July 23, 2024
Himalayan Children’s Fund News
Dear Friends,
The recent full moon ~ July 21, marked the beginning of the annual summer retreat for the monastic community which will conclude with the new moon on September 2. Established by the Buddha during the rainy season, it is a time for the sangha to gather, focus on study and practice, further deepening their understanding of the teachings. Vinaya scriptures and other practices are observed, such as a formal midday meal, to honor the Buddha’s guidelines and commemorate his compassion and teachings. Additionally, HH Karmapa will continue teaching the sangha every other day via zoom, as in previous years. Historically, Yarne has also been an opportunity for the lay community to deepen their connection with the sangha, to honor the teachings, practice generosity, and foster faith through making offerings such as food and new robes. The tradition continues today, and offerings can be made for Tara Abbey, VVI and/or Namo Buddha through HCF with the designation of Yarne. Enjoy the news and thank you for your kind support.
~ Debra Ann
SMD Basketball Coach
SMD MORNING ASSEMBLY
Twice a week, the school day begins with an assembly. Students line up according to their class, prayers and anthems are sung, student and staff presentations made, a few exercises done, then the school band plays and they file of to class, one after the other. Hover for video.
SMD students love to play basketball and are thrilled to have a new coach on staff who was himself an SMD’er! Tsering Thinlay Lama lives in Boudha and was born in 2002 in Humla. He attended SMD from 2005 until Class 5 when he transferred to Lovely Angel Boarding School, studying through Class 10. Tsering Thinlay has since been enrolled at The Times International College and having completed Grades 11 and 12, he is now in his third year of study toward a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work.
Tsering Thinlay began playing basketball at 14, and by the age of 16 was recruited to play professionally for the Nepal National Team (under 16 category) representing his country in the South Asian Basketball Association international competition ~ a special achievement! He continues to play at The Times Basketball Club and likes to teach the junior students as a hobby. Coaching is offered at SMD 5 days a week from 4 to 5:30 PM. Sunday and Monday for boys ~ Thursday and Friday for girls. Wednesdays are shared, 1st and 3rd boys, 2nd and 4th girls. Tsering Thinlay says he loves the kids and their excitement. “They are always ready to learn and very hard working. I guess they will win a tournament of some sort — I hope!” The students are most de tournaments.
The branch school administration building roof was recently enclosed to provide a large multi-use space equipped with wifi, a flat screen TV monitor, standing projector screen and toilet facilities. The school was in great need of a large space for meetings, exams, debates and presentations, as well as place for games and movies during holiday times. The location is closer to the monks living quarters and other monastery buildings, making it very convenient for many uses. The room will also provide much needed dormitory space during the Tsedrup and other large events. To support the branch school for monks designate: SMDBS
CONGRATULATIONS SMD GRADS
The long awaited results of the SEE government exam have arrived, allowing for a lovely graduation ceremony for the 2023/24 Class 10 students. This was the 27th class to graduate from SMD and once again they had a 100% pass rate. Nine received an A+, twenty-one received A’s, two a B+ and one a B. This is even more outstanding when observing that 52.14% of the 444,785 candidates from across the country who sat for the exams failed! SMD students work very hard and with great devotion.
Invited guests included Khenpo Ngawang Jorden PhD, Principal of the International Buddhist Academy, Dr. Mahashram Sharma, chair of the National Education Board and Mr. Bhuwan Lama, chair of Boudha municipality. Khenpo Chonyi (former SMD principal, Khenpo Samdup, and Acharya Lama Karma Sangpo, the current principal, also spoke and encouraged the students to always remember Thrangu Rinpoche’s aims and how they have benefited from his kindness. In addition to diplomas, the graduates also each received a framed photo of Thrangu Rinpoche.
FROM SMDBS
Throughout the school year, the branch school conducts Inter-house competitions in various subjects, this one was public speaking in Tibetan language.
will always accept any amount toward sponsorships and find additional sponsors to complete the full fee amount. For more information, or to arrange a sponsorship please contact HCF.
Publication of the school Newsletter, Kadrin was recently resumed. Click the photo on the left to view the first issue of Voice of Young Monks