A Joyful Milestone: Welcoming Ngawang Yeshe Wangpo to Our Monastic Community

December 26, 2025Rigpa Monastic Community

We are delighted to welcome a new member into the monastic community of Lerab Ling. After two years of dedicated probation, Alexandre has received the getsul ordination from Khenchen Pema Sherab Rinpoche on March 8th, 2026, at Urgen Dorje Choling Monastery in Pharping, Nepal. He now bears the Dharma name of Ngawang Yeshe Wangpo.

Khenpo Tashi Tseten, recently teaching at the Rigpa Shedra, spoke about the importance of ordination during the teachings after Yeshe Wangpo’s ordination.

This is a deeply special moment—not only for him, but for all who bear witness. His transformation is palpable: not merely in name, but in presence and radiance. We rejoice wholeheartedly, for rejoicing in virtue creates boundless merit.

What makes this ordination particularly meaningful is its authentic foundation. In many traditional contexts, ordination is taken at a young age—sometimes at parental instruction or cultural habit. Ngawang Yeshe Wangpo's path has been different. His choice springs from mature deliberation: years of study, contemplation, genuine understanding of the Dharma, and the cultivation of authentic renunciation. This embodies the true spirit of following the Buddha—ordination embraced with clarity, understanding, and unwavering personal conviction.

A powerful message also resonates through this occasion: it is never too late to take ordination. There is no fixed age, no prescribed timing, no requirement to remain ordained for life. Even taking vows for a single day carries immense merit and plants profound seeds for future awakening. Should one later find the discipline too challenging, the vows may be laid down without fear or shame.

This invitation extends to everyone. Anyone may one day choose this path, and such a decision should be encouraged, never hesitated over. Even if one were to die tomorrow, becoming a monk or nun today would bring extraordinary benefit. What matters is courage, openness, and genuine intention.

Ngawang Yeshe Wangpo's ordination reminds us that the monastic path is alive, accessible, and profoundly transformative. It is a beacon of possibility for anyone whose heart genuinely calls toward renunciation and awakening.

Let us celebrate this milestone with joy and appreciation. May his journey inspire us all, and may his commitment to the Dharma bring vast benefit to all beings.

Sarva Mangalam—May all be auspicious!

(Based on advice given by Khenpo Tashi Tseten, Rigpa Shedra March 2026)