Prayers Offered for Slain Tibetan Monks

In early May, members of the Portland-SW Washington area Tibetan community gathered to commemorate the 49th day following the deaths of approximately 200 Tibetan monks during street demonstrations in Lhasa.

With offerings of food, prayers, and chanting, the traditional tsog took place at the Northwest Tibetan Cultural Association's community center in Portland. NWTCA sponsored the commemoration, which focused on transferring merit and wisdom to the monks awaiting rebirth and to all sentient beings. Yogini Jangtsub Pelmo and others provided instruction and inspiration.

According to NWTCA president, Tsering Choephel, the Portland-SW Washington region is home to over 400 Tibetans. The Association offers weekly Sunday prayers as well as instruction in the Tibetan language and Tibetan traditions.

Local Tibetan spiritual and cultural activities are a favorite subject for professional photographer, Jan van Raay, who has generously allowed us to use these images.