The Nalandabodhi community wishes to communicate our heartfelt sadness for the victims of the earthquake that struck the Himalayan region of Nepal, Tibet, and India on April 25th 2015. The devastation has been crippling to the region, and aspirations and aid are needed for the immediate alleviation of suffering for those effected. Millions of children and adults are injured and/or homeless. We are encouraging everyone to send prayers of compassion for the people of the Himalayas.
One way to join our aspirations with action is to support a trusted organization that is providing relief to the earthquake victims. Please consider donating to one or more such organizations, a comprehensive list can be found here.
The Himalayan region is not only the birthplace of the Buddha, but has also preserved and fostered the Buddhist teachings for thousands of years. Many Buddhist communities in Nepal require funds for rebuilding their destroyed temples and residences. Since many monasteries and nunneries are aiding the local people by distributing tents, water, and food, their own resources are stretched thin while many of these monks and nuns are themselves homeless.
Many Buddhist communities are in need of structural repair, one of which is the Tek Chok Ling nunnery in Nepal, which is under the guidance of Khenchen Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche, Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche’s teacher. Contributions which can be made here will go directly toward rebuilding the nunnery and its retreat center which have been severely damaged by the earthquake. Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche is safe and currently with the Tek Chok Ling nuns in Kathmandu.
His Holiness the 17th Karmapa recently headed a global prayer gathering for the earthquake victims on May 2nd at the Riverside Church in New York City.
In his recent message concerning the earthquake, His Holiness Karmapa wrote:
“As soon as I learned of this painful and distressing situation, I made my deepest aspiration prayers and dedications for all the people affected, and continue to do so. Especially at times when we are faced with such a desperate situation, we cannot sit idle, unfeelingly. We must join forces and carry the burden of sorrow together. It is important that each one of us light the lamp of courage.”
