January 2008 Weekend Sesshin (Zazenkai)

"Master Dogen's Liturgy"
*Friday* January 4 - Sunday January 6
with Taiun Michael Elliston, Abbot

We invite you to join for all or part of the weekend sesshin (zazenkai) at the Atlanta Soto Zen Center. This sesshin is appropriate for all levels of practitioners and everyone is encouraged to experience the deepening of your practice that is only possible with this kind of intense practice period. Note that we are now starting on Friday night - you are welcome to attend any or all of the zazenkai.

Sesshin literally means "to unify the mind", and is highly recommended to anyone sincerely interested in experiencing the true heart of Zen practice. You will find that this is a wonderful opportunity to draw from the tremendous strength of the sangha practicing together to deepen your Zen practice in ways that are only possible through this kind of intensive practice session.

Dharma Teachings: "Master Dogen's Liturgy"

Sangha Sesshin is an opportunity for you to deepen your understanding of the chants and protocols of Soto Zen Buddhism in the context of intensive zazen. All chant materials will be provided and the sesshin leader will deliver a series of talks on the subject, and facilitate study periods and dialog.

We will feature recitation and discussion of the teachings of Dogen that have been incorporated into the Soto Shu liturgy, including (click title to download source):

Observing Silence

Talking is not prohibited, but we strive to maintain silence following the evening closing of the zendo until after breakfast.During the day, idle chitchat is discouraged, while dharma discussion of lecture content is encouraged. Any necessary talking is permitted, but please speak softly.

Schedule

The retreat begins at 6:30 pm Friday and ends Sunday after lunch. For convenience of the greater sangha, the zazenkai schedule conforms to our regular schedule during overlapping times (such as Sunday morning). This zazenkai follows the "sangha" schedule format with emphasis on chanting and other group activities. Click here for schedule details on the web site.

Samu

There will be samu periods, when work assignments will be given.

Cost

The suggested donation of $75 goes to support the overhead of the Zen Center and to fund necessary investments in future program and infrastructure. Dana goes to the support of teachers and staff. There are limited discount and sponsorship opportunities available for staff, full time students or those in need of financial assistance. Please inquire at time of registration.

Because donations are collected on the honor system, we urge you to drop your donation in the box upon arrival.

Meals Included

Overnight Accommodations

Overnight accommodations are available on a first-come first-served basis at $15/night, and require pre-payment at least one week in advance to guarantee space (others may be accepted if space is available). For information about accommodations, please email innkeeper@aszc.org.

Registration

Send email to register@aszc.org or simply sign up at the center.
Advance registration is required for overnight accommodations and meals.

Location

Atlanta Soto Zen Center
1167-C/D Zonolite Place
Atlanta GA 30306

Questions?

Send email to info@aszc.org.

Japanese Terms

Dokusan (interview with teacher)

Hannya Shingyo (Heart Sutra in Japanese)

Kinhin (walking meditation)

Oryoki (3-bowl formal meal)

Teisho (pointed comment)

Samu (work practice)

Zazen (sitting meditation)

Zendo (sitting hall)