Pittsburgh is blessed to be hosting a group of amazing Gajang Tsawa monks during their World Peace tour. There are lots of fun events planned to share the message of peace, harmony and healing.
This past weekend the Tibetan monks were at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh for a Tibetan Cultural Celebration. Friday night at the Children’s Museum Pittsburgh featured a free interactive art experience for adults on Tibetan art techniques. Dr. Geshe Dorji Wangchuk demonstrated the techniques used in Thangka painting. Everyone was able to try their skills at learning the forms that each monk must master before advancing to more complicated painting. Several monks demonstrated Torma construction and made the most amazing creations from clay. Saturday and Sunday, the monks enjoyed demonstrating their skills to children and adults alike. I think everyone will agree, sand mandala art is much harder than it looks.
The music and demonstrations of Tibetan Lama ritual dancing, included personal lessons from Geshe Wangchuk and an opportunity for everyone to try.
Sunday evening with the monks included an amazing Tibetan healing ritual for all sentient beings at the Mesa Creative Arts Center. The beauty of the sunset and the majesty of the clouds, echoed the sentiments of each participant. It was an honor to be a part of such an incredible experience.
The monks will be in residence at First United Methodist Church in Shadyside all this week. Monday evening was the kick off for the week of Healing with the opening ceremony of the sacred Medicine Buddha Sand Mandala. If you’ve never seen one in person it is an unforgettable experience. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – the monks will be working on the mandala from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm, the community is invited to watch, meditate, and receive the prayers for healing throughout the week. The dissolution ceremony will be held Thursday evening. All participants will be give some sand from the mandala. On Wednesday evening, there will be a multicultural Worship Jam. Everyone is invited!!!
Everyone is welcome to attend the events, so please bring your friends and family. All events are by donation. No one is ever turned away due to lack of funds. All funds raised go directly to the monks to support their monastery in exile.
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