14th Dalai Lama recently celebrated 75th birthday

Last week, on July 6th, the 75th birthday of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was celebrated worldwide by the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhists, but His Holiness has made his impact felt globally insofar as preaching messages of peace and religious tolerance to many nations.

The current Dalai Lama was recognized as a future Dalai Lama in 1937, but has officially reigned from 1950 up to now. He succeeded the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubtan Gyatso, who reigned from 1879-1933.

The first Dalai Lama was named in 1578 by the Mongoil ruler Atlan Khan, who bestowed the title upon Sonam Gyatso.

NYTS VP of Institutional Advancement Peter Zehren had an opportunity recently to be blessed by the Dalai Lama at Riverside Church.

The New York Theological Seminary has remained committed to interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance. For more information, go to the seminary's website.