Vancouver Islands Interest Grows in Buddhism

Vancouver, Canada (CHAKRA) – As more people are becoming spiritual and looking for inward happiness, they are turning towards Buddhism, especially in the central part of Vancouver Island, according to the President of Kathok Gonpa society in Coombs.

However, Penny Mcguire predicts that the people who will attend Tibetan Buddhist Monk Changling Rinpoche’s talk at the Coombs Temple this month will be new attendees who are looking to learn more about Buddhism and its practices rather than strict followers of Buddhism.

On his visit he will be talking about creating and sustaining a happy community in which all can live in peace and harmony.  He has led talks in the past in United States, Canada, Great Britain while making regular visits to Coombs for the last five years.

There has been an increase of about 50% in the level of attendees to the Buddhist temples in Coombs.

Mcguire said, “There is more of a trend toward looking inward for satisfaction and happiness rather than outward.”

In July, the first traditional Buddhist monastery in Canada was opened in Richmond.  This Thrangu monastery is the first of its kind outside of Asia and will be home to seven monks and lamas

According to the Statistics Canada Census there are about 905 identified Buddhists living in the Regional District of Nanaimo.

On August 10^th at 7pm, Changling Rinpoche will be speaking at the Tibetan temple in Coombs to inspire curious learners towards teachings of peace based on spirituality.

The talk will be held for free while donations will be appreciated.  Mcguire stated that Changling Rinpoche is fluent in English so many people will be able to benefit from his talks.

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