Buddhist ceremonial has developed over the centuries as a means of expressing gratitude for the Three Treasures of Buddha, Dharma and Sangha ... our Serene Reflection (Soto Zen) tradition also places particular emphasis on ceremonial as mindfulness training in its dynamic or active aspect. Through concentrating body, speech and mind in ceremonial form, we help cleanse our karma, develop aspects of the enlightened mind, and learn to live and work in harmony with others.
Rev. Master Oswin Hollenbeck "Buddhist Festival Ceremonies"
Ceremonies Rev. Master Jiyu-Kennett's legacy includes the translation of a rich treasury of Serene Reflection Meditation Tradition Scriptures into English, as well as Buddhist chants and invocations set to Western chants and hymn tunes. This part of her legacy makes the Teaching more directly accessible to the Western heart. Building on this legacy, we have continued to create and add to our liturgical music and chants. Available here are audio files andpdf pamphlets of each ceremony including sheet music and video files of various Scriptures and Ceremonies as recorded at Shasta Abbey. Music and text may be downloaded, printed and distributed as long as no changes are made to the original. Otherwise, all rights reserved. Select “Listen” to hear the ceremony. To download the files, right click (control/click on Mac) and select “Download Linked File”.
Other ceremonies available at the Abbey include traditional weddings, as
well as funerals for humans and for animals. Similarly we offer memorial ceremonies for those who have died, including those who have died in difficult circumstances. For information in arranging any of these services, please contact the Shasta Abbey Sacristan at sacristy@shastaabbey.org