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Zen Peacemaker Order: Overview: Curriculum : Recommended Practices

Introductory Studies:

  • To begin the training in Zen Peacemaking, all students are asked to:

    a. establish a daily Zazen practice
    b. stop and observe one minute at noon (local time) dedicated to world peace
    c. observe a monthly
    Day of Reflection
    d. practice
    council at least once a month
    e. attend a
    plunge (Bearing Witness Retreat or sesshin or similar) at least once a year.

Becoming a Buddhist

Taking refuge in Buddha, Dharma, Sangha.

Completing the following:

  • The Rule of The Order - an in-depth study working with a Mentor
  • A Taking Refuge Workshop with a Mentor

Becoming a Priest

Peacemakers who wish to take vows as a novices must first have passed through the Rites of Entering the ZPS and of Becoming a Buddhist. Then, a period of a least one year of working with a Mentor on discerning one's reasons for taking priestly vows. Following this discernment, the Peacemaker is expected to study with Mentors in the following areas:

  • Liturgy studies related to Gassho, Bowing, Altars, Meditation Hall
  • The recommended liturgy of the Zen Peacemaker Order
  • Study and sewing of the Robe
  • Foundation studies in pastoral work
  • Foundation studies in the history of Buddhist clergy
  • Personal exploration of taking the vows and creation of personal vows

Once these studies are complete, the Peacemaker may take the Novice Priest Vows and begin the studies of becoming a full Priest.

This level of study takes into account the different kinds of priest work that candidates may wish to study and specialize in. For example, some priests will wish to study traditional temple liturgy and become adept in that area. Others may wish to specialize in pastoral care, family work, social action, etc.. For this reason, the training must be devised by the novice candidate priest and an appropriate Mentor.Even the vows will be tailored to the specific training of the priest. Still there are certain global practices and studies expected of priests in Level II:

  • Study of Life and Death Rites of Passage
  • Supervised pastoral counseling experience
  • Study of Zen and Buddhist History and Literature
  • Integration of the Four Commitments into one's area of training
  • Chris Queen's text on Engaged Buddhism in the West
  • Sallie King's and Chris King's text on Engaged Buddhism in Asia

 

Doctrinal Studies

Experiential Studies of Zen Principles

Field Studies and Internships

  • Working with a Mentor, students may devise a study project of their own.It is recommended that you discuss the project with your guide or Root Teacher, who may help you find an appropriate Mentor.

Historical Studies

 

Interfaith Studies

  • Peacemakers are encouraged to seek out interfaith events in your community. Some ZPS Training Centers offer regular Interfaith Activities.

Liturgical Studies

General Liturgy

  • Gate of Sweet Nectar

Special Liturgy

Professional Studies

Textual Studies

World Peacemaking Studies


177 Ripley Road | Montague, MA 01351 | Phone: (413) 367-2080 | 2007 Zen Peacemakers