Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Gyuto Foundation, Richmond

Way up in the hills above Richmond sits the Gyuto Foundation, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery, dedicated to preserving Tibet's cultural and spiritual heritage through teaching, hosting local University students, interfaith dialogues and cultural programs, including dharma classes and meditation sessions.  Outside:  colorfully painted arches and mural walls, a peaceful garden, elegant statues, and many prayer wheels.  Inside:  a meditation hall with a huge, lively altar structure.

The monks plan to install a total of 365 prayer wheels to surround the monastery, giving everyone an opportunity to circumambulate and turn the wheels for a walking meditation.  "If one turns the prayer wheel with positive thoughts for the benefit of others, it transforms one's mind and offers its blessings of compassion."

Statue of Quan Yin, donated in 2014


Our fellow sketcher, Chris, drawing the monastery facade from next to the largest prayer wheel.


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