The Maitreya Center is meant to inspire compassion and peace, which is especially important in these difficult times. Maitreya, the next buddha, is renowned for his loving compassion towards all beings. In fact, the name Maitreya means loving-kindness—impartial, great compassion for all. Similarly, when we cultivate love and compassion within our own hearts and minds, it will bring peace to the country and create the stability for the Dharma to flourish.
As disciples of Dorje Chang Kalu Rinpoche, we have a deep spiritual bond with Chamgon Kenting Tai Situpa, the direct emanation of Buddha Maitreya and the main teacher to His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa. Tai Situ Rinpoche is the spiritual master of two major Buddhist institutions—Palpung Monastery in Tibet and Palpung Sherab Ling in India—each of which house a Maitreya statue in the monastery’s shrine hall. Kalu Rinpoche, who is the source of KTC Monastery’s traditions and practices, received his training under the guidance of the previous Tai Situ Rinpoche at Palpung Monastery.
Both Tai Situ Rinpoche and Kalu Rinpoche have said that dedicating a shrine to the future Buddha Maitreya in America will greatly benefit the country and its people. It is through the offering of Dharma that we create the conditions for sentient beings to connect with the Buddha’s teachings and awaken to their true nature, which is no different than the Buddha.
Thank you so much for your support in establishing the Maitreya Center.