Empty Cloud Sangha
Mission
To foster the teachings of Zen, as adapted to Western cultural forms and traditions; provide training in the disciplines, practices and devotions of Zen; and provide suitable surroundings, instruction and support for the teaching and practice of Zen. The Empty Cloud Sangha is incorporated as a private not for profit organization we practice Zen in the tradition of “Leere Wolke”
Empty Cloud – Formed by Willigis Jager
Sangha Founder
Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. Rōshi
Dr. Linehan has studied Spiritual Direction under the guidance of Rev. Tilden Edwards and Gerald May, M.D. and Christian Contemplation under the personal guidance of Fr. Willigis Jaeger, O.S.B., Koun Rōshi, a Benedictine Monk and a Zen master. She formally began Zen practice in 1986 as a student of Fr. Willigis Jaeger Rōshi and in 2002 as a student of Fr. Pat Hawk Rōshi (1942-2012). She has translated aspects of both Zen and contemplative practices into behaviorally specific instructions for mindfulness practice that can be taught to clients in psychotherapy. She received Dharma Transmission as a Zen Master in the Diamond Sangha (of the Harada-Yasutani tradition (Sanbo-Kyodan-School) from Pat Hawk in April, 2012. She was confirmed as a Zen Master in the Empty Cloud (Leere Wolke) Sangha by Willigis Jaeger in June, 2012.
Dr. Linehan is now fully retired, and no longer personally participates in retreats. Empty Cloud Sangha continues her legacy.
"There's never a good time for mindfulness...
...and there's never a bad time. Mindfulness is one of those things you simply do, because if you practice being aware - completely open to the universe, just as it is - you will transform your life in time."
Marsha M. Linehan, Roshi
"The practice of Zen Mindfulness is not about the destination.
It is the pathway itself. Every moment in everyday is an opportunity to experience freedom and happiness."
Randy Wolbert, Roshi