Dharma Talk by James Ishmael Ford
Sunday, September 15, 11:00 a.m.
Via Zoom & In-person
8:30-9:00 a.m. Gate of Sweet Nectar Service/Monthly Memorial Service
9:00-9:35 Zazen
9:35-9:45 Outside Walking
9:45-10:20 Zazen
10:20-10:30 4 Vows, Bows, Closing Ceremony
11:00-12:15 p.m. Dharma Talk by James Ishmael Ford
INFO
Reflecting on more than fifty years of practice in Zen Buddhism, Unitarian Universalism, and other contemplative traditions, James Ishmael Ford invites us into a journey through the stages of spiritual development.
Lightly structured by the archetypal Buddhist oxherding images, Ford’s exploration is rooted in the Zen way while being deeply enriched by various strains of world mysticism. The book, sprinkled with insights and quotes from Buddhist, Daoist, and Christian traditions, serves as a map and a companion to spiritual seekers or pilgrims—whether within one religious tradition or cobbling together a way of one’s own. “Here is the most natural of all natural experiences,” writes Ford. “In the midst of our suffering, our longing, our desperation, we capture a glimpse. Something touches us. And with that, if we are lucky and really notice some movement of some spirit within us, we turn our attention to the intimate way.”
SPEAKER
JAMES ISHMAEL FORD has walked the spiritual path for more than fifty years. A Zen priest and a Unitarian Universalist minister, he has lived in monasteries and other spiritual communities, served as a parish minister and spiritual director, and has preached from the high pulpits of Old New England churches. His previous books include The Book of Mu, Zen Master Who?, and If You’re Lucky, Your Heart Will Break.
EVENT FEE
This event is provided without a fee, but please consider making a small donation to ZCLA to support our programs.
(If you have any questions, please contact Myoki at programsteward@zcla.org)