Saturday Community (Talk by Rick 'Kogen' Sparks) - ON SITE (in Zendo)

Talk will be given by Rick Kogen (光現) Sparks, a student of Nyoze Kwong-roshi, following 10:30 am zazen.

Rick began practicing at SMZC - Genjo-ji four years ago, during the shelter-in-place period. In 2024 he received the precepts in the Jukai ceremony and was given the Buddhist name Kogen (Illuminating Present). In his 20s, he studied Zen in Santa Barbara in a group led by two of Suzuki-roshi's older students. During this time, he attended sesshins at both Soto and Rinzai centers. His early interests were surfing and later hatha yoga, which he practiced for 25 years. He is now retired from working as a vocational rehabilitation counselor/trainer but still manages a residence for individuals with

developmental disabilities in Marin County, CA.