The Vimala Sangha was formed in June, 2003 by Dharma Teacher Lew Richmond, Lay Dharma Teacher Ed Sattizahn, and a group of senior practitioners in the Shunryu Suzuki Zen lineage.   Its mission is to teach and practice the traditional teachings of Zen Buddhism--precepts, Paramitas, koans, Sutras, and commentaries--in the context of modern American householder life.  We are committed to an ongoing mutual exploration of the deepest meaning of the Buddha's and Suzuki-Roshi's core teachings.

The Sangha includes practitioners of all levels--from complete beginner to very experienced--and all are welcome!

About Vimala Sangha's Teachers:

 Lew Richmond

Chikudo Lew Richmond is an ordained disciple of Zen Master Shunryu Suzuki, and a lineage holder in that tradition.   Beginning in 1967, for fifteen years he lived and trained at Tassajara Zen Monastery, San Francisco Zen Center, and Green Gulch Zen Temple, where he was its Head of Practice from 1977-1983.   He is the author of three books:    WORK AS A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE, A Practical Buddhist Approach to Inner Growth and Satisfaction on the Job; HEALING LAZARUS, A Buddhist's Journey from Near Death to New Life ; and A WHOLE LIFE'S WORK, Living Passionately, Growing Spiritually , published in February, 2004.  His personal website, with information about his books, music, and other activities, is www.lewisrichmond.com.

Ed Sattizahn

 

Ed Sattizahn's meeting  in 1970 with Suzuki Roshi inspired a life long practice of  Zen.  He trained at Tassajara Zen Monastery from 1973 to 1977, and San Francisco Zen Center from 1977 to 1982 during which time he was President for three years.  From 1983 to 2000 Ed was an executive in the microcomputer software field.  In 2002 was one of the co-founders of  The Vimala Sangha with Lew Richmond.  In 2003 he returned to formal Zen training as Shuso (head monk) at Green Gulch Zen Temple.  In 2005 he received Lay Dharma Entrustment in a ceremony at Vimala Sangha where he now teaches.