Geshe Thupten Phelgye

Once again, the Venerable Geshe Thupten Phelgye will be visiting Pine Island.

Beginning Monday, Aug. 31, Geche la will be at the Pine Island Buddhist Center. The schedule is Monday Friday, teachings, 6-8 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 5, Sangha from noon 4 p.m. (vegetarian pot lunch).

Geshe la has been a global scholar in residence for the last two years at Eastern Washington University. Previously he was a global scholar in residence at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wash.

For two years. Geshe la received his Geshe degree at Sera Monastic University in Southern India. He then did advanced tantric studies which were followed by five years in solitary retreat in a hut in the mountains above Dharamsala.

His retreat was guided by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The retreat was followed by two five-year terms as a parliament member in the Tibetan government in exile, in Dharamsala, India.

Since that time, Geshe la has traveled all over the world sharing Dharma teachings. He has taught in many U.S. universities, colleges, Dharma centers and churches. His excellent English, his deep understanding of Dharma, his jolly laugh and sense of humor make him very accessible to American audiences.

For the last 10 years, Geshe la has gathered many students and friends in the Grass Valley, Nevada City, Sacramento and Pine Island areas.

The website for the Universal Compassion Foundation is www.universalcompassion.org

The Pine Island Buddhist Center is at 6715 Rockaway Drive, in Bokeelia. Contact Gary Pierson at 239-282-5652.