Lama Tsongkhapa Day
with Venerable George Churinoff
Lama Tsongkhapa Day is the celebration of Lama Tsongkhapa’s parinirvana, when he passed away and left his earthly body. This auspicious occasion falls on December 7, 2023.
Je Tsongkhapa (1357–1419) is the founder of our lineage, the Gelug tradition. A great reformer of Buddhist doctrine, Tsongkhapa clarified the texts and composed a number of treatises, among which are several lamrim works setting out the complete path to enlightenment.
Ven. George Churinoff will lead us in the meritorious practice of Lama Chöpa and explain the significance of this celebration. Practicing together vastly increases the positive energy generated. Together we will dedicate these practices to achieving the same realizations as Lama Tsongkhapa: attaining full awakening so that we can be of the best possible benefit to all sentient beings.
We encourage you to make a special offering on your altar, especially light offerings (electric lights, candles, etc.), which are recommended by Lama Zopa Rinpoche. During our virtual celebration, you can visually share your light offerings and rejoice in the collective merits.
Additional Materials
Lama Chopa-Guru Puja (PDF)
Recording
2021 recording:
About the Teacher
A physics graduate from MIT, Venerable George Churinoff earned a Masters degree in Buddhist studies from Delhi University, India. He took ordination in 1975 and studied the Geshe Studies Program at Manjushri Institute, England, where he also served as Spiritual Program Coordinator. Venerable George was instrumental in founding the FPMT Masters Program at Istituto Lama Tzong Khapa in Italy, where he also served as Program Coordinator. After studying and teaching there for eight years he spent several years at Tushita Centre in Delhi, followed by three years as Lama Osel Rinpoche’s English curriculum tutor at Sera Je Monastery in South India.
Venerable George has done many retreats in the sutra and tantra traditions and taught extensively in FPMT centers all over the world. He taught the FPMT Basic Program as resident teacher at Dorje Chang Institute, New Zealand and at Land of Medicine Buddha, USA. Venerable George now resides in Asheville, NC and has recently completed a 3-year retreat.
