Teachers
Venerable Lama Assi
To practice Buddhism we need guidance and inspiration. We cooperate in bringing Venerable Lama Assi and other highly regarded Buddhist teachers to Christchurch to give individual, group and public teachings, lead retreats and other activities. Regular contact with authentic teachers ensures our intentions and actions as a group and as individuals remain true to the essence of the Buddha's teachings.
Lama Assi
Venerable Lama Assi is an accomplished teacher (Lama) of Vajrayana Buddhism with 40 years experience in guiding students on the path to enlightenment. In 1968 Ven. Lama Assi completed the traditional 3 year, 3 month, 3 week retreat under the guidance of the senior meditation master of the Kagyu Lineage, His Eminence Kalu Rinpoche. Since then Ven. Lama Assi has devoted himself to the practice of Buddhism and the welfare of others.
We feel blessed to have found a teacher of such excellent calibre to lead us on a valid, tested path towards ultimate liberation. Lama Assi is the perfect example of what we are aspiring to be - humble, strong, steadfast, kind, patient, ever mindful, pure in intension, and unfailing in his practice of the Buddhist path. We have plenty of opportunity for group and individual interaction with him, an experience that confronts you with yourself and from which, if we are open to it, we can benefit enormously.
Ven. Lama Assi visits New Zealand annually, spending most of his time in Christchurch and Nelson. When in Nepal he resides at Tegchen Lekshey Ling, a Buddhist nunnery in Bodhnath Kathmandu. He is responsible for the smooth running of the nunnery and the well-being of the residents and guides the practitioners in retreat.
Ani Sanjay
We are also fortunate enough to have an ordained nun, Ani Sanjay, who participates in our activities and shares her experience. She has been studying Buddhism for over 30 years and has received teachings from many well-known Buddhist teachers.
Other Teachers
We are also committed to bringing other respected Buddhist teachers to Christchurch. We have hosted Ven. Lama Pasang from Karma Choeling Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Auckland, and plan to host him again in future. We have also hosted Khandro Thrinlay Chodon and hope she will visit again soon. We plan to host Traleg Kyabgon Rinpoche at some stage.