Lotus Root Training is a one-year period of committed study and practice in the fundamental teachings and practice of Buddha-dharma. The program is recommended for those new to the practice, and/or those who seek to improve their discipline within an existing practice.
The program consists of:
• Establishment of individualized and disciplined meditation & contemplative practice
• Weekly student-teacher meetings to review one’s practice (deokcham)
• Introduction to the Buddha, Buddhist Schools, and Sutra study
(A syllabus is provided/many of the texts exist in pdf form.)
• Training in seon practice forms and participation in group meditation sessions
The Lotus Root Training program requires individual commitment and practice application. The intent of the program is to help practitioners develop for themselves a strong foundation from which one is able to investigate mind-heart fearlessly and clearly and to awaken from delusion. Program registration is required. If you have further questions about the program please contact us.
Three Refuge & Five Precepts Profession of Vows
Taking refuge in the Triple Gem (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) and making a commitment to live in accord with the Five Precepts (guiding means) of ethical conduct is the formal way in which one becomes a Buddhist lay disciple. Students who are registered in the one-year Lotus Root Training program, and have undergone Refuge & Precepts Study are eligible to make Three Refuge and Five Precepts profession of vows conducted within a formal ceremony witnessed by the White Lotus Haven Zen of Connecticut Sangha.
Ongoing Study — Year 2 and Year 3 Training
Additional training stages are available for students who have fully completed the Lotus Root Training period, have professed Three Refuge and Five Precept vows, and are active sangha participants, this includes those discerning lay Diaconate Profession, or Monastic Profession of vows.
“The pure lotus growing in muddy water is a metaphor for enlightenment. The lotus arises from all its impediments. It actually needs the impurity of the water for its nourishment. In the same way, in our own personal development, we can’t just work with what we like about ourselves. We have to work with our muddy water. We have to work with our problems and hang-ups because that’s where the action is.” — From Instructions to the Cook: A Zen Master’s Lessons in Living a Life That Matters, by Bernie Glassman & Rick Fields