This last autumn Mr Kazuo Morimoto spent a month at Kanshoji. Zen monk, ordained by master Deshimaru, he has studied the Shobogenzo for forty years. During his stay he gave a weekly lecture on that work to the residents of Kanshoji.

In November, Mr Imamura Roshi, a recognised lecturer and leader of Soto Zen in Europe, gave a series of teisho on the Bendowa during the course of a weekend of practise and teaching.

Yoko Orimo, a university professor, has devoted her life to a French translation of master Dogen’s work. In January she gave a series of introductory lectures on the Shobogenzo.

Several Japanese monks from Eiheiji - founded by Dogen - and Sojiji - founded by Keizan - enthusiastically shared our daily life at the monastery for several months.

As for us, we wish to return to the source of Dogen’s teaching and three of us will be travelling to Japan to stay at Chuoji. Minamizawa Roshi is currently the abbot at that monastery.

In July, the superior of Kanshoji as well as the senior disciples will be joining them for the hossenshiki - Dharma combat - ceremony of Hotetsu Laure Scemama.

“So long as the monks come together the sangha will prosper”
Shakyamuni Buddha