Summer Sit & Gathering

Hokoji looks forward to hosting the annual Phoenix Heart Summer Gathering, led by guiding teacher Ian Forsberg.

We will begin Thursday evening, August, 15th- and end on Monday mid day on August 19th.  A casual buffet dinner begins at 6:00 pm, Thursday evening, followed by orientation and evening meditation. Oryoki instruction, will be given to anyone who needs it.

We will follow a simple, formal sitting schedule in the zendo beginning Friday morning going through Saturday evening. Sunday, after morning zazen, we will be a time for cleanup, socializing, and enjoying each other’s company under the El Salto Mountain. We will say goodbye at noon on Monday.

The schedule is linked here. The zazen schedule is not mandatory; should one wish to skip a period or more of zendo time there are opportunities for quiet walks both on the Hokoji grounds as well as the neighborhood. The intention is to focus on being together in the spirit of 'silent illumination'. There will be opportunities to dialogue from that space during tea, and during the evening talk.

Simple vegetarian food will be served Wednesday evening through Monday breakfast. All meals will be served Oryoki-style in the dining room or zendo (except Monday breakfast). Those with dietary restrictions are responsible for managing their special food needs, please talk with the Cook (Tenzo) and Coordinator (Ino) ahead of time.

Please Note: 

• Hokoji encourages early registration because it helps with our overall planning.

• Lodging: Shared sleeping quarters are available in the nearby yurt or via camping. You may also choose to find lodging off-site.

• Dana (giving) is the Buddhist practice of cultivating generosity. In this context, it refers to an offering of gratitude for the teachings.

  • The suggested donation for the retreat is $65 per day. Please click on the “donate” link at the top of the webpage.

  • Teacher donations are not included in rates: Suggested donation for the teacher is $15 to $20 per day.

For more information, please contact us at hokojitaos@gmail.com or through the Contact page.