End of Year Celebrations, December 2012
50 members and friends gathered on Sunday 9 December for the End of Year Celebrations, which included the annual Long Life Puja (White Tara) offered to Khenpo-la and all our Teachers so that they remain in this world and turn the wheel of Dharma for as long as possible.
The day was a beautiful blend of formal ritual and fun. The day began with the AGM, in which Khenpo-la spoke of a very successful year in spreading the precious Dharma, and looking forward to another in 2013. Then the Puja, during which time formal tea and auspicious rice offerings were made, and a mandala offering to Khenpo-la, followed by attendees making their personal offerings to Khenpo. After that it was time for student presentations: 5 generous students shared what they had learned in this year of study. It was very moving and wonderful to see how they had benefited from the teachings. Khenpo-la and the committee then thanked members and friends who had made significant contributions to the centre throughout the year.
After the formalities, it was party time, with a sumptuous BBQ and foods awaiting. During the festivities we had the T-shirt slogan competition drawn, which was very exciting, and this year won by Jack Heath our President with the slogan "Running on....Emptiness". Finally the hamper raffle draw where the winner Noel so generously donated the hamper back to the centre.
Thank you to all who came from far and wide for contributing and sharing in such a wonderful occasion.
The day was a beautiful blend of formal ritual and fun. The day began with the AGM, in which Khenpo-la spoke of a very successful year in spreading the precious Dharma, and looking forward to another in 2013. Then the Puja, during which time formal tea and auspicious rice offerings were made, and a mandala offering to Khenpo-la, followed by attendees making their personal offerings to Khenpo. After that it was time for student presentations: 5 generous students shared what they had learned in this year of study. It was very moving and wonderful to see how they had benefited from the teachings. Khenpo-la and the committee then thanked members and friends who had made significant contributions to the centre throughout the year.
After the formalities, it was party time, with a sumptuous BBQ and foods awaiting. During the festivities we had the T-shirt slogan competition drawn, which was very exciting, and this year won by Jack Heath our President with the slogan "Running on....Emptiness". Finally the hamper raffle draw where the winner Noel so generously donated the hamper back to the centre.
Thank you to all who came from far and wide for contributing and sharing in such a wonderful occasion.
