Greetings Friends!
We are fortunate to have the opportunity to practice together for Rohatsu.
Rohatsu is the celebration of the Buddha’s enlightenment, it’s the most important event in the Soto Zen calendar. Rohatsu begins on December 1st and culminates on the 8th of December, known as Bodhi Day. The term literally translates to “the day of enlightenment,” and while it commemorates the historical event of Siddhartha Gautama awakening under the Bodhi tree, in a practice context, it is a time for us to renew our own commitment to awakening.
For the 8 days of Rohatsu I encourage you to please practice diligently. Perhaps add a block of zazen to your daily schedule, strive to practice awareness and acts of compassion throughout your days and nights. It’s an auspicious time to reflect on your purpose and commitment to practice.
This year we will be celebrating Jukai for Cole and Tokudo for Ryūdo during sesshin. Please make your best efforts to attend the full schedule. Open to all.
Please keep in mind the Paramita of generosity; dana for sesshin, especially for our visiting guests, Kendo Roshi and Myoshin Sensei who are traveling from Colorado to join us and facilitate the ceremonies.
Rohatsu Sesshin Dec. 4-6
Officiants:
Kendo Ralph Bruce-Fritz, Roshi
Mysohin Carol Bruce-Fritz, Sensei
Issan Mugai Elkin, Sensei
Friday Night
7:00-8:10: Zazen, 2 periods with Kinhin
Dokusan 2nd period
Closing: Four Vows
Saturday
7:30-9:20: Zazen, 3 periods with Kinhin
Verse of the Kesa
Heart Sutra Service
9:30-11:00: Breakfast
11:00-12:10: Zazen, 1 period
Identity of Relative and Absolute Service
Jukai Ceremony for Cole
1:30-3:00 Lunch break
3:15-5:00 Zazen, 3 periods with Kinhin
Dokusan 2nd period
Closing with Four Vows
Sunday
7:30-8:15: Zazen, 1 period
Verse of the Kesa
Heart Sutra Service
8:15-9 Head Shaving
9:00-10:30 Breakfast
10:45-11:15 Zazen, 1 period
11:15-12 Tokudo Ceremony for Ryūdo
12:00-12:30 Identity of Relative and Absolute Service
12:30-1:30 Closing Circle
3:00 Potluck at Issan Sensei’s house (not necessary to bring food)
Deep Peace & Great Love,
Issan Sensei