The special connection that His Eminence the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche Lodro Chokyi Senge had with Montréal began in 1976 when he accompanied the 16th Karmapa Ranjung Rigpe Dorje on a visit there. It was then that His Eminence began touching the hearts and minds of so many budding and experienced practitioners. After the 16th Karmapa passed away in 1981, His Eminence continued to visit Montréal regularly, offering teachings, empowerments and blessings to a growing number of Dharma students.

RIGPE DORJE CENTRE (Montréal) was founded in 1987 as the first of many centres to be established by H. E. the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche in North America, Asia, Europe and Africa. His vision was to provide an environment for the study and practice of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly in the Karma Kagyu tradition.

He also established the RIGPE DORJE FOUNDATION (Canada) as part of a network of international organizations to address the gaps in social, educational and medical development for the needy of all ages in India, Nepal and Tibet. Supporters from across Canada were inspired by His Eminence’s qualities of loving kindness and deep concern for the well-being of others—and continue to aspire to make the community service of his projects effective with donations and sponsorships.

Rigpe Dorje Foundation (RDF) Is a Canadian charitable organization officially registered with the Department of National Revenue, #119119923RRR0001 and is part of an international network of foundations founded by His Eminence the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche in the mid-eighties. RDF currently operates under the guidance and inspiration of His Eminence The 4th Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche and his General Secretary Tenzin Dorjee.

All donations to the Rigpe Dorje Foundation for support of social, educational and health projects in the Himalayan region, as well as donations to support the Rigpe Dorje Centre (Montréal) are tax-deductible.