an Online Workshop with Melissa Myozen Blacker, Rōshi, and David Dae An Rynick, Rōshi
Dates for Spring 2026
- January 17th
- February 21st
- March 28th
- April 18th
- May 30th
Buddhism 101 Workshop : 10:30am -12:30pm
You are warmly invited to join Melissa Rōshi and David Rōshi in an exploration of the roots of Zen practice as taught in early Zen Buddhist texts.
These ancient teachings can support and deepen our practice of paying attention moment after moment in our daily lives and in our formal Zen practice. Using guided meditations, talks, text exploration, and group dialogue, we will consider the Zen perspective on these important basic Buddhist teachings.
This winter we will be exploring the text called Xinxinming – Verses on the Faith Mind, a classic text that has inspired generations of Zen students. Attributed to Zen’s third Chinese Ancestor, Jianzhi Sengcan, this lyrical poem points to the boundless Dharma that is always and everywhere present. In our study of this text, we will look into the possibilities of moving through the ordinary world of duality into the one unified and liberated life. As Sencan says, “The Great Way is not difficult for those who have no preferences.”
During our April and May workshops, we will be looking into the Four Bodhisattva Vows, the short text that we recite at the end of practice periods: Beings are numberless; I vow to free them. Delusions are inexhaustible; I vow to end them. Dharma gates are boundless; I vow to enter them. The Buddha Way is unsurpassable; I vow to embody it. Through our study together in Buddhism 101, we will learn about the origins of these vows, explore their deeper meanings, and discover how they can guide us to live lives as Bodhisattvas, “wisdom beings” who devote their lives to the well-being of everyone.If you’ve been curious about the Temple and about Zen Buddhism, this monthly online series is a great opportunity to learn more. If you’re already part of the Temple community, it provides a space for connection and community, as well as an opportunity to learn more about our Boundless Way Zen practice. All are welcome!
You can attend any one or all of these workshops.
Pre-registration is required for the Buddhism 101 workshop. Register using the form below.
Suggested donation per session:
- $35 Boundless Way members / $50 non-members
Suggested donation for whole series:
- $150 Boundless Way members / $220 non-members
