About FPMT Mongolia
We appreciate your interest in wanting to learn more about FPMT – Mongolia. Buddhism in Mongolia needs more attention, cultivation, and support. A prominent feature of the country’s history and rich culture, the ancient Buddhist traditions of the past came under threat in the 1930s during Soviet Communist rule. During this time, many monasteries were destroyed. Many monks and nuns were also either forced to give up their practice or were systematically killed.
All but a few of Mongolia’s one thousand temples were destroyed. Those that remained were converted into military or storage facilities for use by the Communists. Libraries were burned, artworks were melted down for their metal content, and buildings were torched. The cultural purges of the 1930s saw complete destruction of all pre-Communist culture. Buddhism was at the top of the list of targets.
Our Mission to Support Buddhism
In Mongolia, FPMT supports the revitalization of Buddhism and provides social services to support those in need. Originally established in 1999 as Shedrub Ling, it has provided opportunities for people to participate in Dharma teachings and meditation classes along with other special activities and events for those who wish to learn. Sessions held at the center are available in Mongolian and English free of charge or by donation only. Our Publishing branch, Enlightened Mind Publishing, also translates Dharma books from English and Tibetan into Mongolian so local students can further their studies. Team members also conduct prison outreach programs featuring Buddhist teachings, training in meditation, and material support through provision of urgently needed supplies.
Within the Amgalan ger community in the southeast corner of Ulaanbaatar, community service activities are also a part of the mandala of the Center’s work. This is done through the Lamp of the Path (LOP) NGO which provides nutritious meals, food delivery, clothing, and medical care to those in need. The Center continues to take advantage of technologies including this website, Facebook pages, and YouTube to share our activities and publicize our work for the general public. Teaching events and pujas, or prayer ceremonies, are also live streamed for those unable to attend in person.
This website provides additional information on the work of FPMT Mongolia as well as on our activities and achievements. This is all possible due to the kindness and generosity of our patrons and benefactors. If you wish to assist in continuing this very important work, CLICK HERE to find out how you can contribute or get involved.