Monk Sponsorship Program

Shalu Monastery is home to about 55 monks who have dedicated their lives to spiritual study and practice, and these numbers are growing.  By sharing in the merit of sponsoring one or more of our monks, there is the opportunity to greatly benefit the monastic community but also to enrich your own life.  Sponsorship of monks also helps to continue and sustain the unique and prized heritage of Shalu Monastery and the Bhulug lineage.

Our sponsorship program is based upon traditional Buddhist monastic principles, which state that all facilities at a monastery shall be offered free of charge to their members. This allows the members to focus entirely on their studies and the practice of the Dharma without worries or distractions.  It is customary for all candidates that are accepted into the Monastic community to be taken in regardless of their age and background. Thereafter, once having entered Shalu Monastery, the monastery takes complete responsibility for the upbringing, education and health of all the monks.  This is a tremendous undertaking, which requires constant attention and funding. Therefore, it is our wish and hope that we may create and build upon a continuous stream of funding and support, so that the important functioning of the Monastery will thrive. The generosity of those who donate and sponsor is crucial for the very existence of the Monastery, and it is appreciated beyond words.

Moreover, individual sponsorship of the monks will allow the Monastery to be self-reliant while operating in a foreign environment. It will ensure a lifestyle of simple living for these dedicated monks, as well as providing a safe and secure environment in which the study and practice of the Dharma may thrive. 

The funds raised through sponsorships or donations will be used for to provide the monks with basic housing, simple meals three times a day, clothing appropriate for the seasons, such as summer and winter robes, and warm socks.  Any necessary medical expenditures will also be taken care of. 

Individual contributions provided by sponsors are pooled so that the entire community may benefit equally and equitably. However, once a sponsor has chosen a specific, individual monk, the exchange of letters, photos, and other correspondence between the monk and sponsor are welcomed. The line of communication between monk and sponsor can be most fulfilling for both, as it opens a window into life inside of, and outside of the Monastery, respectively.  It allows a direct relationship between monk and sponsor, which can be a unique and cherished experience for both parties.

To participate in and to support the Monk Sponsorship Program please contact: shalumonastery@rediffmail.com

Your participation in this very worthwhile endeavor will never be forgotten and will always be appreciated with heartfelt gratitude.