Our Teachers
Guides On The Zen Path
Appointment of Shona Pierce as an Apprentice Teacher
Kia Ora!
It is with great joy that I let you know of a special occasion about to happen during our Easter Sesshin at Staveley. After more than 20 years of training, Shona Pierce will be appointed as an Apprentice Teacher in the Diamond Sangha. She has completed koan study and has a clear Dharma eye.
I take great pride and satisfaction in appointing Shona as an Apprentice Teacher. It is a privilege to encounter and guide someone like Shona, who has dedicated her life to the Way since childhood and has practiced unwaveringly ever since.
Six years ago, in 2017, I appointed Shona as a Practice Leader. By that time, she had already established the Christchurch DS Zendo in her home for many years. She has demonstrated a wonderful ability to build and nurture a sangha - one of the prerequisites for becoming a teacher. Her strong, inspiring and compassionate leadership has helped to support and develop the Christchurch Diamond Sangha.
Shona’s presence radiates integrity, honesty, generosity and kindness. And her love for the Way is an inspiration for all.
Without a doubt, Shona will develop into an outstanding Zen teacher.
Arthur Wells, Roshi joins me in giving her our blessing for her path as a teacher.
Gassho
Mary Jaksch, Roshi
10 March 2023
It is with great joy that I let you know of a special occasion about to happen during our Easter Sesshin at Staveley. After more than 20 years of training, Shona Pierce will be appointed as an Apprentice Teacher in the Diamond Sangha. She has completed koan study and has a clear Dharma eye.
I take great pride and satisfaction in appointing Shona as an Apprentice Teacher. It is a privilege to encounter and guide someone like Shona, who has dedicated her life to the Way since childhood and has practiced unwaveringly ever since.
Six years ago, in 2017, I appointed Shona as a Practice Leader. By that time, she had already established the Christchurch DS Zendo in her home for many years. She has demonstrated a wonderful ability to build and nurture a sangha - one of the prerequisites for becoming a teacher. Her strong, inspiring and compassionate leadership has helped to support and develop the Christchurch Diamond Sangha.
Shona’s presence radiates integrity, honesty, generosity and kindness. And her love for the Way is an inspiration for all.
Without a doubt, Shona will develop into an outstanding Zen teacher.
Arthur Wells, Roshi joins me in giving her our blessing for her path as a teacher.
Gassho
Mary Jaksch, Roshi
10 March 2023
Mary Jaksch Roshi
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Mary received Dharma Transmission in March 2004 from Ross Bolleter Roshi (from Western Australia), becoming New Zealand's first home grown Zen teacher.
Mary lives in Nelson and leads Sesshin retreats in Canterbury and Otaki, and also teaches internationally. Contact: maryjaksch@gmail.com |
Glenn Wallis Roshi
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Glenn received Dharma Transmission on 5th December 2010 from Ross Bolleter Roshi at St Martin's Island, Dunedin.
Glenn leads the Dunedin Diamond Sangha Zen Group, which meets on Wednesday evenings. Glenn teaches Sesshin in Dunedin once or twice a year, and other places when appropriate. Contact: walglenn@gmail.com |
Arthur Wells Roshi
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Arthur received Dharma Transmission on the 2nd September 2012 from Ross Bolleter Roshi at Waipara.
Arthur leads the Christchurch Diamond Sangha Zen group that meets on Monday evenings. Arthur leads retreats with Mary Jaksch Roshi in Canterbury, and with Sean Weaver Sensei in Golden bay. Contact: arthurw@orcon.net.nz |
Sean Weaver Sensei
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Sean received permission to teach as an apprentice teacher (Sensei) from Arthur Wells Roshi in June 2015.
Sean teaches with the Christchurch and Golden Bay Zen Groups. Sean leads sesshin and retreats and workshops focusing on the link between Zen practice and social/environmental action. Contact: sean@ekos.co.nz |