Jackson Heights, Queens, New York – In a remarkable display of devotion and spiritual practice, the United Sherpa Associations Monastery hosted a three-day continuous recitation of the Amitabha Buddha mantra from June 21 to June 23. This significant event, organized by the United Sherpa Association Inc., drew thousands of members from the Himalayan community and was graced by the presence of His Eminence Sangay Rangjung Rinpoche, a highly respected Buddhist master and scholar.
The recitation aimed at promoting world peace and the well-being of all sentient beings. The chanting of the Amitabha Buddha mantra is believed to purify negative karma and guide practitioners toward achieving rebirth in the pure land of Amitabha Buddha. The profound spiritual gathering featured notable attendees such as Venerable Urgen Tulku, Dr. Yula Sherpa, Khenpo Pem Tshiri Sherpa, Lopon Gyurme Chhodrak, and other esteemed Lamas.
The event culminated on the final day with His Eminence Sangay Rangjung Rinpoche bestowing the Empowerment of Amitabha Buddha. This sacred ceremony is a significant spiritual initiation that grants practitioners blessings and permission to deeply engage with the practice of Amitabha Buddha.
About His Eminence Sangay Rangjung Rinpoche
Born in Nepal in 1960, Sangay Rangjung Rinpoche began his monastic education at the age of 7. He completed his studies at the Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery in India and holds a Khenpo degree, equivalent to a Ph.D. in Buddhist philosophy, from the Ngagyur Nyingma Institute. Rinpoche has received numerous empowerments, transmissions, and teachings from eminent Buddhist masters such as Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche, Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, and His Holiness Pema Norbu Rinpoche.
Rinpoche is the founder and president of the Ngagyur Nyingma Palyul Urgen Dorjee Chholing Monastery, Lama School, and Retreat Center in Nepal, among other Buddhist organizations. He has taught at prestigious institutions like the Ngagyur Nyingma Institute and Shechen Monastery and has authored several books on Buddhism. His tireless efforts in teaching, performing rituals, and guiding meditation retreats have earned him global recognition and respect.
Rinpoche’s achievements include receiving the Silver Medal of Honor from His Holiness the Dalai Lama for his outstanding academic performance and being enthroned as a Khenpo by His Holiness Penor Rinpoche in 1983. He continues to serve as a senior Khenpo at the Ngagyur Institute, Namdroling Palyul Monastery, and has established numerous Palyul Centers worldwide.
Legacy and Impact
Sangay Rangjung Rinpoche is celebrated for his profound spiritual attainments and his ability to connect with students across all levels. His deep understanding of the Western mind has made his teachings accessible to a global audience. His dedication to the preservation and dissemination of Buddhist teachings, particularly in the Nyingma tradition, is invaluable.
The three-day recitation event at the United Sherpa Associations Monastery not only strengthened the spiritual fabric of the Himalayan community in New York but also highlighted the enduring legacy of Sangay Rangjung Rinpoche’s teachings and leadership. As the mantras resonated through the monastery, the collective aspiration for world peace and the well-being of all sentient beings was palpably felt, leaving an indelible mark on all who participated.