Karenji Choir Performance at Zen Mountain Monastery
with Jody Hojin Kimmel, Sensei and Justin Ward Weber
December 10, 2023
Zen Chants are constant reminders that we practice together, we are one mind, one heart, one life. Even if we meditate alone, we are united with other awakened ones—not only with those in our immediate vicinity, but with all awakened beings from the past, present and future everywhere in the world.
—Kaz Tanahashi
On this Sunday, as part of the morning program, the Karenji Choir, having made their way from the Zen Center of New York City Temple in Brooklyn will perform a musical setting of a short text from Shantideva’s Way of the Bodhisattva. Please join us as we experience the joining of voices together to cultivate an attitude of goodwill for all beings.
The Karenji Choir was formed in September 2023 and is guided by Hojin Sensei and Justin Ward Weber. (See bios below)
Arrive by 11:45 am.
Please enter at the Sangha House and check in with the front door greeter when you arrive. Lunch will be served after the performance.
- If you have already registered for the December 10 Sunday Morning program at the Monastery, this performance is included. Please do not register for both.
This performance is by donation and all proceeds will go to the choir composer/artist. Thank you for your support!
Teachers
Jody Hojin Kimmel, Sensei received the priestly transmission (the transmission of the Precepts) from Daido Roshi, who began the process in 2009, and from Shugen Roshi, who completed the transmission in 2012. In 2017, she received full dharma transmission from Shugen Roshi. She serves as the Training Director for the Mountains and Rivers Order and Abbot of the Zen Center of NYC-Fire Lotus Temple . Hojin Sensei began her artistic career early and has taught drawing, ceramics, and painting, opening people up to the wonders and mysteries of the creative process and continues to offer Art Practices as part of her teaching. She has been in full-time residential training at the Monastery since 1990 and now shares her time at the Brooklyn temple.
Learn more about Jody Hojin Kimmel, Sensei
Justin Ward Weber (they/them) is a Black trans/non-binary composer, pianist, music director and mystic based in Brooklyn who practices at Fire Lotus Temple. Justin has a rich and diverse musical background, but what brings them the most joy is working with those who’ve not yet given their voice a chance to shine. They believe that anyone can enjoy making music and singing if given the space to express themselves.
Learn more about Justin Ward Weber