Loppon Lodro Dorje

After a stint pursuing theology, then physics, and then computer programming, Lodro Holm became  a student of the Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche in 1971, and moved to Boulder to join the Karma Dzong community there. Under Trungpa Rinpoche’s direction, Loppon Lodro Dorje was head of the Office of Three Yana Studies from 1976 through 1990, which facilitated the meditation practice and study of the three yanas for Vajradhatu students. As a founding member of the Nalanda Translation Committee he was fortunate to work with the Druk Sakyong on both Buddhist and Shambhala texts. In 1985 the Vidyadhara designated him Dorje Loppon and empowered him to give ngöndro and vajrayana transmissions. He was appointed an acharya by Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and served from 1996 – 2020.  Over the years, he also continued his study and practice with other lineage masters, especially Thrangu Rinpoche, Khenpo Tsultim Gyatso and Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche. Over the past 8 years he has taught annually on Shambhala Online, mainly on sadhana practice and mahamudra tradition. He lives in Halifax with his wife Donna; they have one son and two grandsons.

Upcoming Programs by Loppon Lodro Dorje

The Wisdom Weapon of Compassion: Vajrakilaya - Five-Week Retreat

Also with Karen Porterfield

October 29 - December 3, 2026
The practice of Vajrakilaya is especially timely in today's world of increasing aggression and chaos. This five-week retreat provides the opportunity to complete the Vajrakilaya retreat requirement, which is fulfilled by completing 32 days of practice. Upon completion, you will be qualified to attend Vajrakilaya fire offerings—both Amending and Four Karmas.

The Wisdom Weapon of Compassion: Vajrakilaya - Part 1 (Two-Week Retreat)

Also with Karen Porterfield

October 29 - November 15, 2026
During Part 1 of the Vajrakilaya retreat, participants begin fulfilling the Vajrakilaya retreat requirement by completing the first 14 days of the required 32-day retreat. This program is also open to those who are already qualified for the Vajrakilaya retreat and wish to participate as an intensive practice. The practice of Vajrakilaya is especially timely. In a world experiencing increasing aggression and chaos, this practice is intended to address precisely these kinds of conditions.

The Wisdom Weapon of Compassion: Vajrakilaya - Part 2 (Three-Week Retreat)

Also with Karen Porterfield

November 13 - December 3, 2026
During this three-week Vajrakilaya retreat, participants who have completed the first recitation (14 days) may complete the Vajrakilaya retreat requirement by time, which consists of 32 days of practice. Those who have already fulfilled the retreat commitment—whether by time or mantra, in solitude or in a group setting—are warmly welcome to join this retreat as well. The practice of Vajrakilaya is especially timely. In a world experiencing increasing aggression and chaos, this practice is intended to address precisely these kinds of conditions.