UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State and the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development will host Tibetan Buddhist monks from the Tashi Kyil Monastery for a weeklong visit to University Park from Oct. 22 to 26.

On Monday morning, Oct. 22, the monks will begin their work on a sand mandala in the Pasquerilla Spiritual Center Garden Room and will conclude their work on Friday, Oct. 26. Visitors can stop by throughout the week to watch their progress.  

In addition to the sand mandala, the following programs will take place as part of the visit in Room 124 of the Pasquerilla Spiritual Center:

Oct. 22

•  6:30 p.m.: 45-minute Tibetan mantra meditation

Oct. 23

• Noon: lunch discussion co-sponsored by the Rock Ethics Institute (light lunch provided)
• 7 p.m.: arts workshop with sand painting, butter sculpting and Mani stones

Oct. 24

• 2:30 p.m.: 75-minute class discussion on mindfulness and mantra recitation
• 6:30 p.m.: skeleton, panda and black hat dances with explanations

Oct. 25

• 2 p.m.: slideshow on death and dying from the Buddhist perspective

Rachel Galloway, assistant director for the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development, said it is important to the center that students feel they can practice their faith in an open and safe environment.

“We also try to expose students to beliefs outside of those they hold themselves so that they may have a better understanding of, and greater appreciation for, the world around them,” Galloway said. 

The monks are currently on the Tashi Kyil USA Tour, to teach the Dharma and educate the public about the culture and religion of Tibet while raising funds for their monastery. This is the fourth tour the monks have completed.

Galloway said students can expect to learn more about Buddhist beliefs and practices while being able to observe various religious rituals.

Visit the Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development’s website to learn more information about the center and its efforts.