Taking Part in the Gathering, term 1 2026

Dear Bodhisattvas

Walking with the ancestors (continued)

Each term of Taking Part offers a series of talks, free to develop depth in a line of Zen inquiry across time, while also coming to meet what’s happening in our lives and in the world in the light of dharma. Last year, we walked up and told some of our very earliest Zen ancestors -- half lost to time and myth -- “Don’t be a stranger!” And Bodhidharma, Sengcan and Huike, among others, broke their silence and let themselves begin to be known personally as old friends and guides on the path. We’ll continue this deep conversation with more of the old masters -- stopping awhile with this one, crossing over with that one - learning to pick up and truly savour the unique ‘tune’ of their expression of the Dharma within one vast shared song of the Way.

Prepare to be delighted, surprised and even shocked by how directly they speak to you, straight into our own (equally) dangerous time! And in between, replenish your practice and pursue your questions even further, in the generous space of the Quiet Sits.

Roshi Susan Murphy.

Please note to join this gathering, you must be a member of Zen Open Circle,  https://www.zenopencircle.org.au/member-fees