Under the spiritual guidance of H. E. the 4th Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche

“Throughout the ages, practitioners of the Dharma have engaged in meditation and study, both of which are necessary to attain the ultimate fulfillment of enlightenment. Like all other religious paths, Buddhism aims to help us find true peace and happiness. Many who search for real happiness cannot find it in material gain or ownership. Real, unchanging peace and happiness exist within ourselves and can only be realized through subtle intellectual inquiry and meditation.” H. E. the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche

RIGPE DORJE CENTRE (Montreal) was founded in 1987 as the first of many centres to be established by H. E. the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche Lodro Chokyi Senge (Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche lineage) 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.

The special connection that His Eminence had with Montreal 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 Montreal regularly, offering teachings, empowerments and blessings to a growing number of Dharma students.

He also established 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 Centre operates under the auspices of the Foundation. The genesis of the Centre in the mid-eighties was a small, informal study group under His Eminence’s guidance. Eventually this group evolved into a more formal setting with opportunities for others to benefit from his clear wisdom and understanding of Dharma.

Beginning in the 19th century with renowned Tibetan Buddhist scholar, writer and teacher, Jamgon Kongtrul Lodro Thaye, the lineage of the Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoches has contributed significantly to the flourishing of the Buddha’s teachings. H. E. the 3rd Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche, founder of Rigpe Dorje Centre, was a genuine Buddhist master in activity and conduct – and one of the four heart sons of the 16th Karmapa Ranjung Rigpe Dorje, Supreme Head of the Karma Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism.

A strong karmic bond between the Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoches and the Gyalwa Karmapas goes back through generations, and His Eminence’s devotion to the 16th Karmapa as the source of all paths and practice is a perfect illustration of the Guru-Disciple relationship. It is auspicious therefore that His Eminence chose to name Rigpe Dorje Foundation and Centre after his Root Teacher.

Although His Eminence passed away in 1992, his spiritual and humanitarian activities continue to evolve. Indeed, H. E. Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche, Lodro Chokyi Nyima, although still young, manifests glorious qualities of enlightened wisdom and compassion. And the strong bond between him and H. H. the 17th Karmapa Urgyen Trinley Dorje is as exemplary a lesson in devotion as in previous incarnations.

Rigpe Dorje Centre operates under the direction of H. E .Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche and his Labrang (administration) at Pullahari Monastery in Nepal. The Centre’s weekly program is guided by resident lamas and includes teachings, instructions and practice. Visiting teachers supplement the regular schedule with seminars and retreats. Centre activities are in Tibetan, English and French.