Welcoming Bodhidharma to Shao Shan

Shao Shan Temple was recently honered to receive from Japan a statue of Bodhidharma.  This statue was gifted by Abbot Eitoku Kato of Ryougonji Temple and was carved by a member of his sangha.

Bodhidharma is the legendary first chinese patriarch and is known for having brought Zen to China and for having sat facing a wall for nine years. 

With sincere gratitude to Abbot Eitoku Kato.

Eye-Opening Ceremony on 7/25/2012

Members of the Shao Shan Children's Program
"Do we have to sit like this for nine years?"

Buddha's Robe Thread Waxing Party - 7/11/12

The work on the Funzoe Okesa - Buddha's Robe for the Mountain Seat Ceremony - has begun! 

Led by Donna, there was a stitch practice session on Saturday (7/7/12) and a thread waxing gathering Wednesday (7/11/12).  Ten sangha members gathered at Connie's house for pizza followed by thread waxing.  The thread waxing was accompanied by chanting Namu Kie Butsu.

Another Thread Waxing Gathering will be held on August 1st.

 

Jukai - July 1st

The Jukai or Bodhisattva Precepts Ceremony for Noah Weinstein took place on Sunday, July 1st. 

Approximately 30 people gathered at Shao Shan Temple to witness Noah's commitment and to renew their own internal vows.  Noah's new Dharma name is Jiki-Rin.  "Jiki" means "immediate" or "direct" and "Rin" means "Forest" or "Monastery".

Congratulations, JikiRin!

Summer Children's Program Begins

The summer children's program has begun at Shao Shan Temple.  Last Thursday, five children enjoyed a morning of learning meditation, working outside, having snack and taking a food offering walk to feed the fish.

Fujita-Sensei Teaching Weekend

Shao Shan Temple was honored to host Issho Fujita- sensei this past Memorial Day weekend.  Approxmately 30 people attended his teachings on Saturday and Sunday at Shao Shan Temple and enjoyed his insightful and engaging approach.

Fujita-sensei also gave a well-attended public lecture in Montpelier entitled "One Flower Blooms, The World Arises".

We are grateful to have been able to experience his teachings and we hope to be able to host him again.