In a Soto Zen training temple, there is often a person who is entrusted with the training of the sangha, assisting other senior teachers and the abbot. At Zenkei-ji, Inconceivable Joy temple, this person may be a priest or a lay person whose practice is mature and who knows ceremonies and procedures intimately. This person supports the Ino and doanryo in formal training and the sangha as a whole by being an example of practice and a resource supporting them with guidance in the forms, and individual practice discussion.
I am happy to announce that, after consulting the practice leadership of AZC and discussion with the Board, I have invited Anzan Chris Azbil to serve as Tanto. We will have a brief ceremony on April 25 after regular service to offer him this position and to take his seat.
Chris is a long-time resident who has served as Ino and Shuso as well as work leader and board member. The position will also support Chris in deepening his practice in service to the sangha and in support of the Guiding Teacher. Please join us for this ceremony and offer Anzan your support!
The membership potluck brunch and meeting will follow immediately after.
In gassho,
Choro