Nature Retreat - Mountains walking

On Sunday, August 28th was a day-long 

Nature Retreat at Shao Shan Temple

This program was a unique combination of silence, meditation and a pilgrimage to the top of Little Sacred Mountain - the little mountain surrounded by water directly across from the temple.   In addition to walking silently both to and from the mountain, there was also sitting meditation both in the temple and at the top of  the mountain.  There was a dharma reading of portions of Dogen's Mountains and Waters Sutra.

All mountains ride on clouds and walk in the sky. 

Above all waters are all mountains. 

Walking beyond and walking within are both done on water. 

All mountains walk with their toes on all waters and splash there. 

-Dogen Zenji

Taking the canoe down to the water

Poling the canoe over to the pilgrimage path

At the top of Little Sacred Mountain

Sitting meditation on the mountain top

Pilgrimage back down the mountain

Open House!

Shao Shan Temple's first Open House this past Sunday, Aug. 14th, afforded an opportunity to visit Shao Shan Temple on a more informal occasion.  It was designed to make a comfortable setting for people who were curious about what happens at Shao Shan Temple and what the background is.  There was ample time for Question & Answer.

It was well attended with a number of people from the community visiting for the first time.

The Open House time included

· An introduction to the Temple

· A tour of the buildings and grounds

· Light refreshments

· The option of an “Introduction to Meditation”

· The option to visit the Mountain Retreat Site

Thanks to all who participated!

Successful Rhododendron Fundraiser!

Thanks to all who participated in this year's Rhododendron Fundraiser!  

Over 40 plants were distributed with donations 

totaling over $1,700.

Some of the sangha members who assisted in transporting, preparing for the blessing ceremony at Shao Shan Temple

One of Shao Shan Temple's Azaleas when in bloom

Selecting their Rhododendrons/Azaleas