Guru Vajradhara the 12th Chamgon Kenting Tai Situpa appointed Lama Norgyal as the Resident Lama of Kagyu Thubten Chöling Monastery to guide the community in their practice and education in Buddhism according to the lineage and the tradition of the Palpung Monastic Institution, under Rinpoche’s direction.
Lama Norgyal became a monk of Palpung Sherab Ling Monastic Seat in 1987 at the age of eight. He received his novice ordination and full ordination lifelong vows as a monk from Guru Vajradhara Chamgon Kenting Tai Situ Rinpoche directly after his 18th birthday. He completed his basic monastic education, and studied Tibetan Buddhist ritual and philosophy for many years. His mastery in these areas led him to be promoted to senior Umze (Chant Master), an important and distinguished position that requires extensive knowledge of the canon of Tibetan ritual practices that are regularly performed in a traditional Tibetan monastery. Lama Norgyal held the responsibilities of Umze at Palpung Sherab Ling Monastic Seat for more than 20 years.
From 2003 to 2013, Lama Norgyal was appointed head of the monastery’s environmental awareness initiative, and served diligently while continuing his regular responsibilities as Umze.
In the middle of year 2013, Lama Norgyal entered into the traditional three-year retreat program in Tingzin Gephel Ling, the monk retreat center of Palpung Sherab Ling Monastic Seat. The three-year retreat is a formal program of intensive meditation practices that trains students in the core teachings and practices of Tibetan Buddhism. Lama Norgyal successfully completed his three-year retreat, and is an authorized Lama based on his practice and knowledge of Buddhism.
In his appointment letter, Guru Vajradhara Chamgon Kenting Tai Situ Rinpoche wrote:
I sincerely pray that, by the appointment of Lama Norgyal as the Resident Lama of Kagyu Thubten Choling Monastery, he will be of great service to the monastery and its supporting community according to the teachings of Buddhadharma. May he bring great benefit to all sentient beings.
