We are happy to report on Mingyur Rinpoche’s visit to our New York Branch this past week.  Members traveled to JFK early on May 7 to welcome Rinpoche to America and escort him back to Flushing.  Rinpoche had little time to rest before the Launch of his new book In Love with the World: A Monk’s Journey Through the Bardos of Living and Dying at the Murmrr Theatre in Brooklyn.  This successful event was followed on May 9 with the following activities hosted by the Yongey Buddhist Center.

1 Welcome Rinpoche

The New York Branch members first held a Welcome Luncheon for Mingyur Rinpoche and his attendant, Lama Gyatso, his niece, Ani Kunchok Palmo, and translator, Ani Lodro.  Following the luncheon, Rinpoche accompanied the members to the home where they meet and talked to the members about the recent passing of their leader, Dorje Palmo.  Rinpoche blessed the Center and encouraged the members to continue their practice.

3 Luncheon Group

2 Welcome Luncheon

6 Center Group

4 Blessing Center

5 Talk with Members

That evening, Mingyur Rinpoche held a Book Event for his new book In Love with the World to a large crowd at the Sheraton Hotel in Flushing.  Rinpoche talked of his near-death experience and the life-changing wisdom gained while on his four-year wandering retreat.  Following the talk, Rinpoche signed books purchased by the audience.

8 Talk about Book

7 Entering Book Event

9 Evening Talk

10 Talk with Crowd

11 Book Signing

12 YBC Volunteers

The next morning, members escorted Rinpoche to LGA for his flight to Boston where his tour continues.  Eventually, on June 28, Mingyur Rinpoche will arrive at the Center in California for a weekend of activities including a Welcome Banquet and Joy of Living Workshop.