We are glad to announce that Rev. Master Meian Elbert gave Dharma Transmission to Rev. Dilys Cromack and that Rev. Master Jisho Perry presented Rev. Veronica Snedaker with a Teacher of Buddhism certificate and purple Kesa on April 24. Rev. Vera Giordano, who led trainees as Head Novice for the Spring Term, successfully completed the Head Novice’s Dharma Ceremony near the end of our April monastic retreat by answering questions based on her chosen text from Great Master Dogen’s Shoji.   She also gave a Dharma talk to the monks on the subject of Bowing. We offer our congratulations and best wishes to all these monks as they continue in their training.

Rev. Masters Kodo Kay and Ando Mueller took part in a multi-faith presentation of teaching and information during an Earth Day celebration organized by a local Baha’i member in Mt. Shasta. They sat at a table together with representatives of other faith groups including Catholic, Episcopalian and Baha’i, each offering printed faith statements on care of the planet. Rev. Masters Kodo and Ando stated some of Rev. Master Jiyu’s teachings and practices such as recycling and conservation of resources.

Several dozen congregation members, family and friends joined us on May 20 to celebrate the Festival of Wesak in celebration of Shakyamuni Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and teaching. In addition to the Wesak Festival ceremony, the weekend included ringing of the temple bell 108 times, and a festive “picnic” (indoors due to the threat of rain). The previous evening featured special musical invocations and readings from The Light of Asia by Sir Edwin Arnold. It was lovely to spend this significant occasion in the Buddhist year with all who came to join us.

Wesak Altar with elephant

Rev. Master Astor Douglas led a half-day retreat at the Bear River Meditation Group in April. She offered basic instruction in Serene Reflection meditation and introduced the place of ceremonial in the practice. The morning included meditation, ceremonies, coffee and tea and the opportunity for questions and discussion.

Rev. Master Ando Mueller spoke with the World Religions class taught by Marty Zottola at Rogue River College in Grants Pass, Oregon in May.