For many years, we have marked Losar with Mahakala practice of protection, accompanied by a large food offering and much celebration in the center’s sanctuary. The practice clears obstacles of the past year, and thus makes way for a fresh start in the new year.

This year, we will mark the turning of the lunar year by having new prayer flags placed near the center. In addition, we invite sangha members, their families and especially children to come, do kora (circumambulation of the center, in masks and at safe distances), and spin the prayer wheels. This circumambulation will be accompanied by the sound of the Lamas chanting the Mahakala meditation, which will be audible via outdoor sound system beginning at 12:50 pm. Afterwards, the Lamas will join in kora around the center.

Those who attend will receive gifts for the season: a small prayer flag, a card with the Metta Sutta of loving kindness, and a CD of Tibetan chants of compassion.

All are encouraged to bring nonperishable foods to benefit the Maslow Project* as a way to plant the seed of generosity and beneficial action for the new year.

And for those not attending in person, the Mahakala meditation will be available on Zoom. Please look for the link in the February 2021 Online Teachings e-sangha announcement. If you wish to receive this announcement, please contact office@kscashland.org.

Let us safely gather to celebrate a new year!

*The Maslow Project serves families experiencing homelessness in Jackson and Josephine counties. They provided food, basic supplies and case management to nearly 3,000 families in 2019 – 2020. The average age of their clients is 11 years old.  Foods particularly requested are those that can be prepared without a can opener, such as pop-top meals, tuna pouches, microwavable meals, peanut butter and crackers.