After more than two years, the retreat center construction is nearing completion. The east and south wings are finished, with the exception of a final cleaning, painting and some light finish work.

There are two reasons for the pace of construction being a bit slower than planned. First is that the gompa had to be redesigned to accomodate proper quarters for our teacher, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche. There was no space designated for Rinpoche in the original plans. This was due to the characteristic humility of our precious lama: he simply made no provision for himself.

Second was a reinforcement of the Gompa second story and ceiling/roof. The Gompa is going to be light and airy with a wonderful sense of space and will accomodate a large group of students for public audiences and teachings.

The remainder of construction is focused on the main shrine or Gompa as well as the kitchen and dining hall underneath. The estimate of the masons on finish construction is 2 to 3 months, depending on how soon monsoon begins and its severity.

After this, there will be perhaps a month or two of finish work, and the entire facility will be ready.

We are blessed to have this wonderful facility in this holy place and may it benefit all beings!

-Ven. Thomas Gutherie, April 29, 2006