On March 5th 2011, the beginning of the Iron Rabbit Year, in Queens, New York, the North America Gelug Buddhist Association celebrated Losar and its inauguration with its members. We are pleased, honored and humbled by the enthusiasm, suppo...rt, strength and unity of the pure Gelug practitioner.
The Losar celebration and the Inauguration of the Association was lead by Zawa Tulku Rinpoche, other Rinpoches, Geshes and Venerable sangha.
Lama Chopa , Dorge Shugden smoke prayer & Golden Tea offering was performed. Members later gathered outside the building. A traditional Sangso filled the sky with cloud liked Tsampa, while members offered one another words of good wishes, success and prosperity for the upcoming new year.
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was simple, dignified yet profound. Zawa Tulku Rinpoche, other Rinpoches, Geshes and sangha cut the ribbon, proclaiming freedom from all bondage, samsaric and beyond. Auspicious words were chanted. The room was echoed with praised to Je Tsongkapa, commitment to spread the pure linage, request for the long life of linage masters, and dedication to benefit all sentient beings.
Later part of the day, the unity and determination of the members were again evident. Delicious lunch and dinner, all carefully shopped & prepared by members, all efforts were tokens of love and devotion.
In the evening, a traditional Tibetan dance (again rehearsed for months by members) showed off their talents, while members spontaneously joined in with songs, dances & other entertainments. The memories of the “OLD TIBET” were vivid and alive.
On the second day, an administrative meeting was held. President Lobsang Dorgee extended his welcome to all; Secretary Ahdar reviewed mission statement and By-laws.
Zawa Tulku Rinpoche unveiled the brand new website which is in three languages, inclusive of Tibetan, English and Chinese. Senior members generously gave their creative and valid suggestions as how to best utilize the web site. The goal is to keep members informed, united,and to best preserve the linage. Zawa Tulku Rinpoche emphasis the need to do dharma practice and request teachings from the masters.
In closing, we also want to thank Shar Gaden Monastery, Serpom Monastery, Phegye Ling, Samten Choling Segyu Monastery & others in joining us in prayers , wishing all Gelug practitioners , all Dharma practitioners and all sentient beings be free from suffering, causes of suffering ,attain happiness and true joy.
( from Chatring Rinpoche's facebook post )