Foundation For The Preservation of The Mahayana Tradition - Structure

Structure

The FPMT is a federation of dharma centers. Each center is separately incorporated and locally financed, but follows common policies and spiritual guidance.

The FPMT is headed by a self-perpetuating board of directors, with its spiritual director (presently Lama Zopa) also is a board member. The FPMT International Office represents the board's executive function. The president / CEO of the FPMT is currently (2009) Ven. Roger Kunsang.

FPMT centers have their own local boards, which appoint center directors with the approval of the International Board. Centers also have a spiritual program director and in many cases, a resident geshe (and perhaps other sangha as well).

The center directors and spiritual directors from various countries meet every 12 to 18 months as the Council for the Preservation for the Mahayana Tradition (CPMT), in order to deliberate points of mutual concern. Its role is advisory to the International Board, although the CPMT actually predates it (1978 vs. 1983).

Lines of authority within the FPMT are complicated by the fact that many of its officers are devoted to Lama Zopa (or others) on the basis of tantric vows, or a formal teacher-student relationship. The organization stipulates that

"...we generally only invite teachers who are in the Tibetan Gelug tradition of Lama Tsongkhapa. When considering inviting a teacher, the director needs to contact the Education Department for guidance before issuing the invitation."

The Dalai Lama is credited with the honorary role of "inspiration and guide".