Dear Acharyas, Shastris, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Kalapa Heralds, and students of Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche,
What we have known as Shambhala – and before as Vajradhatu – is evolving from a lineage-based organisation into something new. The joint statement on the results of mediation between the Shambhala and Sakyong Potrang Boards will likely bring many outward changes, but at the same time the activities of Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and the Shambhala organisation will continue in the separate directions that have been evolving over the past few years.
In order to support this evolution, on behalf of Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, I would like to convey that all academic and governmental titles – such as acharya, minister, deputy minister, herald, and shastri – that developed during the Sakyong’s leadership of the Shambhala organisation are now dissolved. Beginning in early 1990s with the appointment of a group of senior students as acharyas to bestow refuge vows on behalf of the Sakyong, many individuals have received appointments, taken oaths related to these appointments, and carried out the activity of their positions in the spirit of those oaths. At this time of substantial change, it is only natural that the names, rights, permissions, and responsibilities of these appointments, offered by the Sakyong, dissolve so that there is no confusion about the activity of the Sakyong or the development of the Shambhala organisation.
Moving ahead without past credentials will enable us all to find our way with more freedom. It will allow us to see one another clearly with a fresh start for the lineage and practitioners of Buddhism, and in particular the Shambhala teachings. May we all dedicate the merit of our past service to the enlightenment of all beings.
May the Great Eastern Sun be Victorious,
David S. Brown