For those who wish to develop further in practice at Zenwest, we offer the Eldership Programme. To qualify for this year long focused programme of practice and study, a candidate must maintain membership in good standing with the Zenwest Buddhist Society for a minimum period of one year, and complete a minimum of two five-day intensives with Eshu Osho. For more information on the Eldership Programme, please contact the Centre.
To qualify for the Eldership Programme a candidate must:
- Be a Practice Council Member as defined in the Zenwest Religious Authorization Policy and Procedure(1yr).
- Be certified at the standard level of First Aid with CPR.
- Be certified at the basic level of Food Safe.
- Be actively participating in the development and well-being of the Zenwest Buddhist Society and its Sangha. (ie. Actively involved in Operational Team(s), strategic planning group, board of directors etc.)
- Be willing to accept greater responsibility for leadership as assigned within the scope of Zenwest programmes and activities.
To apply for the Eldership Programme a candidate must complete the written application and essay.
Successful completion of the Eldership Programme is based on the candidate:
- Arranging to meet with Eshu Osho to discuss the programme, and to review practice expectations as defined in Zenwest RAPP.
- Maintain Full Membership for the duration of the programme.
- Begin keeping a personal practice journal (for review with Eshu Osho).
- Attend one-on-one practice meetings with Eshu Osho at least once each month.
- Training in Zendo offices; Jikijitsu, Shoji, Densu, and Tenzo.
- Begin formal training in Ceremony.
- Attend quarterly Practice Council group meetings.
- Completing two five-day Zen intensives with Eshu Osho(at least once each year).
- Completing all requirements within two years.
Upon Successful Completion of the Eldership Programme a candidate will:
- Commit to fulfilling the responsibilities of an Elder during the Jukai Ceremony. This includes sewing a rakusu.
- Assume the position of Elder in the Zenwest Sangha. This will include responsibilities to ensure the development and continuation of operations and programmes at Zenwest.
- Maintenance of Eldership will require participation in half of all practice opportunities each year, including one five or more-day intensive.
The Eldership Programme does not include the cost of required certifications, robes or materials.