The Sakya Thubten Ling Tibetan Buddhist Centre was opened on May 6th 2004 by the Venerable Lama Jamyang Lekshey.
Lama Lekshey had suggested two opening ceremonies that day: a morning time which was deemed auspicious astrologically; and an evening opening for members who had had to work during the day.
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At 10.30 in the morning, members gathered outside on the forecourt to welcome Lama Lekshey. On arrival, Lama Lekshey first blessed the Entrance to the centre with prayers, vajra & bell. Flower petals were strewn over the threshold and a kharta placed over the door handles. He then cut the red ribbon placed across the entrance and proceeded into the shrine room for prostrations, followed by the members. |
As part of the ceremony, Trustees from the Sakya Thubten Ling, Sakya Ling in Reading and the Tibet Culture Trust were asked to light candles placed on the shrine. All members were involved in the ceremony that followed afterwards, then, after Lama Lekshey’s prayers and blessings, offerings of fruit & food were shared. Lama Lekshey then talked about the real existence of the Centre and spent time talking to members.
Another ceremony took place in the evening called a ‘Tok’, with many more members sharing food and tea and taking the opportunity to listen and talk to Lama Lekshey.
Lama Lekshey left a message for all members of the Sakya Thubten Ling that day, teaching us to have a good attitude and create a good atmosphere for the area and the local community.
In his final teaching on Wednesday 12th May, he blessed us to introduce basic Buddhist teachings – but the most important thing was to be like a family, to care for each other mentally and spiritually, to be patient. Lama wished us all success and good health, and to be free from obscurations and fear.
There has been an excellent start to the programmes, many newcomers have already joined Sakya Thubten Ling members for our weekly meditations and talks, some new to Buddhism, others who already know a great deal.