In November we had the pleasure of hosting Tenzin Gyurmey Rinpoche’s (Tengyur Rinpoche for short) first ever visit to Sweden. It was wonderful with many people being very generous and contributing to the success of the visit in many ways. So much happened in just a few days.
Rinpoche first visited Ransta, Västeras and gave a teaching at the study group, Tsog Nyi Ling. Thanks to Gun who hosted Rinpoche. Back in Stockholm Rinpoche addressed the Universal Ethics in Action group on the topic of secular ethics and interfaith dialogue and the Discovering Buddhism Group on the topic of a daily practice. Both very inspiring talks.
The following day Rinpoche visited a School, the Nobel Museum and the Dromtonpa Center. Many thanks to Bertil Jarl and Johan Böhm. In the evening Rinpoche introduced Buddhism through the life story and teachings of Lama Tsongkhapa whose 600 year anniversary we celebrate this year.
The following day, thanks to David Johansson, Rinpoche was invited by the curator of the Ethnographic Museum to view and advise on Sven Hedin collection of Tibetan Buddhist art, texts and statues. This is only the beginning of a long association to help the museum correctly identify and translate these treasures.
After this Rinpoche was invited to meet the Cardinal of the Swedish Catholic Church, where they both expressed their interest in interfaith dialogue.
Our Director Martin interviewed Rinpoche and this will soon be available in our Youtube channel (go there and click “Subscribe” to be sure not to miss the video when it’s posted). Rinpoche was relaxed and happy and when asked him if he wanted a rest from answering questions, he replied that no, this was relaxing for him.
Rinpoche gave the center a marvellous Torma Mandala set which is used to offer mandala to visiting Lamas. At the conclusion of the teachings he gave everyone incense and malas.
We hope Rinpoche returns soon to Sweden. We would like to thank Zarina for organizing the whole visit so well, Henrik for all the delicious food he cooked, and to the staff and volunteers who supported the visit.