On Sunday, April 26th concluding the April Apple Blossom Sesshin, Shugen Sensei conferred the title of Dharma Holder to Zuisei Goddard. This indicates that she is nearing the completion of her formal training and has received the “Seal of Forbearance” from Sensei, expressing his intention to transmit the Dharma to her at the appropriate time.

The brief ceremony took place at the conclusion of morning service. Shugen Sensei offered a brief explanation of this transition and presented Zuisei with a dark blue rakusu. Zuisei then circumambulated the zendo in a walking bow to receive the sangha’s support.