Our Centre
The Grand Opening
The Sakya Thubten Ling Tibetan Buddhist Centre was opened on May 6th, 2004 by the Venerable Lama Jamyang Lekshey.
Lama Lekshey suggested two opening ceremonies that day; a morning opening which was deemed astrologically auspicious and an eveningopening for members who had to work during the day.
At 10.30am, members gathered on the forecourt to welcome Lama Lekshey. On arrival, he blessed the entrance to the centre with prayers, vajra and bell. Flower petals were then strewn over the threshold and a kharta placed over the door handles. He then cut the red ribbon placed across the entrance and proceeded into the shrine room for prostrations, followed by the members.
As part of the ceremony, trustees from The Sakya Thubten Ling, Sakya Ling in Reading and the Tibet Culture Trust were asked to light candles placed on the shrine. All members were involved in the ceremony that followed, then after Lama Lekshey’s prayers and blessings, offerings of fruit and food were shared.
Lama Lekshey left a message for everyone that day, teaching us all to have a good attitude and create a good atmosphere for the local community.
Khenpo Lekshey
"Come here when you have time or when you are doing important things or even when you have some problems, sickness etc... and say prayers and prayer is not necessarily to read Buddhist text. Prayers you can make with your own words and with your own mind."
Come and Take a Look Inside
Many newcomers are astonished as they enter the Centre as it is so vivid and colourful yet exceptionally tranquil. The beautiful shrine at the front of the room is prepared each day with fresh flowers, food and incense.
We have plenty of chairs and cushions to sit on but please feel free to bring your own. After each session there’s tea and biscuits and an opportunity to chat with our friendly lay Buddhist volunteers who are always happy to answer any questions (no question is ever a silly one!).
Our Centre has been created for everyone to enjoy and benefit from, including non-Buddhists. So whether you come on a Saturday open day to just get away from it all, join in Wednesday evening meditation or wish to further your Buddhist studies, we welcome you all to come along and experience this wonderfully energising place for yourselves.
We Welcome Everyone
The Sakya Thubten Ling is a Tibetan Buddhist Centre in Bournemouth which is open to Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.
We provide a quiet sanctuary for holding regular meditation sessions and open days where you are free to pop in at your leisure.