September 23, 2014
Three Ordinands Greet Fall in Buddha’s Robe

In a ceremony on September 13, Zen Center students Michael McCord, Gentoku Smith and Zachary Smith were ordained by Urban Temple Dharma Teacher Ryushin Paul Haller amidst a full Buddha Hall of supporters at City Center. Here are a few select photos from that pivotal day. Michael and Gentoku have since returned to continue residence at Tassajara, and Zachary continues to teach and learn as a non-resident with the City Center sangha.

The ordinands make an initial offering before taking on their new clothes.

The ordinands make an initial offering before taking on new clothes.

A tiny bit of remaining hair is ceremonially surrendered.

A tiny bit of remaining hair is ceremonially surrendered.

Gentoku Smith, Michael McCord, Ryushin Paul Haller and Zachary Smith.

Gentoku Smith, Michael McCord, Ryushin Paul Haller and Zachary Smith.

Ordinands and Paul with City Center Abbot Rinso Ed Sattizahn and Senior Dharma Teacher Zenkei Blanche Hartman.

Ordinands and Paul with City Center Abbot Rinso Ed Sattizahn and Senior Dharma Teacher Zenkei Blanche Hartman.

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Photos by Shundo David Haye.