For the first time, His Holiness the Dalai Lama will confer the Kalachakra for World Peace ritual in our nation’s capital this month. “We believe it is capable of creating... peace of spirit, and therefore peace in the world,” he says.

The Capital Area Tibetan Association is sponsoring the event, intended to inspire harmonious relationships and abiding peace in the hearts of all people, in gratitude to those that have supported the preservation of Tibet’s rich cultural heritage. Together, participants will act to promote the strength of compassion and wisdom so urgently needed to reduce conflict in today’s world.

The 11-day event launches July 6, the 76th birthday of the Dalai Lama, the recipient of 84 humanitarian commendations, including the Nobel Peace Prize. The occasion will begin with site consecration, chanting prayers and creation of a sand mandala by the monks of Namgyal Monastery. The Dalai Lama will then teach the foundations of Buddhism for three days, followed by the Kalachakra ritual dance and three days of empowerment. The ceremony will close with prayers on July 16.

For information and tickets, visit Kalachakra2011.com.