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Senior sangha members Sharon and James Hoagland have graciously offered a generous matching gift in support of the Rinchen Terdzo. They will match dollar-for-dollar the first $35,000 raised from today until the end of the Rinchen Terdzo, in mid-February.
Traditionally, the organizational sponsor, Shambhala, covers the cost of feeding the monks and villagers in attendance. Two and one half months worth of rice, veggies, dal, spices, Tibetan tea, propane, and firewood for 300 people is $52,000. To-date we have gathered 80% of this from our Shambhala Centers and from individuals inspired to give prior to this dollar-for-dollar match.
Additionally, at the end of the Rinchen Terdzo, the Sakyong and the Sakyong Wangmo will offer a gift to His Eminence and keynote tulkus. At that time, your dollar will become a gift for the khenpos, loppons, umdzes, chopons, monastery administrators, and kitchen staff living and working in primitive conditions.
If we meet the Hoaglands' offer, the combined amount of $70,000 is almost enough to cover the gifts as well as the travel and household expenses of the Kalapa Court.
The Hoaglands' pledge is above and beyond what they themselves might normally feel able to give. Their offering is not an invitation to move away from other commitments, cancel dues, or rethink our annual Shambhala Day gifts.
The average daily cost for this historic event is $1,400 (all inclusive!). Please consider sponsoring a day, more days, or any fraction of this magical moment. |
