Practice Intensive

Living Buddha’s Last Words: Re-igniting Our Practice with the Mahaparinibbana Sutra

October 1 - November 2, 2024
Led by Shuso Rev. Allison

In person and via Zoom

The focus for the practice intensive is on the Mahaparinibbana Sutra. The book we will use is available on Amazon: Last Days of the Buddha: The Mahāparinibbāna Sutta”

For the Practice Intensive, Rev. Allison Draper is the Shuso. Shuso is a Zen Buddhist role translated as ‘Head Student’. The teacher/abbot designates a person as Shuso and leader for the Practice Intensive. At Bamboo in the Wind Zen Center the duration of the Practice Intensive is 5-6 weeks due to our being lay practice versus monastic practice. We have further altered the Practice Intensive structure to a hybrid attendance model that includes Zoom video participation for participants. Regardless of physical location, the intention is to encourage participation wherever you are and in whatever circumstances are present in your life.

Zazen is a daily practice. The Zendo is open during the Practice Intensive. Rev. Allison designs her zazen schedule that includes online participation. Refer to online documents for the Zoom dial in details.

If you plan on participating in the practice intensive, please read and sign the Practice Intensive Agreement and return to Rev. Val.

Schedule

  • October 1, Tuesday evening: Opening of the Practice Intensive & Shuso Ceremony led by Rev. Val

  • October 8, 15, 22, 29, Tuesday evenings: Rev. Allison is Doshi, Discussion Leader or gives a Dharma Talk on the Mahaparinibbana Sutra

  • October 2 – November 1: Zazen is offered online Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, 6:45 am – 7: 05 am PDT, followed by chanting the Heart Sutra. Zoom only.

  • October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Thursday mornings via Zoom or in the Zendo, 6:45 - 7:25 am PDT

  • Tea Offering to Sangha: Shuso to offer tea to Sangha. Date tbd.

  • Practice Interviews: This is an important role for Shuso who is now given permission by her teacher to conduct Practice Interviews with students. Please contact Rev. Allison to schedule an appointment.

  • October 12: One Day Sitting, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm PDT. Includes an Oryoki lunch

  • November 2: Half Day Sitting and closing of Practice Intensive with Dharma Combat: Rev. Val gives Dharma Talk. 8:00 am - 12:00 pm PDT.