Saturday, February 28, 2 – 5 pm, Green Gulch Farm
The loss of a child, whether recent or in the past, always impacts our lives indelibly. No matter how the child dies, born or unborn, whether through illness, accident, miscarriage, abortion, or suicide, young or old, we are left with a deep and complex grief. Often, this grief seeks to find expression in our lives.
Jizo Bodhisattva is a Buddhist figure known as the protector of children and travelers—and particularly of children crossing over from this life. One of the most beloved figures of Japanese Buddhism, Jizo statues are common on roadways, in parks, and in cemeteries, where items are placed on or near a statue as an offering to Jizo to help guide and protect their loved ones as they make the passage from life into death.
This afternoon ceremony originates in the tradition of Jizo Bodhisattva. Our time together begins by quietly creating handmade offerings. We then say goodbye in a ceremony of remembrance and letting go. Our time together ends with a procession to the Jizo Garden, where we tie paper prayers in the bamboo forest with the intention of nurturing the children who have died and the beings who continue to live.
We wish to expressly acknowledge the prevalence of infant loss, miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, babies that were never conceived, and the grief of infertility. Anyone who has experienced any kind of child loss is welcome to join us.
Friends and families often appreciate attending together. Children of all ages are welcome to attend. We appreciate your care with young children who may need encouragement during periods of silence.
- General Ticket Price: $75
- Member (Become an SFZC Member): $68
- Sliding Scale 1: $45
- Sliding Scale 2: $20
San Francisco Zen Center is committed to making Zen practice and the Dharma accessible to all who seek it by offering both a General support fund and a dedicated BIPOC support fund. Please email supportfunds@sfzc.org for more information BEFORE signing up.
Or call 415-354-0360.