Over 2,500 years ago, in the gardens of Lumbini, in the region we now call Nepal, a child was born into the royal household that ruled the Shakya people. This prince was given the name Siddhartha Gautama. Seven days after his birth his mother died.
It was predicted that the prince would either become a great monarch or a spiritual leader. His father, King Suddhodana, sheltered his son from misery and anything else that might influence him toward the religious life. Siddhartha’s decision at the age of 29 to abandoned his affluent life, to seek enlightenment, and to teach, inspired Buddhism, the fourth largest religion in the world.
Like the Buddha, we are born.
Like the Buddha, we can undertake a steadfast journey of discovery and reflection.
Each April Ashland Zen Center commemorates the birth of the Buddha.
Buddha’s Birthday Sesshin
Going, going, completely going, all together completely going.
Friday Morning April 7 - Sunday Afternoon April 9
You possess the requirement to participate in this sesshin, your commitment. At any moment, one step and the journey continues. Wading into the currents of generosity and gratitude we are deposited together at this shared occasion. Going on from here, going on from now. Buddha’s Birthday Sesshin registration is open.
It is encouraged to attend the entire sesshin, and sleep at Ashland Zen Center to receive the full benefit of sesshin. If that is not possible, share your schedule on the registration form with
Tendo Sensei and Kigetsu Sensei so they can support your commitment.
For those sleeping over at Zen Center move in begins at 5:00pm on Thursday, April 6. Lights out is at 9:00pm.
Sesshin fees are $150, or $120 for pledging members. For those able to sit only part of sesshin, this is $50/day, or $40/day for pledging members. Payment will be due at the time of registration.
There are no refunds for canceling.
Tendo Sensei and Kigetsu Sensei will both offer dokusan (private meeting with a teacher) during Buddha’s Birthday sesshin.
It is our tradition to make an offering for the teachings. For this purpose, a dana (offering) bowl will be out during sesshin. All the money collected there will go directly to the
teachers.
Sesshin registration is now open and will close on Monday, March 27. Full COVID vaccination is required of all participants.
Meals will be eaten in our traditional oryoki style. Oryoki instruction will be offered Thursday, April 6 at 4:00 p.m.
Registration
Pay by Check
Sesshin fees are $150, or $120 for Pledging members of Ashland Zen Center. Religious Education is fully tax-deductible in the State of Oregon. Ashland Zen Center's Tax-ID Number is 93-1146070.
A donation for overnight accommodation is appropriate and can be added to your check. You may also add a donation to the Scholarship Fund if you wish.
Fill out registration form, make check payable to AZC, and mail or deliver both to:
Ashland Zen Center
740 Tolman Creek Road
Ashland OR 97520
...Or Pay Now
You may pay here online instead for an additional 3.6% to cover PayPal fees. Religious Education is fully tax-deductible in the State of Oregon. Ashland Zen Center's Tax-ID Number is 93-1146070.
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