What We Do

The people of Jhamtse International learn and practice the principles of love, compassion and wisdom in their daily lives. In the words of Venerable Lobsang Phuntsok, the spiritual director of Jhamtse International and the Jhamtse Buddhist Center, "We are all learning and working to become better human beings as we help others with love and compassion."

Learning begins with weekly programs, regular workshops, retreats, and other educational activities of the Jhamtse Buddhist Center. People of all backgrounds, experience levels, and ages come to learn from Venerable Lobsang and from one another in their study and practice of the principles of Buddhist thought. Through examination of the words of Buddhist teachers, through meditation, and in other activities of Buddhist practice, members of the sanghas, or communities of the Jhamtse Buddhist Center gain greater understanding to apply to the situations and circumstances of everyday life.

Because the people of Jhamtse International are aware that love, compassion and wisdom are the foundation of lasting peace and happiness, and that these qualities offer powerful and effective responses to global poverty, injustice, violence, and other global challenges, Jhamtse Gatsal has become a primary focus of the organization. Jhamtse Gatsal is a residential educational community for children in the remote Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh, India, close to the borders of Tibet and Bhutan. This community opened its doors in August 2006 with three teachers, two housemothers, and 35 children. The dream of two Buddhist monks, Sherap Lama and Lobsang Phuntsok, Jhamtse Gatsal is proving that education based on love, compassion, and wisdom nurtures and supports children who otherwise would have no hope for a future.

Meanwhile, in the United States and in Canada, Jhamtse Clubs are forming to help students of all ages embrace the principles that guide Jhamtse International. These young people are learning and growing together across borders, contributing to make their world a better place.

Jhamtse International is an organization of volunteers, supported and sustained by those who participate in a variety of activities, and by generous donors. We invite you to learn more about Jhamtse International, choose to take part in its programs, and contribute to its efforts. Please contact us today to learn how you can become involved whith Jhamtse International.

Jhamtse International is a non-profit organization and your contributions are tax deductible under US tax regulations.