Greetings Mipham Shedra Students and Supporters,

As we enter this new year, we are encouraged by the resolution of Lhoppon-la's immigration and residency issues.  The end of this long chapter has certainly helped all of us relax as no longer is there any uncertainty about Lhoppon-la's status here in the United States.  The distraction of uncertainty has been lifted and we can all focus more on making Mipham Shedra stable and secure for the future.

As you know, we sought and received pledges from enough of you this year to benefit from a challenge grant offered by a generous donor. This enabled us to meet our budget for 2012 which too provides a much higher level of financial security for our activities, both in terms of supporting the temple and our Lama as well as in funding educational and other activities.

So, please allow me to ask that those of you who made such generous pledges begin to fulfill them today by sending your checks to Mipham Shedra either as one annual payment or monthly as per your ability or per your initial pledge.  Early receipt of those funds will greatly assist in all manner of Center activities.

We also wish to make everyone aware that we have tax donation letters available for tax year 2011.  If you require one for filing with your taxes, please send a request to info@miphamshedra.org and we will send a letter to you electronically.  Please include your home mailing address and phone number along with your request so that we can bring our files up to date.

Finally, should the figure we report not match that noted in your files, please let us know as soon as possible by email or in writing.  Please provide supporting documentation of your 2011 donation amounts with your letter so that we can make corrections as needed. Thanks very much.

Mitchell Gershten MD

Treasurer

TASHI DELEK, FRIENDS, STUDENTS AND SUPPORTERS OF MIPHAM SHEDRA

This winter, Mipham Shedra will be offering 12 week Level 1 and Level 2 Shedra classes.

Level 1 is designed for students new to the Dharma.  This class will include instruction on:

• Purpose, design and setup of shrines
• The purpose and practice of prostration
• Basic History of the Dharma
• Proper conduct of the student
• The purpose and practice of Mantra recitation
• Calligraphy
• How to develop a daily practice

Level 2 will consist of a more detailed exploration of history, philosophy and debate.

Information on required texts for the class will follow shortly. Students are expected to purchase these texts prior to the first classes.

We ask that all interested students and practitioners contact Lhoppon Rechung directly to determine which class would be most appropriate for their needs and level.

Class Dates:

• LEVEL ONE: Mondays beginning January 16th, 2012, 7-9 PM
• LEVEL TWO: Thursdays beginning January 19th, 2012, 7-9 PM

Please RSVP by December 26, 2011.  Tuition must  be paid in full by January 10, 2012.  Please make your checks payable to Mipham Shedra and note '2012 Shedra'  on your check.