This weekend people from all over the southwest USA gathered at KMC Texas for the Southwest Dharma Celebration with Gen Kelsang Rigpa, the Western US National Spiritual Director.

Gen Rigpa granted the empowerment of Dorje Shugden and explained how to rely on this precious Dharma Protector in thought and action in dependence upon a simple daily Heart Jewel practice.

Enjoy these beautiful photographs of the event.

The weekend began on the Friday evening with an introductory talk by Kadam Lucy James the Resident Teacher atf Kadampa Meditation Center Colorado, and then on the Saturday morning Gen Kelsang Menla, the Resident Teacher at KMC Texas, led a meditation to prepare for receiving the inspiring blessings of Buddha Dorje Shugden.

Saturday afternoon Gen Rigpa granted the blessing empowerment of Dorje Shugden. During the empowerment he explained who Dorje Shugden is and how to rely upon him for wisdom and spiritual protection in thought and action.

For the first time, the event offered simultaneous translation for the Spanish speaking community with Gen Shima, Resident Teacher at KMC Monterrey, Mexico.

What people are saying
'I feel that the Dharma Celebrations are like very accessible mini-festivals where we have the opportunity to reconnect with our own and others' spiritual potentials. We can listen to contemplate, and meditate on Buddha's teachings with the sangha from our region and we can begin to see what world peace will look like. Everyone comes to the Dharma Celebrations with a kind heart and a wish to help others.,
Kelly Durst, KMC New Mexico

Participating centers
The following centers participated in the Southwest Dharma Celebration:

IKRC Grand Canyon: www.meditationinnorthernarizona.com
KMC Arizona: www.meditationintucson.org
KMC Austin: www.meditationinaustin.org
KMC Colorada: meditationincolorado.org
KMC Houston: meditationinhouston.org
KMC Phoenix: www.meditationinarizona.org
KMC Texas: www.meditationintexas.org
Heruka KBC: www.meditateinfortcollins.org