Close X
Sunday, November 24, 2024
ADVT 
National

Shambhala Buddhist Leader Drops Teaching In Wake Of Report On Sexual Misconduct

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 21 Feb, 2019 10:20 PM

    HALIFAX — The Halifax-based spiritual leader of the Shambhala International Buddhist organization is stepping back from teaching and administrative duties several weeks after a report found allegations of sexual misconduct to be credible.


    Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche said in an email to his students today that he is sorry for "all that has happened," and that he understands he is the main source of suffering and confusion in the community.


    He also said that he's been requested to step back from teaching by senior members of the Shambhala community for the "foreseeable future."

     

    However, Sakyong says he will still be available "for contact" with students who want to maintain a relationship with him and he will stay connected to the community by writing occasional messages.


    He wrote that he hopes that this allows community members to use the Buddhist teachings as "a way of healing and inspiration."


    In a report released on Feb. 3, an investigator with the Halifax law firm Wickwire Holm hired by the organization found Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche made inappropriate sexual advances towards two female students.


    Lawyer Selina Bath noted a "significant power imbalance" in the relationships given the Sakyong's position of authority as both the spiritual leader and lineage holder of Shambhala — one of the western world's largest Buddhist organizations.

    MORE National ARTICLES

    Men Appeal Conviction In Via Rail Terror Plot, Argue Jury Improperly Selected

    Lawyers for Raed Jaser argue the judge who oversaw the case made several errors, including in rejecting their client's request as to the method of jury selection.

    Men Appeal Conviction In Via Rail Terror Plot, Argue Jury Improperly Selected

    U.K.'s Pro-Huawei Signals Give Canada Breathing Space On 5G Decision: Expert

    If Britain gives Huawei a cautious green light, it will allow Canada room to make an independent decision, said Wesley Wark, an intelligence expert who teaches at the University of Ottawa.    

    U.K.'s Pro-Huawei Signals Give Canada Breathing Space On 5G Decision: Expert

    Defence At Mother's Murder Trial Says Girls' Deaths Remain A Mystery

    Defence At Mother's Murder Trial Says Girls' Deaths Remain A Mystery
    The lawyer for a Quebec mother accused of killing her two daughters said Monday that 10 years after the girls were found dead in their playroom, there is still no explanation of what happened.

    Defence At Mother's Murder Trial Says Girls' Deaths Remain A Mystery

    Pro-Pipeline Protest Convoy Approaches Ottawa After Rolling Across Country

    Pro-Pipeline Protest Convoy Approaches Ottawa After Rolling Across Country
    The core message is we need immediate action for our pipelines to get in the ground, to get to tidewater and to the rest of Canada

    Pro-Pipeline Protest Convoy Approaches Ottawa After Rolling Across Country

    'Making This Up:' Study Says Oilsands Assessments Marred By Weak Science

    'Making This Up:' Study Says Oilsands Assessments Marred By Weak Science
    EDMONTON — Dozens of oilsands environmental impact studies are marred by inconsistent science that's rarely subjected to independent checks, says a university study.

    'Making This Up:' Study Says Oilsands Assessments Marred By Weak Science

    Carole James Says B.C. Budget Puts Priorities On NDP's Poverty, Environment Plans

    Carole James says her budget builds on the minority New Democrat government's goals of making life more affordable, improving services and ensuring a sustainable economy.

    Carole James Says B.C. Budget Puts Priorities On NDP's Poverty, Environment Plans