Priest Training and Practicing at Tassajara 2025

Dear Friends & Supporters of Tassajara Practice,

Just emerging from the 112 Autumn Ango at Tassajara Zen Mountain Monastery and the experience is still beyond words…..Two roles, one body, 30 monks, 90 days.

It was a time of, giver, receiver, and gift and living the interconnectedness of it all. Serving in two roles added yet another fold to this practice period. Chosen first to serve as Jisha, or attendant Abbot Mako, Residing Abbot of Tassaraja, my duties began with preparing the founders hall for the morning jundo and sharing of tea with her before zazen, and continued throughout the day working as a ‘gatekeeper’ of sorts to the head Abbot. My other role was Work Leader where I assigned and oversaw all the various work positions throughout the monastery from cutting vegetables, doing dishes, and preparing meals to chopping wood and raking leaves… all the beautiful and mundane tasks that take place each day in the valley.

Along with these daily commitments to Zen practice, leadership also encouraged me to continue my priest training by remaining in the Valley for the year of 2025. This decision resounds deeply and truly with me. And I see it reflected in the support and encouragement of Abbot Mako, my ordination teachers and others who I counseled about this next step on my path.

With this calling also comes the need for financial means to support me beyond the 3 months I originally planned for, to now a need of financial support for 16 months of Zen studies that I have been strongly encouraged to undertake. Deep breath. Deep bow.

Like generations of monks before me, I hold out my bowl in a humble request for the support I need to continue my study and service. Donations can be given now, given in the spring, summer or fall or set up as a monthly donation.

It is with great gratitude that I thank you for supporting me on this continuing journey to serve, care for, love and dedicate my life to Zen practice and the spiritual awakening for the benefit of all beings.

Bowing in friendship, Rev. Dōjin Haas