Lama Jampa’s Joyful Visit to Dechen LA: A Two-Week Celebration of Dharma

What an unforgettable two weeks! Lama Jampa Thaye has just wrapped up a vibrant and joyful visit to Dechen LA in Santa Monica, and we couldn’t be more grateful! Our temple was filled to the brim—more than ever before—with longtime sangha members and new friends from across California, including many from the Bodhi Path community.

A major highlight was the rare and powerful Vajrapani Bhutadamara retreat. Over three transformative days, Lama Jampa offered the complete Vajrayana transmission—wang, lung, and tri. Receiving the tri (pith instructions) for this profound Sakyapa practice directly from Lama-la was incredibly moving, and practicing the sadhana together on the third day brought a deep sense of connection and blessing.

In addition to the retreat, we were fortunate to receive two separate initiations of Chenrezik, the Buddha of compassion. Around ten people formally took refuge during these events—a beautiful reminder of the growing strength and devotion of our community. The temple was alive with energy, inspiration, and heartfelt devotion throughout.

To close the visit, Lama Jampa gave a brilliant teaching on the Sakya commentary The Key to the Profound Meaning, offering a panoramic view of the entire Mahayana path. In his parting words, he reminded us to give our whole hearts to the Dharma, even when the world feels uncertain.

And—just before heading back to the UK—he shared a very exciting announcement about a new addition to our temple… Stay tuned next week for all the details!

Lama Jampa is now back in the UK and will be teaching in Bristol this weekend. We’re already counting down the days until his return to Los Angeles this Fall.