce that we raised over $3450 for KPC and Buddhist Relief, which
Come Visit Guru Rinpoche
Come Visit Guru Rinpoche KPC has a beautiful new Guru Rinpoche statue at the entrance to the Peace Park on River Road. Everyone is welcome to visit to make prayers, meditate, and find peace. Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambhava is known as the Buddha of our time. His name, Padmasambhava,
KPC Buddhist Relief Has a New Van
KPC Buddhist Relief Has a New Van! Check out our new van! Thanks to two generous donors, we now have a vehicle equipped to handle the voluminous deliveries of food we provide our nonprofit partners! The backstory: KPC Buddhist Relief began in the wake of
Pray for Peace
Pray for Peace At Jetsunma's request, we will be doing ongoing Ridgzin Dupai Tsog pujas dedicated to pacifying the situation in Israel. Please join us in praying for peace! We are alternating this practice with the Chime Sog Tik practice dedicated to balancing Mother Earth’s elements. Below is this
Honoring All Indigenous People
Honoring All Indigenous People Today is Indigenous Peoples Day! We honor the histories, cultures, contributions, and resilience of contemporary Native peoples. KPC resides on Manahoac and Piscataway land in what is now known as Montgomery County, Maryland. May we honor and uphold this sacred land as we continue to learn
Come Enjoy a Benefit Concert This Saturday
We Still Have Tickets! Born I Benefit Concert Saturday 9/30 from 5-7pm It’s not too late to support KPC Buddhist Relief at a benefit concert Saturday, September 30 from 5 - 7 PM. The concert will be held on the front lawn of the KPC Buddhist Temple, located
Generosity, Compassion and Community
Generosity, Compassion and Community Born I Benefit Concert Saturday 9/30 from 5-7pm We would like to warmly invite you to attend a benefit concert on Saturday Sept. 30 from 5PM to 7PM to support both KPC and Buddhist Relief. Headlined by rapper and meditation teacher Ofosu Jones-Quartey aka
Have Fun and Help Others
Have Fun and Help Others Born I Benefit Concert Saturday 9/30 from 5-7pm We would like to warmly invite you to attend a benefit concert on Saturday Sept. 30 from 5PM to 7PM to support both KPC and Buddhist Relief. Headlined by rapper and meditation teacher Ofosu Jones-Quartey
Happy Birthday to H.H. Karma Kuchen Rinpoche
Happy Birthday to H.H. Karma Kuchen Rinpoche We wish His Holiness the 5th Karma Kuchen Rinpoche a very Happy Birthday! May he have a long, healthy life and may all his aspirations be accomplished! His Holiness Karma Kuchen Rinpoche was recognized by His Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche and His Holiness
How a Daily Box of Food Inspired a Food Pantry
How a Daily Box of Food Inspired a Food Pantry It Began with One Box One box of food from Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo and KPC Buddhist Relief (KPC-BR) was delivered to the Upcounty Hub without fail, every day for over a year. It would always be filled with
From Then to Now – Stunning Landscape at Guru Rinpoche Site
From Then to Now Stunning Landscape at Guru Rinpoche Site THEN It began with a beautifully made and consecrated statue of Guru Rinpoche, which has been in an area cleaned of weeds but on uneven and poorly draining dirt grounds. And then construction began
Over 1 Ton of Food Delivered to the Upcounty Hub Last Friday!
Over 1 Ton of Food Delivered to the Upcounty Hub Last Friday! With pandemic SNAP benefits no longer available and the rising cost of food, families often need to decide between paying for healthcare, or electricity, or food. No one should have to choose amongst
What’s Inside the Amitabha Stupa?
What's Inside the Amitabha Stupa? Stupa Master Tulku Sang-ngag Rinpoche led ceremonies to create the most fortuitous conditions for the building and empowerment of the Amitabha Stupa in Sedona, AZ. The first ceremony he conducted was to honor the land and its spiritual caretakers. He used a ritual text
Born I Benefit Concert at KPC – FAQs
Born I Benefit Concert at KPC - FAQs Saturday, September 30, 2023 5pm All are welcome! Join Born I for an evening of traditional Tibetan Buddhist prayer, a singing bowl sound bath meditation, and a journey through the lyrical music that focuses on spirituality and positivity. Born I
KPC Dharma Reading Group
KPC Dharma Reading Group Are you new to Tibetan Buddhism and want to learn more? You need the KPC Dharma Reading Group! From KPC's mother monastery in India via Zoom, Lopon Nidup will continue the discussion on Paltrul Rinpoche's classic, "The Words of My Perfect Teacher." The text is
The Last Push to Landscape Guru Rinpoche
Guru Rinpoche Landscaping Comes to Life! Have you seen the landscaping progress at the Guru Rinpoche site; the stunning stone work including the stone seat/wall surrounding the statue and the beautiful flagstone patio in front? Master Landscaper Paul Turska, along with other master craftsmen are carefully creating a space
Food Insecurity in Montgomery County
Food Insecurity in Montgomery County A 2022 Hunger Report conducted by the National Opinion Research Center affiliated with the University of Chicago found that in Montgomery County, MD: More than 1 in every 6 residents was food insecure. "Food insecure" refers to a person who has not
Meet KPC’s Goats Helping to Restore the Land
Meet KPC's Goats Helping to Restore the Land Meet the four young KPC Nigerian Dwarf Goats: Fay, Emma, Zena and Ringo. Spend some relaxing time in the forest with them at @KunzangPalyulCholing Come along for a few minutes, and enjoy their company. These sweet little baby goats are
Guru Rinpoche Landscaping Comes to Life!
Guru Rinpoche Landscaping Comes to Life! A week ago, Wednesday was an incredible day at the Guru Rinpoche statue. For a while, it was touch and go. Everyone came early. There were two concrete trucks with full staff, both for pumping, and also the full landscaping staff. Everyone was
We Asked, You Answered!
We Asked, You Answered! A mere 6 days ago we announced a fundraiser for one of our partners, Immigrant & Refugee Outreach Center (IROC), who added 73 new Afghan refugee families in the last 30 days. IROC gave us a list of their needs, and with your
Born I Concert – Save the Date!
Born I Concert - Save the Date! 2022 Wammie Finalist, Born-I to perform at KPC Saturday September 30th, 5pm Explore music videos by Born-I below: Unenlightened Om Mani Padme Hung (Tribute) How Many Times
Drumming for Rain!
Drumming for Rain! Join us this Tuesday at 5:30pm to drum for rain at the Guru Rinpoche statue located at the entrance to Peace Park, across the street from the temple. We will chant Tara and Mani mantra as we drum, praying for rain to ease the drought. All are
Help Us Help Them
Help Us Help Them Imagine your family being forced to flee your home and relocate to a new country due to poverty, war, famine, violence, persecution or other terrible suffering and arriving with little more than the clothes on your backs. You might not know anyone or even
Berry Picking Walk in KPC’s Peace Park
Berry Picking Walk in KPC's Peace Park Buddhist Relief is dedicated to eliminating hunger, not only through supplying food donations, but through providing educational opportunities for those interested in learning to grow and forage their own food. This can be fun! This Sunday, July 16th, bring the kids
Beginner Friendly Chicken of the Woods
Beginner Friendly Chicken of the Woods Buddhist Relief is dedicated to eliminating hunger, not only through supplying food donations, but through providing educational opportunities for those interested in learning to grow and forage their own food. With the summer season upon us in Maryland, you may see flashes of
Helping Our Neighbors in Silver Spring
Helping Our Neighbors in Silver Spring One of Buddhist Relief’s newest partners is The First Baptist Church of Silver Spring. It has a modest food pantry that serves what some refer to as the "food desert" of Montgomery County and has operated since 1983. The church hosts three
More from Buddhist Relief to the Upcounty Hub
More From Buddhist Relief to the UpCounty Hub KPC's Buddhist Relief program continues on a roll! We would love your support as we continue making a tangible and traceable impact in our communities that need it most. Friday, Megan and Sandra and
What’s Happening at KPC this Weekend?
What's Happening at KPC this Weekend? KPC’s grounds, stupa gardens, and Peace Park are open to visitors every day from dawn to dusk. Come see what's happening in the Buddhist Giving Garden, visit the Peace Park, circumambulate the stupas, or just find a bench to sit quietly. We look forward
Landscaping Guru Rinpoche Statue It’s Going to be Gorgeous!
Landscaping Guru Rinpoche Statue - It's Going to be Gorgeous! Still need $12,000 to finish Footings for the wall will be put in today. The outside green line is where the pathway will extend from the statue and where the wall will be built. Now, imagine
Retreat at Palyul USA
Retreat at Palyul USA Meditation has become an increasingly popular and effective way to promote mental and physical health, bringing profound benefits to the mind, body, and spirit. At the Palyul Retreat Center, established by His Holiness Penor Rinpoche, attendees will not only learn how to meditate, but they
Buddhist Relief is On a Roll!
Buddhist Relief is On a Roll! KPC's Buddhist Relief program is on a roll! We would love your support as we continue making a tangible and traceable impact in our communities that need it most. Jetsunma and the KPC community have been making increasingly larger connections and contributions to
Happy Summer Solstice
Happy Summer Solstice! The Summer Solstice is celebrated by many religions. In Vajrayana Buddhism, we recite the Great Perfection Prayer of Kuntuzangpo to help all beings be freed from suffering and become enlightened. As it says in the text, "During a solar or lunar eclipse, during an earthquake or
Buddhist Relief is Expanding!
Buddhist Relief is Expanding! One of many similar daily deliveries Buddhist Relief is KPC's outreach program, providing food and clothing to the community. Buddhist Relief grows fresh food almost year-round, provides education so people can grow food for themselves, and collects food and clothing for those
A lot is happening at KPC including overflowing cuteness
A lot is happening at KPC including overflowing cuteness Have you come by to visit our adorable baby goats? They are the newest addition to the feathered, furry, and friendly farm family. There are also pigs, chickens, turkey, and geese! Come visit! These and so much more is happening at
Today’s Delivery to Shepherd’s Table
Today's Delivery to Shepherd's Table On Sunday, 6-11-23, it took one SUV and an overflow car to deliver today’s food donations to Shepherd's Table: 10 turkey breasts 1 case ketchup (12 bottles) 1 case mustard (12 bottles) 1 case mayo (12 jars) 1
Today’s Harvest to the Upcounty Hub
Today's Harvest to the Upcounty Hub Thank you to the village of people who came out to help with the harvest today! There was a great flow of participation. Whenever one person had to leave, another would turn up to take their place. We cut, rinsed, stickered, bagged, put
Buddhist Relief and the Upcounty Hub
Buddhist Relief and the Upcounty Hub Monday, June 5th - the week begins: Between Jetsunma’s offerings and the things Noreen set aside from the many donations on the front porch to go to The Upcounty Hub, the rear space of the SUV was full of frozen beef, canned tuna,
KPC and a Taste of Riverworks
KPC and a Taste of Riverworks KPC is excited to participate in Saturday’s festival to showcase the opening in Poolesville, MD of a new performance center for Riverworks. Founded in 2022, Riverworks offers visual arts, music, creative writing, storytelling and connection! Saturday, June 10, between 11am-2pm, we will host
KPC to Host Plein Air Artist
KPC to Host Plein Air Artist KPC is excited to be a participant in A Taste of Riverworks, an outdoor festival happening this coming Saturday, June 10. From 11AM - 2PM, we will host plein air and studio artist Rachel Garcia-Palmer of Fairfax County, VA. Rachel loves the spontaneity of
The Totem Pole is Here!
The Totem Pole is Here! KPC welcomes a new, colorful totem pole created under the guidance and vision of Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo. If you haven’t yet seen it, it stands at 13 feet tall and is located just outside the animal yards. We warmly invite you to come visit it!
Big Things are Happening This Sagadawa Weekend At KPC
Big Things are Happening This Sagadawa Weekend at KPC This Sunday, June 4th, is a Tibetan Buddhist holiday called Saga Dawa Duchen which celebrates Shakyamuni Buddha's enlightenment. On this day, the effects of positive or negative actions are multiplied 10 million times, so it's an excellent time to engage in
Continuing Site Enhancements at the Guru Rinpoche Statue
Continuing Site Enhancements at the Guru Rinpoche Statue It’s pretty amazing to watch as Paul (from Garden Paths Landscaping) and his Kubota take down the height, and level the ground around the Guru Rinpoche Statue to bring it to the required depth of around 3 feet. This will
Buddhist Relief and Networking with Others
Buddhist Relief and Networking with Others When Buddhist Relief was first formed Jetsunma said: “Get out there. Set up visible networks. Make Buddhist Relief happen. Be seen. Be heard. We should be set up, not only as an information hub or clearinghouse online, but we should actually take phone
What’s Going On This Weekend At KPC
What's Going on This Weekend at KPC WHAT'S GOING ON THIS WEEKEND AT KPC MD? SO MUCH! Daily: 8am-8pm - Prayer Room open to visitors - masks optional 7pm - Medicine Buddha - on Facebook Live or YouTube Daily tsogs - check tara.org/pray-with-us/ for schedule Saturday: 10am - Meditation Class - in-person
Our Buddhist Relief … The Hub
Our Buddhist Relief ... The Hub Our Buddhist Relief program works closely with The Upcounty Hub in Germantown to collect and distribute the food donations and emergency and hygiene supplies to those in need. Last week, The Hub began a pilot program called “The Pantry”
A Message from Jetsunma
A Message from Jetsunma I'm thinking, in fact I'm getting a farm vehicle, like a bobcat. I don't know how I'm going to get it yet, or how I'm going to raise the funds, but we desperately need it. And then we could truck it to Dakini Valley.
Tomorrow is DoMore24!
Tomorrow is DoMore24! Guru Rinpoche is often called the Second Buddha, because the Buddha himself prophesied his coming, in this time of increasing darkness. He is said to possess the condensed essence of all the Buddhas, and truly he is here to help us! This statue came from Nepal, is
DoMore24 is Wednesday, May 17th
DoMore24 is Wednesday, May 17th Each Spring DoMore24 provides an online platform for local nonprofits to have a focused effort on annual fundraising with goal setting and a user friendly dashboard. It is sponsored by United Way of the National Capitol Area and showcases the wide variety of local
KPC Buddhist Relief-Feeding Those in Need
KPC Buddhist Relief - Feeding Those in Need Jetsunma and the KPC community have been making increasingly larger connections and contributions to local food banks and services. Buddhist Relief is an example of the many ways we can support those in need. KPC is now partnering with the Hub,
Lopon Nidup and the Dharma Reading Group
Lopon Nidup and the Dharma Reading Group Did you know that KPC has a Dharma Reading Group that meets every week? Since last October, Lopon Nidup has been discussing Patrul Rinpoche's classic text, The Words of My Perfect Teacher, supplemented by Khenpo Ngawang Pelzang's commentary, A Guide to The Words of
KPC Treating Its Own Wastewater
KPC Treating Its Own Wastewater Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC), the Buddhist Temple on River Road, has again begun treating its wastewater in an environmentally-sensitive and economically efficient way through its constructed wetlands—no more expensive pumping of septic tanks, no more stress on municipal treatment systems. Instead, they are treating their wastewater through organic
Drumming for Rain!
Drumming for Rain! Join us this Sunday at 6:30pm to drum for rain! The drum circle will be at the Guru Rinpoche statue again. We will be chanting Tara mantra as we drum, praying for abundant rain to ease the drought. All are welcome! Please bring a chair or blanket
His Eminance Yangthang Tulku Day
His Eminence Yangthang Tulku Day "Because of the Dharma, my mind was more free in prison than worldly people experience in the best of circumstances.” – Yangthang Tulku Rinpoche This month we celebrate the tenth anniversary of “His Eminence Yangthang Tulku Day”, as proclaimed by the County Executive of Montgomery County, Maryland
Prayer Room Now Open Everyday & 38th Anniversary of Prayer Vigil
Prayer Room Now Open Everyday & 38th Anniversary of Prayer Vigil Prayer Room Now Open Everyday! We are delighted to announce that our Prayer Room is now open to visitors 7 days a week from 9am-8pm. We invite everyone to come enjoy this sacred space, home of ceaseless prayer and
Drumming for Rain!
Drumming for Rain! Join us this Sunday, April 23rd, at 4pm to drum for rain! The drum circle will be at the Guru Rinpoche statue at the entrance to the Peace Park, across the street from the temple. We will be chanting Tara mantra as we drum, praying for rain
The Passing of Venerable Dhomang Gyatrul Rinpoche
Venerable Gyatrul Rinpoche in 1984, celebrating a joint Losar with Chagdud Tulku's sangha. Photo by Douglas Col The Passing of Venerable Dhomang Gyatrul Rinpoche We are saddened to share that Venerable Dhomang Gyatrul Rinpoche passed into paranirvana on April 8th, 2023 at his home in Half Moon Bay,
Giant Step Forward: The Wetlands is Functioning!
GIANT STEP FORWARD: The Wetlands Is Functioning This is a big deal for the Capital Campaign, as this system will support all the new buildings. Further, it is the ONLY functioning man-made wetlands in the State of Maryland, is very state of the art and is another example of
Site Enhancements at Guru Rinpoche
Site Enhancements at Guru Rinpoche First, Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo wished for a large Guru Rinpoche statue. Now there is a beautiful 8-foot statue crafted in Nepal, fully enthroned, empowered and seated at the entrance to the Peace Park. It’s a stunning offering to the world. Weekly practices take place there
Gaden Shartse Monks at Amitabha Stupa
Gaden Shartse Monks Visit Amitabha Stupa The Gaden Shartse Cultural Foundation ‘Sacred Earth and Healing Arts of Tibet’ Tour returned to Sedona, March 5-22, 2023. The Tibetan monks have been visiting Sedona since 1989 to spread peace, compassion and tolerance through cultural exchange, interfaith dialogue, and Buddhist teachings. Their
Medicine Buddha Online Practice
Medicine Buddha Online Practice Before he became Medicine Buddha, Bhaiṣajyaguru was following the bodhisattva path and vowed that, if he became enlightened, he would do 12 things, including bringing those living in darkness into the light; helping those who are troubled to find the Mahayana path; healing those with physical
Let’s Come Together and Practice!
Let's Come Together and Practice! From now on, Sundays at 2pm, weather permitting, we will be practicing the Rigdzin Dupa Tsog in front of the Guru Rinpoche statue at the entrance to the Peace Park. Please come! Bring a chair, your practice book and, of course, an N95 or comparable
The Meditation Challenge is Over!
The Meditation Challenge is Over The Meditation Challenge is over, but your meditation doesn't have to be! We hope that you started a new habit and will continue to find time to quiet your mind. And we are here to help - many of the resources we shared are available at
Meditation Challenge – Day 27
Welcome to Day 27 of the Meditation Challenge KPC Meditation Challenge - Video Guide Yay! You've made it this far in your meditation challenge--congratulations! How do you feel?! With all the techniques and tips you've learned throughout the month, pick your favorite and when you're ready to do your 5
Meditation Challenge – Day 24
Welcome to Day 24 of the Meditation Challenge Want group support for your meditation practice? Join our live Stabilizing the Mind meditation class to learn a profound and simple meditation. Join us every Saturday & Sunday at 10 a.m. onsite in the Prayer Room or online via webcast on Tara.org.
A Treasured Relic in the KPC Maryland Prayer Room
A Treasured Relic in the KPC Prayer Room Palyul Monastery, founded in 1665, is one of the six "mother monasteries" of the Nyingma Buddhist tradition in Tibet. Palyul's first throneholder was named Rigdzin Kunzang Sherab. His sister, Genyenma Ahkon Lhamo, spent most of her life in meditation retreat in a
Meditation Challenge – Day 21
Welcome to Day 21 of the Meditation Challenge In a teaching from the 1980s, Jetsunma taught about how the Light Expansion meditation helps one move past the feeling of separation, and begin to imitate the radiant qualities of one’s true nature: light and compassion. "Effective prayer is about imitating
KPC wishes everyone Losar Tashi Delek (Happy Losar)!
KPC wishes everyone Losar Tashi Delek (Happy Losar)! Losar is the start of the Tibetan New Year. This year Losar falls on Tuesday, February 21st. The first fifteen days of the year celebrate the fifteen successive days on which the Buddha displayed a different miracle in order to increase the
Meditation Challenge – Day 20
Welcome to Day 20 of the Meditation Challenge The KPC Meditation Challenge continues: Light Expansion Meditation Jetsunma Ahkön Lhamo's Light Expansion Prayer helps us connect to our absolute awakened nature. Before you begin, take time to set your intention: that you are doing this practice to benefit others and wish
Exciting News – Prayer Room Opens to Public
Exciting News! The Prayer Room Opens to the Public! There's good news and there's better news! First, the good news: KPC Maryland Prayer Room re-opens to the public on the weekends starting this weekend! The even better news: For the first time since 2020, the Prayer Room will be open
Meditation Challenge – Day 17
Welcome to Day 17 of the Meditation Challenge An excerpt from a profound teaching by His Holiness Penor Rinpoche to Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo Rinpoche on Tonglen Meditation, as recounted by Jetsunma: “In that case, let me teach you how to practice.” He said, “Every breath that you take, every
Meditation Challenge – Day 16
Welcome to Day 16 of the Meditation Challenge Tonglen, or the practice of "sending and receiving," is a beautiful Buddhist meditation to awaken compassion. With each in-breath, we take in others’ pain. With each out-breath, we send them relief. It helps antidote our usual avoidance of suffering and pursuit of
Meditation Challenge – Day 15
Welcome to Day 15 of the Meditation Challenge Congratulations, you've reached the halfway point of the KPC Meditation Challenge! Here is some motivation from His Holiness Penor Rinpoche to keep you going: "When we don't control the mind and just let it be free, then it starts to create
Meditation Challenge – Day 13
Welcome to Day 13 of the Meditation Challenge The KPC Meditation Challenge continues with Tonglen practice with Atira Zeoli Tonglen meditation uses the breath to give and receive, helping us to expand our compassion. In this excerpt from the Buddhism for Beginners series, Atira breaks down what that means and
Meditation Challenge – Day 10
Welcome to Day 10 of the Meditation Challenge The KPC Meditation Challenge continues! Counting Breaths with Atira Zeoli An excerpt from one of the Buddhism for Beginners series, Atira shows us how to count our breath as another way to help stabilize your mind during meditation, while practicing the 7-point
Meditation Challenge – Day 9
Welcome to Day 9 of the Meditation Challenge Have you heard we are doing a meditation challenge for the month of February? It's never too late to join! Throughout the month of February, we’ll post tips and techniques on Facebook, Instagram and here on Tara.org, designed to help you build
Meditation Challenge – Day 8
Welcome to Day 8 of the Meditation Challenge In today's video for the KPC Meditation Challenge, KPC Spiritual Director Jetsunma Ahkön Lhamo teaches about the technique of single-pointed concentration for the restless mind. Focus on an image of the Buddha, a candle or even the breath, letting the mind rest
Meditation Challenge – Day 7
Welcome to Day 7 of the Meditation Challenge How is the meditation challenge going for you so far? In this video, Atira explains the importance of posture to help calm the restless mind in meditation, using the 7 points or physical positions when you’re in your meditation room or somewhere
Kyabje Gyangkhang Rinpoche to Consecrate Chhamba and Yarjang Temples in Nepal
Kyabje Gyangkhang Khentrul Rinpoche to Consecrate Two Temples in Nepal Khenpo Pem Tsheri Sherpa, who is the resident Khenpo at KPC in Maryland, has also been hard at work building a new temple in his village in Nepal. The old one was destroyed by an earthquake a few years ago.
Meditation Challenge – Day 3
Welcome to Day 3 of the Meditation Challenge Want group support for your meditation practice? Join our live Stabilizing the Mind meditation class to learn a profound and simple meditation. Beginners and advanced practitioners are welcome. These classes are ongoing and people can start anytime. This practice is based on Jetsunma
Meditation Challenge – Day 2
Welcome to Day 2 of the Meditation Challenge "If you cannot stabilize your mind and remain undistracted in meditation, it makes no difference whether you are in an isolated place or not. One of our lamas found it too disturbing to be in crowded places, so to practice he preferred
More Bridges = More Trails for You
More Bridges = More Trails Open for You Visit the Peace Park again and check out the amazing changes! As of yesterday, thanks to John Darrin & Demitri: The bridge between the Guru Rinpoche Statue and Yellow Garden is now open to pedestrian traffic. Work
Meditation Challenge – Day 1
Welcome to Day 1 of the Meditation Challenge Meditation Tips to Get Started Meditation can be practiced by anyone, regardless of religious tradition. The following are some simple meditation techniques as explained by Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo: Posture While there are more elaborate explanations for how to hold the body, in
Meditation Challenge – Coming soon
Daily Meditation Challenge Coming Soon! Meditation is the natural state of mind when it is relaxed, stable, and open. Whether you are new to meditation or you’ve done it for years, having guidance and tools to support and deepen your practice can help make it a beneficial habit. That’s why
An Evening of Faith and Community
An Evening of Faith and Community 2023 Inauguration of Wes Moore & Aruna Miller Honoring Governor-Elect Wes Moore and Lieutenant Governor-Elect Aruna Miller Sunday, January 15, 2023 5:30-8PM Kingdom Fellowship AME Church, Calverton, Maryland The title tells it all. The Inauguration of the new Maryland Governor and Lieutenant Governor, was focused on
KPC’s Buddhism for Beginners Podcast is Reaching an International Audience
KPC’s Buddhism for Beginners Podcast is Reaching an International Audience The KPC mission is to inspire people to improve the world and end suffering for the benefit of all beings. To accomplish that goal, a podcast has been created called Buddhism for Beginners to be able to reach people around the
Helping the Homeless in Our Community
Helping the Homeless in Our Community Buddhist Relief is always looking for new ways to help those in need locally, nationally or internationally, and a new opportunity came our way this winter. The Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless (MCCH) assists the local homeless community by providing emergency
H.H. Penor Yangsi Rinpoche Birthday 12/31/2022
H.H. Penor Yangsi Rinpoche 11th Birthday - 12/31/2022 A Short Biography of Yangsi Pema Norbu Rinpoche The activities of the previous Drubwang Pema Norbu Rinpoche were boundlessly kind. His activities benefited people spiritually, but also on an ordinary level. Read about the previous Holiness Penor Rinpoche here. A manifestation of
Explosions in Kharkiv
They Still Need Us - Explosions have begun in Kharkiv, Ukraine The Ukrainian people still need us. We are told by our Sikh friends from United Sikhs that, "Ëxplosions have begun in Kharkiv. Everything will be shut down for two days with no traffic." Any amount you
Migyur Dorje Stupa Consecration
Migyur Dorje Stupa https://www.shambhala.com/snowlion_articles/migyur-dorje-stupa/ The following article is from the Spring, 1996 issue of the Snow Lion Newsletter. Some photos by freelance photographer Patsy Lynch have been added to illustrate the text. You can see the original newsletter here. Tulku Rigdzin Pema and Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo consecrating the Migyur
The KPC Peace Park is Here for You
KPC’s Peace Park is a destination for prayer, meditation and the experience of peace. KPC Peace Park offers a place for everyone. Please consider a gift to support this sanctuary Donate to KPC Year End Fundraising “This was just what I needed,” whispered the grateful gray-haired visitor who had
An Endless Stream of Blessings
An Endless Stream of Blessings From the very beginning when students first heard Jetsunma teach, before she was known as Jetsunma, they were drawn by the power of her teachings to resonate as truth. Later, when H.H. Penor Rinpoche first came to America in 1985, he authenticated her teachings
Update from United Sikhs Ukraine Relief Mission
Updates from United Sikhs Ukraine Relief Mission 11/15/2022 Thanks to your generosity, Kunzang Palyul Choling, under the guidance of H.E. Jetsunma Ahkön Lhamo, continues to send urgently needed aid to groups on the ground in the Ukraine. This has helped fund these activities.
Please Support KPC’s Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park
KPC is many things to many people, and the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park in Sedona Arizona is a very popular and fast-growing part of Jetsunma Akhon Lhamo's mandala. Amitabha Stupa in Sedona, AZ in the early morning More than 200 people a day visit the Amitabha Stupa and
Blessings for 2023
Blessings for 2023 Wrapping up Another Year in Gratitude Thank you to each and every one who has donated, volunteered, or supported in any way the beauty of what has and is being created at KPC. May your holidays and 2023 be filled with blessings. Your generosity and kindness
Lha Bab Duchen 11/15/2022
Lha Bab Duchen 11/15/2022 Lha Bab Düchen, or the 'Festival of the Descent from Heaven,' is one of the four major Buddhist holidays. It occurs on the 22nd day of the ninth Tibetan lunar month. Buddha’s mother Mayadevi died soon after the Buddha was burn and was reborn in Indra’s heaven.
Updates from United Sikhs Ukraine Relief Mission
Updates from United Sikhs Ukraine Relief Mission 10/12/2022 Thanks to your generosity, Kunzang Palyul Choling, under the guidance of Her Eminence Jetsunma Ahkön Lhamo, continues to send urgently needed aid to groups on the ground in the Ukraine. United Sikhs kindly provided video footage of their operation,
KPC Year End Fundraiser
Hello from Kunzang Palyul Choling, Please join in KPC's end of year drive. Our goal is to raise a total of $100,000 for the KPC General Fund by December 31st. So far, we have raised $95,547! Only $4,453 left in the last week to go! Thank you everyone! Donate to KPC Year
Riwo Sang Chod and Talk with Khenpo Pem -10/16/2022
Riwo Sang Practice and Talk with Khenpo Pem Tsheri Sherpa at the Guru Rinpoche Statue 10-16-2022 UPDATE! Due to rain, event will be on Sunday, 10/16/22 11am at Guru Rinpoche Statue or online. Riwo Sang Chod offering Talk by Khenpo Pem Q&A You are invited to a Smoke offering (Riwo
The Amitabha Stupa Land Preservation Project Begins
The Amitabha Stupa Land Preservation Project Begins In July, 2022 the City of Sedona awarded KPC a grant of $12,000 for repairs, improvements, mitigation work on the trails and “Leave No Trace” signage at the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park! Here is the description of the project, pretty much as it
Teachings on 37 Practices of a Bodhisattva 9/9-11/2022
37 Practices of a Bodhisattva - Teachings by Khenpo Pem Tsheri Sherpa 9/9-11/2022 Save the date – weekend of September 9th-11th 2022 One of the most famous native Tibetan texts on mind training, this classic by Tokme Zangpo summarizes the teachings of Śāntideva's Bodhicaryāvatāra and other sources, to present the path
Buggin’ Out
Buggin' Out Saturday, August 13th, 2022 from 2:00-4:00pm Insects are a fact of life in nature and especially when we are cultivating human made environments such as vegetable gardens. Sometimes it’s hard not to feel frustrated, when we encounter pesky insects eating the vegetables that we have worked so hard to
How to Harvest Seeds from Bolted Lettuce
How to Harvest Seeds from Bolted Lettuce Bolted lettuce? Collect the seeds! This video will show you how to identify when lettuce has “bolted” or gone to seed, and when to harvest the seeds. Note: Collecting seeds from hybrid plants will produce one of the parent plants. Collecting heritage seeds
Tour The New Tara.org
Welcome to KPC’s updated website – Tara.org! KPC’s Spiritual Director, H.E. Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo Rinpoche, is a Dakini. As an activity emanation of the Buddha, she adds to the traditional Buddhist practices and teachings by initiating programs and projects that address what is currently happening in the world, encouraging students to
Teachings on Guru Rinpoche 7/20-21/2022
Teachings on Guru Rinpoche 7/20-21/2022 Wednesday & Thursday, July 20-21, 2022, at 7:30 pm In honor of the Guru Rinpoche statue’s consecration, KPC is pleased to welcome Khenpo Nyima Dondrup for 2 days of teachings on Guru Rinpoche. Khenpo Nyima has been to KPC a few times in the past, dating
Plaque Honors Eleanor & Woody Rowe
Plaque Honors Eleanor & Woody Rowe H.E. Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo Rinpoche began teaching students after an invitation offered almost 40 years ago by Eleanor & Woody Rowe to come stay with them and teach what H.H. Penor Rinpoche later called, “pure Mahayana Buddhism”. Since that time, Eleanor and Woody have continued
Amitabha
Amitabha Amitabha, is referred to as the Buddha of “Infinite Light.” Through his compassionate aspirations as a Bodhisattva he vowed that upon attaining Buddhahood anyone who remembered his name or prayed to him would be reborn in his “pure realm” of Dewachen immediately after they die. From there, they could easily
BethesdaBeat – Buddhist Temple in Poolesville Unveils New Statue
BethesdaBeat - Buddhist Temple in Poolesville Unveils New Statue 2022 | NEWS Buddhist temple in Poolesville unveils new statue Dozens attend consecration ceremony for statue of Guru Rinpoche BY CHRISTINE ZHU |JUNE 15, 2022 | 1:35 PM Bethesda Magazine Dozens gathered on the grounds of Kunzang Palyul Choling, a Buddhist temple in
Press Release – Guru Rinpoche Consecration, 6-14-22
Press Release - Guru Rinpoche Statue Consecration Ceremony, 6-14-22 For Release: June 14, 2022 Contact: Shelley Sims, ssimskpc@gmail.com, 928-300-9917 Consecration of Buddhist Statue to Pacify War, near Washington D.C. In the Washington, DC region, there are hundreds of monuments to famous generals, historic battles and the glory of war. Soon
Buddhist Relief News
News from Buddhist Relief - Local and International Food Garden Spring is a dynamic time for gardening - and a great opportunity to share our gardening knowledge One of the missions of KPC's garden project is to educate others so they can grow their own food. To that end
Amitabha Stupa Platform Replacement
Amitabha Stupa Platform If you have visited the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park in Sedona to meditate, pray or to experience peace and calm, chances are you have enjoyed sitting under the shade of the meditation platform which is directly in front of the Stupa. The current wooden platform was built
They Still Need us – Help for Ukraine
They Still Need Us - Help for Ukraine “So it’s more and more difficult in Ukraine. There’s not enough food. It’s hard to get to it. So hard. I don’t even know how to ask you for more. You’ve given so much, and I’m so proud of all of you that
The Palyul Lineage And The Kapala
The Palyul Lineage and the Kapala Khenpo Pem highlights the history of this precious Palyul Lineage and Jetsunma's Kapala from the 1600’s to the present day. Whether or not you are familiar with KPC’s connection to the Palyul Lineage, this will be an introduction through the story of the Kapala,
Join the United Sikhs
Join the United Sikhs Under the guidance of Her Eminence Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo, KPC proudly supports the United Sikhs efforts to relieve the suffering of Ukrainians fleeing the violence and destruction of war. Please join the United Sikhs at the Polish border to help supply urgently needed aide to those
United Sikhs Ukraine Relief Mission
United Sikhs Ukraine Relief Mission Thanks to your generosity, Kunzang Palyul Choling, under the guidance of Her Eminence Jetsunma Ahkön Lhamo, has been able to send urgently needed aid to groups on the ground in the Ukraine. KPC was also able to provide urgently needed funds to the United Sikhs
Current Effort: Relief for Ukraine
Current Effort: Relief for Ukraine “This is so hard to watch. These beautiful, kind people. And they are good people too. We love them. I love them. You should love them. They need food and clothing. Please wake up. Please see this. It’s horrible, I know, but
KPC Annual Reports
Kunzang Palyul Choling Annual Reports KPC has produced beautiful Annual Reports, dating back to 2014. Each has a featured topic, complete with photos and stories that highlight one or more of the many activities at KPC locations. They also include the financial information that insures transparency for our wonderful supporters.
Tara
Tara is considered to be the mother of all the Buddhas, beloved for her swift compassionate activity that focuses on liberating beings from fear, anxiety, and danger. As a Bodhisattva, (and perhaps ahead of her time as a feminist) she made the vow that she would always return in female form to benefit sentient beings.
Glossary of Tibetan Buddhist Terms
Names of Buddhas, Concepts, Teachers, Terms
Recommended Tibetan Buddhist Books
Recommended Tibetan Buddhist Books These are enjoyable books we recommend about Tibetan Buddhism. They are written by recognized authentic teachers and are easily understandable even without Buddhist teaching. General Chagdud Tulku – Gates to Buddhist Practice Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche – Sadness, Love, Openness The Buddhist Path of Joy
Padmasambhava
Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, was an 8th-century Buddhist tantric master who is famous for bringing Buddhism to Tibet. Padmasambhava is an important symbol of enlightenment in the