Sangha News Journal
Last week Abbot Steve’s pain level increased significantly, and hospice care was unable to relieve the pain, so he went to the hospital. Now he is at home with a pump to automatically deliver medication at regular intervals, but the situation is still quite delicate and challenging to manage. He is in good spirits, but the cancer continues to progress very rapidly.
Thank you, as always, for sending your good thoughts and wishes.
What is a Practice Period actually like? In the first installment of SFZC’s new Practice Period interview series, Valerie describes her experience.
From Zen's female ancestors to the future of practice, Kathie Fischer reflects on the enduring lessons from 50 years of Zen.
Tabreez Govani shares his journey of Zen practice and volunteering to address the challenges of homelessness in San Francisco.
San Francisco Zen Center has embarked on a large, much-needed renovation project at 300 Page Street (City Center).
“I’m trying to convey our practice in everyday relatable terms, so that our Zen tradition is understood for what it is—one of passion, joy, and inclusivity.”
Come participate in residential practice in the newly revitalized Beginner’s Mind Temple!
“Zen Central is a new approach for San Francisco Zen Center; it has restructured the way we do things.”
“I like the idea that I’m helping take care of SFZC, including our wider sangha. It’s one way to save all beings.”
Congratulations to Mary Stares, who received Dharma Transmission from Rinso Ed Sattizahn at Tassajara Zen Mountain Center on July 19.
Since 2022, Kevin Starbard has produced ten Butoh performances at SFZC, enriching the community with this avant-garde Japanese dance form.
Dear Abbot Steve,
I bow to your courage and clarity as you “continue to respectfully engage in the process of dying” and to share this constantly changing learning and teaching with the extended sangha. I have fond and powerful memories of a simple lunch shared with you on the deck at Green Gulch years ago — your reminder that performing a task mindfully is not contradictory to doing it quickly! I cherish that moment with you, and am deeply moved as I follow your progress in this latest form of practice. Wishing you ease and compassion — grateful for your wisdom and example.
Susan McIntosh
God bless you. Take whatever pain medication you need or want!
Listen for us singing…
Deep bow of true thanks…
Ease and love…
Dear Abbot Stucky, My thoughts are with you as you experience this sudden journey and I appreciate the talks and thoughts you have sent to the Sangha.
I recently read Sushila Blackman’s wonderful book “Graceful Exits” and I pass along Basho’s poem, which you may know:
Sick, on a journey,
Yet over withered fields
Dreams wander on.
Somehow it seems comforting to me and I hope to you.
With deep bows for your service to all beings,
Margaret
We are keeping a candle burning in our hearts through this difficult journey. My husband Kotoku Ray Crivello, a long time friend, would like to visit if this is possible.
With palms together,
Colleen
Hi Abbot Steve – very sorry the pain is troublesome. Many days I pray that a little may be sent my way – I have a little threshold gap to spare at the moment. Then when I feel an ache, I wonder if its from you and smile. Christine and Ren’s rakasus are coming along. I’m watching the thread, noticing the fabric.
Love to you,
john
I have been sitting more zazen lately. Here, images of you are often present—a feeling of you. Then my whole body is one big tear I am so grateful for the passion, direction and intention of your life and it’s availability. Footprints in the vast snow. I am singing a song for you today!
Love, Mary Cunov
Steve, didn’t you sing us something called “Boddhisattva Blues” at the “Alumni Reunion” at Tassajara in April 2012? And I believe you wrote it? Is it taped and online anywhere? I just searched on YouTube and didn’t find it. It would be wonderful if it could be posted there.