I am so happy to announce that my teacher, Rev. Jomyo Tanaka, has given the dates for his September visit to our Goma. This is a truly historic event as the last time Ajari Tanaka was in Connecticut was in 1978; during my birthday, he was taking a bus through CT on a trip across country after having just arrived in the US. Ajari-san will arrive Friday September 10th from Tokyo and depart monday September 13th. We will have a very special Goma on Saturday September 11th.
Please join us and enjoy the opportunity to meet a truly amazing ascended spiritual master. Rev. Tanaka’s story is so unique and interesting and is chronicled here:Rev. Tanaka’s Life Story
I first met Ajari Tanaka when I was 19 years old and now 13 years later, I am honored and truly shocked to welcome him to visit our goma to see how we are carrying his teachings out into the world. The notion of having Sensei present at the Goma is pretty nerve wracking to be honest but I am so happy he wants to visit us. Stay tuned for more details of the schedule of his visit as it gets closer.
Also on Sunday June 6th, we will hold a mini seminar for those interested in learning more of the traditions behind the Goma. We will explore and practice aspects of Shinto and the basic practices of Shingon as well as discuss the history and aspects of the Goma ritual. We will start at 1pm, practice for a few hours, have dinner, and then we will do a special short form of the Goma at sunset. Participants will be invited to sit in the sacred space around the fire altar. This is a perfect opportunity for those who have expressed interest in becoming more deeply involved with the Goma, anyone who would like to develop a core daily spiritual practice, or those who are just curious about Japanese spirituality. If you are interested in attending, please let me know.
Finally, we are starting a small group for martial arts training which will be meeting 1-2 times per week. If you are interested in practicing martial arts with us, please contact me. We generally train for around 1.5 to 2 hours and then sometimes we finish with the misogi water purification practice and/or a short form of the Goma. The training includes striking, grappling, body movement and rolling, and use of weapons.
Thank you all so much for your support.