Why Prayer Works
One of the most spiritually uplifting teachings of the Buddha is that we are not truly separate from others. Our basic hopes are the same, and at the level of our absolute, pure nature, we are inseparable. Because of this intimate connection with others and the environment, prayer works. As Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo, KPC Spiritual Director, has explained to her students, “Do your prayers go out and make magic in the celestial spheres? No. YOU change.”
Prayer Vigil
With that point of view, on April 18, 1985, Jetsunma and her students began a 24 Hour Prayer Vigil for World Peace. Continuing unbroken to the present day, the Prayer Vigil, which takes place in the Prayer Room at Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC), in Poolesville, Maryland, has become known as the “heartbeat of the temple.” Participants sign up for two-hour shifts around the clock. Vigil participants vow to continue this round-the-clock prayer activity until all beings everywhere are free from suffering. It is essentially the traditional Bodhisattva Vow in action. And because there is always someone in the KPC Prayer Room, it is always open to the general public, day and night.
Prayer Requests
If you have prayer requests, you can can send them by email or write them in the prayer book in the temple front lobby. These requests are read aloud before special ceremonies performed at KPC every day. Prayer requests on behalf of the deceased are also included in a Tibetan Buddhist practice called Phowa that is performed once a month. If you have a prayer request for someone who has recently passed away, be sure to include the person’s name and date of death. You may make similar requests for pets or other animals.
Prayer Vigil Sponsorship
Sponsoring prayer efforts is a traditional way to dedicate this constant stream of positive energy on behalf of particular people or situations. Sponsorship of the Prayer Vigil may be offered by individuals, families, or other groups. Your dedication is placed in a framed display in the front hall at KPC for the duration of your sponsorship, and the dedication is read aloud every day during prayer ceremonies. Click here to find out more.
Pa
rticipation in the Prayer Vigil
Participation in the Prayer Vigil requires commitment to training in Buddhist practice, as well as attending a Prayer Vigil orientation. However, because of the vigil, the KPC Prayer Room is open to the public 24 hours a day. Anyone who has need of spiritual refuge, or wishes to engage in quiet prayer and meditation for themselves or others, is welcome to add their positive energy to the vigil, or to simply soak it up and benefit from it.
Jetsunma’s Dedication Prayer
By this effort, may all sentient beings be free of suffering.
May their minds be filled with the nectar of virtue.
In this way, may all causes resulting in suffering be extinguished,
And only the light of compassion shine throughout all realms.
