We have learned
that all the necessary permissions have been given to conduct Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche’s Cremation and Offering Ceremony in a traditional Tibetan Buddhist Homa, or Fire Offering Ceremony, at Rinpoche’s beloved Karme Ling Three-Year Retreat Center.
The ceremony has been set for
Sunday October 20.
The exact schedule for the day, and details about driving to and parking at our very small retreat center have not been finalized. But we want to share the date with all of KTD’s sangha and friends so they can make plans to attend.
“We encourage everyone to join us for this profound occasion,”
said Lama Karma Drodhul, KTD President.
Khenpo Rinpoche’s passing on Sunday Oct. 6 was unexpected and has caused sadness around the world, but Lama Karma said being able to offer Khenpo Rinpoche a traditional cremation and offering brings a feeling of peace and a fitting conclusion to Khenpo Rinpoche’s dharma activities in this lifetime.
The date was set this morning
after Vajra Master Lama Tobden visited Khenpo Rinpoche’s room and said that after three days, Khenpo Rinpoche was still resting in samadhi (or thukdam, in Tibetan), and that Rinpoche will be given more time to rest in meditative repose.
Events preceding the cremation will begin Thursday October 17
, after Khenpo Rinpoche completes his thukdam. After private preparation ceremonies, Khenpo Rinpoche’s Kudung (the honorative word in Tibetan for body relic), encased in a special shrine container, will be invited with ceremony into the Karme Ling Shrine Room for three days of Amitabha ceremonies and visitation.
Dharma students can come to pay their respects, offer a white blessing scarf, make good aspirations and join the chanting. They may also bring traditional offerings of flowers and incense.
The cremation and fire offering on Sunday will conclude the event.
