This morning as we entered the Temple to receive the Empowerment, eyes were drawn to the Vajrayogini Empowerment shrine where the offerings looked exquisite; an abundance of redcurrants, plump cherries, delicate petit fours and dark red flowers were laid out on satin cloth and gold lace.

Gen-la Dekyong began the ceremony by explaining that Buddha Vajrayogini is a female Enlightened Deity of Highest Yoga Tantra, a manifestation of the wisdom of all the Buddhas, whose main job is to lead everyone to Dakini Land – the state of permanent world peace and happiness. Gen la said that although we cannot see Vajrayogini directly at the moment, through our faith she will quickly guide us to behold her beautiful face and accomplish the supreme state of Buddhahood. Gen-la reminded us about the power of our wish or intention, and asked: do we wish to see Vajrayogini’s face with all our heart?

As Gen-la guided us through the empowerment, she encouraged us continually to deepen our connection with Buddha Vajrayogini and gain experience of the practice; in this way we will increase our wisdom and compassion and draw closer to the state of Buddhahood ourselves.

In the Question and Answer session in the afternoon, Kadam Morten emphasised how we can share the benefit of our practice of these precious and profound teachings with others as our practice naturally manifests as loving kindness so we show an example of leading a happy and pure life.

Just as the adults are learning about loving kindness in the Temple, this year there are over 200 children sharing this experience, learning and enjoying together at the Festival. Their delight at being in such a beautiful and impressive setting is obvious, singing and laughing as they walk around the Priory. Hearing the sound of their laughter it’s easy to feel that this really is a pure land!

View the full 2015 Summer Festival Galleries

View videos from the festival