Behind the scenes at the Shambhala Lineage Festival. This was my view from behind the computers!

An historic first for our Shambhala Community was the September 25th Shambhala Vow and Enlightened Society Vow ceremony held online. The idea was to unite the worldwide community and ignite planetary lungta by connecting together all at the same time! More than 3000 people around the world received these vows from the Sakyong, who was broadcast from Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Through the tremendous hard work and effort of many, people were able to recite the vows in their native tongue. Our executive director, Ms. Carolyn Mandelker, has heard from many groups and centres since the festival. They express their joy at having been included in this way, and many even asked that we have more worldwide events of this nature in the future.

Chris Morel (in Paris), Halifax, NS

Chris Morel is a long-time Shambhala practitioner, originally from NYC, and now residing in Halifax, Nova Scotia with his wife, Mary Campbell.

Chris became interested in computers and technology while working in the Vajradhatu Finance Office in the early 1980′s. Following this, he received a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from the University of Colorado in Boulder and has worked in a variety of technical positions.

In the Shambhala realm, he has participated in various campaigns with the Dorje Kasung, is an active Kusung, and recently worked on the new Halifax Shambhala Centre web site. Other interests include biking, squash, and music (Gagaku, Jazz, and music improv).

As a moderator for Shambhala Online, Chris appreciates the opportunity of helping those in all areas of the globe to connect with Shambhala teachings on meditation.

The teacher and the students are never alone at Shambhala Online! We are very fortunate to have a bevy of volunteers to call upon to help ensure the smooth running of our programs and classes. These are the people you meet when you arrive in the virtual classroom; our online moderators or hosts. They are there to help you with your technical set up as well as to familiarize you with the interface before the teacher arrives. The moderator also supports the teacher and can be in communication with them throughout the program.

If you are interested in knowing more about the opportunities to volunteer with Shambhala Online, please email heather@shambhalaonline.org