FPMT Australia Ltd

Again this year, the IMI community of monks and nuns will offer recitations and prayers, including the Sutra of Golden Light as part of International Sangha Day on July 25th, 2009 and our ongoing dedication to keeping the Buddha's teachings alive, and inspiring others with values of ethical behavior, tolerance, compassion and wisdom.

"With realization of one's own potential and self-confidence in one's ability, one can build a better world." - His Holiness Dalai Lama

During these difficult times all of us are facing complex and turbulent challenges that can be overwhelming.  Often we are unsure of what we can do.  This situation is not lost on our worldwide community of nuns and monks of International Mahayana Institute (IMI), as we strive to contribute to world peace and individual spiritual growth.

Our spiritual leader, Lama Zopa Rinpoche has specifically recommended the recitation of the "Sutra of Golden Light" to help all of us develop the qualities of loving kindness and compassion in the face of these increasingly difficult and violent times.

Reciting the Sutra of Golden Light effects real change to benefit real beings. Lama Zopa Rinpoche says:

"Acts of terrorism will be averted. Acts of violence will stop. China will return to Buddhism and will relax its hold on Tibet. Natural catastrophes will be avoided. Crops will be successful. The environment will be clean. People will be safe. If there is war, it will end and there will be peace."

We invite you to join with us.

Here are three ways you can participate and benefit from Lama Zopa Riponche's advice:

• Participate in the recitation of the Sutra of Golden Light. Pledge online to recite from Sakadawa, June 7 celebrating Buddha's enlightenment to International Sangha Day, or Wheel Turning Day celebrating Buddha's first teaching on July 25th.
• Make dedications for family, friends and loved ones. Dedications will be made on Wheel Turning Day, July 25th.
• Offer financial support to help provide for the basic needs of the monastic community.

Visit our website, www.joinprayersforpeace.org   to find all the information you need to join with the nuns and monks of IMI in the 2009 International Sangha Day Prayers for World Peace and the recitation of the "Sutra of Golden Light.