July 28, 2026
Himalayan Children’s Fund News Dear Friends, Even though it is quite warm and muggy in Nepal, and hot in India, the schools and monasteries are carrying on as usual and there are many stories to share. Young nuns in Nepal and monks in India have enjoyed some summer fun activities, while the shedra monks are are just nishing a week retreat at Namo Buddha. SMD students had a spelling competition (in three languages) and graduation was just held for the 2nd batch of our Grade 12 students. Please enjoy the news and, if you can, give HCF a wonderful review on: Great NonPro ts. Thank you for your kind support.
~ Debra Ann
Young nuns had a great time at Whoopee Land!
SMD GRADE 12 GRADUATION On July 24, the second class of Grade 12 students graduated at SMD. The students gave it their all and achieved very high marks. Chöje Lama and Tulku Damchö helped to hand out diplomas and younger students performed cultural dances in honor of the grads. Congratulations and best life wishes to all! Hover for video.
YARNE The annual summer rains retreat (Yarne) for monastics this year runs from July 29 to September 11. This is a time for monastics to gather together for a period of study and practice to deepen not only their understanding of the teachings but also to preserve and propagate the monastic traditions taught by the Buddha. Every day during the rains retreat, the sangha recites the Three Daily Practices and takes a formal midday meal following the regimen described in the Vinaya scriptures. They take great care to follow the guidelines for monastic life the Buddha established as a way to remember the Buddha's great kindness. During the time of the Buddha, the retreat was also considered as an opportunity for the lay community to further their own practice and deepen their connection to the sangha. Lay people would offer food to the Sangha during the retreat and give the monks and nuns new robes at its end. These days as well, it is a chance for people to practice generosity by making offerings to the Sangha. Offerings can be made through HCF by check or online designate: Yarne, and either Tara Abbey, Namo Buddha or VVI. Torma Preparations for retreat at VVI.
Hover for video.
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Himalayan Children’s Fund P. O. Box 15644, Beverly Hills, CA 90209 USA 310.395.6616 himalayanchildrensfund.org