To support one another through a process of grieving and honoring, we will gather for a ceremony in our Jizo garden. Jizo represents the compassionate presence of “Earth Store” Bodhisattva and is viewed as a guide and protector, particularly for children, who have died. For this ceremony we welcome anyone grieving loss of a loved one, including loss through miscarriage or abortion, sickness, suicide, accidents or violence. We also welcome those who have lost pets dear to them. Our time together will include making a personal token of remembrance, as well as sharing tea and refreshments after the ceremony. Feel free to bring a picture or photo or personal belonging of your loved one to include on the altar.
The ceremony will be led by two Berkeley Zen Center priests:
Gerry Oliva, MD, MPH, is a pediatrician and an associate professior at UCSF
Judy Fleischman, BCC, MS, is a board-certified chaplain with HealthCare Chaplaincy Network (HCCN)
- All BZC members, members of other Buddhist sanghas and neighborhood residents are invited to attend.
- There is no fee. Donations (dana) are welcome.
For more information and to sign up by phone or email, please contact Gerry at gryoliva@gmail.com or (510) 652-7217 or www.berkeleyzencenter.org