From the Dalai Lama to “The Gates” by Christo in 2004. Photo: Tony Carnes/A Journey through NYC religions

The Dalai Lama and five other lamas (monks) culminate 10 days of teaching Tibetan Buddhism to New Yorkers with a “Sunrise Meditation for World Peace” in Central Park’s Sheep Meadow.

In an October 11, 1991 article for The New York Times, Ari Goldman described the city festivities surrounding the Dalai Lama’s presence: “There may be few things as incompatible as Manhattan and Buddhism. One means competition, self-fulfillment, and the fast track; the other means contemplation, self-abnegation, and savoring the moment. but all around Manhattan these days are little oases of Buddhism, part of a celebration of religion and culture called the Year of Tibet. the Dalai Lama arrived earlier this week to take part…From SoHo to Morningside Heights, the Year of Tibet will be marked with religious ceremonies, lectures, meditations, films, music, and other ephemeral arts, like butter sculpture.”

See how Redeemer Presbyterian Church used a Buddhist sculpture to promote the humanizing of the workplace.

“Retro Flashes” are Journey’s quick takes on moments of history that have made New York City what it is, what New Yorkers are, and, maybe, what it will be.

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