EAST-WEST PROGRAM
A PATH THAT BRIDGES TWO SPIRITUAL TRADITIONS
Fr. Thomas Hand, S.J. (“Hando”) founded the East-West Meditation Program at Mercy Center in 1985, after having lived nearly 30 years in Japan. During his time in Japan, Fr. Hand taught haiku poetry, and studied Zen meditation with Yamada Koun Rosh, who encouraged Western students to learn Zen as a way of deepening their Judeo-Christian faith. Hando’s groundbreaking work laid a strong foundation for the continuity of the Program.
EAST-WEST MEDITATION
The East-West Meditation at Mercy Center honors all faith traditions, and encourages all meditative practices that lead to a compassionate heart.
EVENING MEDITATION
Until Mercy Center reopens, Wednesday evening meditation takes place from 7:00–8:30 p.m. PDT in live Zoom sessions led by Sr. Judy Cannon from the Rose Room zendo.
EAST-WEST
CENTER DAY
Center Day is on hold until Mercy Center reopens.
UPCOMING EAST-WEST PROGRAMS
- Silent Meditation Retreat with The Rev. Alice Cabotaje – April 1-4, 2021
- Summer Zen Sesshin with The Rev. Alice Cabotaje – June 11-13, 2021
- Summer East West Silent Retreat with Nona Strong – August 20-22, 2021
- Autumn Zen Sesshin with Tony Tackitt – November 11-14, 2021
- New Year’s Zen Meditation Retreat with Nona Strong – December 27, 2021 to January 1, 2022
HAIKU POETRY GROUP
The Four Seasons Haiku Kai meets quarterly to share and learn about haiku.
All who are interested in this fun and meditative approach to writing haiku are welcome. No pre-registration required.
The Four Seasons
Haiku Kai
Haiku meetings are on hold during Mercy Center’s temporary closure.
If you would like to share your own haiku on the theme of “Clouds & Sky” with the other haiku group members, send an E-mail to mc@sistersofmercy.org
