General Spiritual Director
Day 8 ~ Heruka Preparations
Aug 1, 2026
Empowerments in the UK and the US
In December, Kadampa communities in the UK and the US hosted blessing empowerments of Je Tsongkhapa, Medicine Buddha, Buddha Shakyamuni, and Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara. With thoughtful preparation, these special ceremonies welcomed participants to receive blessings and deepen their spiritual connection with Buddha through meditation and meaningful teachings.
Je Tsongkhapa at KMC Birmingham
At the beginning of December, dedicated students from Kadampa Meditation Centre Birmingham prepared the Centre for the special Heart Jewel event on December 14th.
Many gathered for the blessing empowerment of Je Tsongkhapa and Guru Sumati Buddha Heruka, bestowed by our Resident Teacher Gen Leksang, who explained how Je Tsongkhapa’s blessings help us develop profound spiritual qualities.
Following the empowerment, students enjoyed reconnecting and sharing. In the afternoon, they received a transmission of Venerable Geshe-la’s teachings on the Heart Jewel practice and engaged in it together. On December 15th, a smaller group participated in a Heart Jewel retreat. They recited the Migtsema prayer, meditated on reliance, and engaged in Guru yoga, deepening their connection with Je Tsongkhapa.
The event concluded with installing Je Tsongkhapa and Sons statues on the shrine, marking a meaningful and blessed weekend for the KMC Birmingham community.
Medicine Buddha visiting KMC Austin
In December, Resident Teacher Noreen Flack granted the empowerment of Medicine Buddha in Austin, Texas (USA). Attendees learned about the profound healing practice of Medicine Buddha, discovering how relying sincerely on this Buddha can cure both physical and mental suffering during these challenging times.
The event deepened participants' spiritual connection with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche through these precious teachings on healing and inner peace.
Buddha Shakyamuni at Odiyana KBC
On December 7th, Odiyana KBC in Hartford, Connecticut (USA) held a special Buddha Shakyamuni empowerment granted by Resident Teacher Matthew Stein. The day was filled with loving energy and meaningful teachings, leaving everyone inspired and grateful. Participants departed with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to apply Buddha's teachings for the benefit of their community and the world
Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara in New York
In early December, the KMC New York City community gathered for the empowerment of Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara, granted by our Resident Teacher Kadam Morten. He explained that we all have the potential for enlightenment within us. Through contemplating and meditating on Buddha’s teachings, we naturally awaken our Buddha nature, enabling us to help all living beings find freedom from suffering and lasting happiness. How truly extraordinary!
