This series begins with meditation instruction and and introduction to the ceremonial aspect of the Soto Zen tradition

1. Vespers is the chanting of The Litany of the Great Compassionate One followed by short verses.
2. Open discussion on following the Mahayana Bodhisattva Precepts.

Chanting scripture The Litany of the Great Compassionate One and other short verses that go together to make up the Vespers ceremony. This is the last public ceremony of the day.

The Festival of Shakyamuni Buddha’s Enlightenment celebrates Shakyamuni Buddha’s moment of spiritual awakening under the Bodhi tree in ancient India as he gazed at the morning star rising in the eastern sky. The temple altar will have a decorative tree representing the Bodhi tree, which we often refer to as a “jewel tree,” and the hall will be trimmed with winter holiday finery. We are encouraging everyone to bring a snack to share in celebration of this Festival and the holiday season