OG Summer Practice

Intensive Summer!

What a fantastic summer season! In this edition, we're thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of our 36-day Zen practice period! As the weekend retreat marked the end of the practice period, there was an unmistakable sense of transformation and accomplishment for those who surrendered to their practice. For those who embraced the rewarding challenges of extended meditation and self-reflection, these 36 days were a profound journey. For many, there was the cultivation of inner strength, resilience, and insights that have shifted into everyday life. This marks not just an end of the practice period, but the beginning of a new chapter for Open Gate Zen Collective. 

On top of the practice period, there have been weekend retreats, council practices, and our book study seminar! It's safe to say we have been deeply immersed in Zen. 

The first weekend retreat at OG began with Dojin's head trainee opening ceremony. Participants followed a structured schedule of meditation, meals, work, and chanting, experiencing deep inner exploration in noble silence. Great way to start the practice period! And, although not everyone could attend the last retreat, the closing retreat of the practice period was the cherry on top. It represented a completed commitment to the practice. Congratulations _(|)_
Jose Taikan Mendez offered our first class of Yoga for Beginners. It is an excellent opportunity to be more in touch with our bodies. Stay in tune! For the next date. Thank you to Taikan for sharing.

We are also thrilled to announce that our "Meditación Zen en tu Idioma" program is experiencing significant growth. We've hosted a full zendo session every Thursday night, and it looks like this might be a regular occurrence!

In July, Sensei Shinzan made his first visit to meet our Colombian Sister Sangha, marking a momentous occasion. Shinzan has been diligently teaching for the past three years through Zoom, conducting weekly sessions whenever his schedule permits. Santiago Monshin Aviles, who has been a devoted student of Shinzan for the same duration and has played a crucial role in leading a sitting group in Bogotá. 
Shinzan led an "Introduccion a la practica del Zen." over 20 people attended the Intro to Zen Workshop full day! And Rakusu sewing session for five people, as well.  

Excitingly, a few of our students will soon be receiving Jukai from Shinzan, with hopes of completing this process by 2024. Furthermore, Monshin is currently a postulant for priesthood. Que Viva el Zen! Enhorabuena!

Moreover, the council practices fostered deep bonds, empathy, and a sense of community: genuinely listening to one another and speaking with heartfelt sincerity. The spontaneous and concise nature of council further supported the individual practitioner's and the community as a whole. And of course, the potlucks only sweetened this: both literally and figuratively (thanks bakers!). 

As we move forward, Open Gate Zen Collective is poised to embark on new chapters, with more activities and practices on the horizon. With the year not yet done, our commitment to practice remains unwavering, and we eagerly anticipate the journey ahead. See you in the Zendo!

Jukai “Generous Way”

After more than three years, due to the pandemic, we're extremely grateful that we're able to witness the Jukai Ceremony (Receiving the Precepts) once again. This occasion held special significance for the sangha because for the first time in years, we were able to gather in our Zendo, in our home. It was a truly wonderful moment to bear witness to. This time, John (Kando) was the sole member who took this important step forward. During every Jukai ceremony, all of us renewed our precepts.

John has successfully completed Jukai ceremony, a significant milestone in his spiritual journey within Zen and Open Gate Zen Collective. During this ceremony, he formally embraced Buddhist precepts, a set of ethical guidelines that provide the foundation for his moral conduct and way of life. This commitment is not just a personal one; it also signifies his acceptance of the responsibilities of being a part of the Buddhist community.

Performed and given by Shinzan, John received these precepts, establishing a profound teacher-student relationship that will guide him in his practice and understanding of Zen. Shinzan will serve as a source of guidance, support, and wisdom as he continues on his path.

As part of the ceremony, John was given a rakusu, a unique garment that symbolizes his dedication to the Buddhist path. This robe, worn over his everyday clothing, serves as a constant reminder of his commitment to ethical living and spiritual growth. Furthermore, John was bestowed with the Dharma name, Kando(Kan-do) during the Jukai ceremony. This name means "Generous Way." His name holds special significance which reflect his spiritual aspirations and or qualities.

John also recited vows during the ceremony, pledging his dedication to the precepts and his intention to follow the Buddhist path with sincerity and diligence. These vows, when truly practiced, serve as a guiding compass in his daily life.

The Jukai ceremony was witnessed by the OG community, family and friends, which created a sense of communal support and accountability. John's completion of this ceremony marks his formal entry into the Buddhist fold, specifically Zen, and signifies his commitment to a life of mindfulness, compassion, and growth. It is a profound step on his journey of self-discovery and awakening within the context of the Zen tradition.

Congratulations, OG!

The practice period proved to be a time of remarkable intensity and profound growth for all those who participated. Throughout this period, practitioners were able to delve deep into the heart of their practice, immersing themselves in valuable introspection and self-reflection. The daily commitment to meditation, study, and mindfulness cultivated an environment where insights flourished, and wisdom unfolded for those who came up against their own mind. Challenges were met with unwavering determination, and obstacles became opportunities for personal transformation. As practitioners navigated the intricate landscapes of their own hearts, they discovered inner strength and resilience they might not have known existed. The practice period was a crucible of self-discovery for the entire sangha, surging a learning curve for the community and a profound connection to the teachings of Zen. It was a period marked by the pursuit of inner truth and an enduring commitment to the path of Zen. Thank you for being a part of this transformative journey with us.