Dear Noble Sangha and Friends,
As you might know by now, Venerable Dzigar Kongtrul Rinpoche will begin a yearly Shedra program in Salvador Bahia, Brazil starting in November of 2011. Rinpoche plans to return to Salvador every year and teach a different classical Buddhist text. His aspiration is that these traditional teachings will contribute to the dharma taking root in Brazil.
You may not know that Rinpoche and his Sangha have a center, Guna Norling, in Salvador. It is centrally located in the historic neighborhood of Rio Vermelho but tucked 
away in an alcove in front of the ocean. Rinpoche has already taught and done various retreats there. He described it as a special and magical place, a powerful place for practice where one can gaze out at the vast ocean and sky while hearing the waves crash against the rocks, all the while easily forgetting that the city is literally right around the corner.
Guna Norling was built by a student of Rinpoche’s sixteen years ago and officially became an MSB center eight years ago. Over time, due to salty air and harsh weather conditions, the center has sustained some serious structural damage that needs attention. Pillars and vigas have begun to crack and the roof has sustained irreparable damage. At the same 
time, we also need a larger space to accommodate our growing sangha. We met with structural engineers to discover ways to add another floor to the center and how this could solve our structural problems as well. We have found a solution; a large open addition with a magnificent view of the ocean. This space will be used as our shrine room and also as a teacher’s suite for Rinpoche and other visiting teachers when they are in Salvador. The existing floors of the center will continue to be used for residents and retreatants. It is an ambitious project we hope to complete within the next 2-3 years.
Art Auction
In order to raise money we are beginning to hold various events and fundraisers. Rinpoche, his son and Dharma heir Dungse Jampal and two of his students who are
Sunset in Bir by Kongtrul Rinpoche
known and respected artists have very generously donated original works of art and photography with 100% of the proceeds going towards the renovation of our center. By supporting Guna Norling in this and other ways, you will also be supporting Rinpoche’s future visits and teachings in Salvador and his vision of helping the Dharma take root in Brasil. Visit the Auction Site.
It is with certainty and enthusiasm that we are promoting this Art Auction to raise funds for structural reform of Guna Norling. For more information and other ways that you can give support to this vision, please contact: Sarah Gomes — saraha.ziji@hotmail.com
Guna Norling Renovation Project
1. 4 new structural pillars for reinforcement.
2. Replace top concrete floor (laje) with a new reinforced floor that can hold the weight of up to 55 people.
3. Ceramic roof
4. Shrine room/ Teachers suite including a small bathroom and kitchen.
Estimates of costs of our renovation project is $55,000.00
We understand the magnitude this project , and what inspires us and motivates is the Rinpoche’s vision for Guna Norling, as a place where the dharma may flourish and may benefit many people. We believe that we can count on open hearts and the generosity of those willing to support this project.
With warmest wishes,
Thank you to everyone for making this possible.
Sangha Guna Norling
