Annual Fall Practice Period
Opening October 13 2024
Schedule of Events coming
The annual fall practice period has become an important event in the life of the sangha, as we come together to affirm and deepen our practice.
The Practice Period this year will be hybrid, in-person and Zoom. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to join in.
The focus of study and practice tba.
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WHAT IS A PRACTICE PERIOD?
Practice Period is a special time set aside each year, when the sangha makes personal and collective commitments to intensify and deepen their practice of the Bodhisattva way in everyday life.
It is an opportunity focused on our intention and interactions in the world… in zazen, relationships, at home, work, study, in the care of self and other, and for all beings.
The Practice Period depends on the integrity of each individual’s personal commitment, as well as the strength of our shared intention and mutual support as we deepen and cultivate the sangha body together. Those who have participated in the Practice Period over the years know it can be a source of support and renewal throughout the year. Seasoned practitioners and those new to Dharma Heart Zen are encouraged to participate.
We ask that each person complete a Practice Period Commitment Form (link below) as an expression of intent. These forms are confidential, and the request is that we receive them by tba.
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THE SHUSO
The Shuso offers inspiration, guidance, heart, and wisdom, and is a central point of connection for the Practice Period. The mutuality of deeply sharing our practice lives together serves to encourage us all.
Please note, in support of the Shuso:
Zen Practice Periods include two important ceremonies with the Shuso - please make every effort to attend
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THEME
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Recommended Sources
PRACTICE PERIOD EVENTS, PARTNERS & TEAS
Please note: It is not necessary to come to all of the events to participate in the Practice Period. Especially try to come to events that the Shuso is leading to support our head student during this time. If you live locally, please do your best to attend in person. Attend as many weekly sangha meetings as you can during the Practice Period (we understand that some of you are only able to attend on either Tuesday or Thursday).
The Entering Ceremony
Sunday, October 6: 9:00-9:45 am PT, at the beginning of the All-day Sitting (9am - 4pm). You can attend by being part of the sitting - half or full-day - or on Zoom.The Closing Ceremony
(TBA); the final day of the Annual Buddha’s Enlightenment Retreat (December 7 and 8), followed by a tea and celebration. You can attend by sitting the full retreat or coming for just the ceremony, in-person or on Zoom.The Shuso will lead meetings. Chris will lead all other meetings.
All-day Sittings: Sunday, October 6 & December 7
Buddha’s Enlightenment Retreat: Saturday and Sunday, December 7-8
The Practice Period is a time to cultivate and affirm sangha relationships. Each person will have a Practice Period partner (you can ask for someone or we will match you with someone). The request is that you meet together (on the phone or in person) at least three times during the Practice Period. The conversations are practice-oriented, perhaps 30 minutes each. We will send suggested guidelines to help focus your meetings.
There will be an All-Sangha Practice Period tea
PERSONAL COMMITMENT
We ask each member of the Practice Period to make a personal commitment to deepen your practice in whatever way you choose. Please use the Practice Period as a special time to devote yourself to your spiritual practice and the bodhisattva way and to attending as many of the scheduled sangha events as possible. This might include more sitting at home, more study or reading, work on a particular practice theme in daily life, or some appropriate personal alteration in lifestyle. The details will be unique from person to person - each person is simply asked to make a sincere and realistic commitment in their daily lives. This is a personal decision. Reflect on what would enrich and deepen your practice.
Use link below to send completed form to Chris and Susho. Please bring a focused attention to completing this form - it will help you enter the Practice Period with clear intention.
We hope to receive them tba (applications are confidential)
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IS THERE A FEE FOR JOINING THE PRACTICE PERIOD?
There is no fee for the Practice Period itself, but a donation of $100 or whatever you can afford helps support the Dharma Heart Zen sangha. Donation via PayPal, Venmo and check are welcomed with gratitude.
Chalk drawing of Guanyin by Nicole Greaney