ORDAINING
 

As one's practice deepens, one may come to be grateful for those who have carried it to this moment, and one might begin to sense an eagerness to pay it forward by living as a vessel of the Dharma for those who will follow. In such a case, one might consider ordaining as a priest.

​

In our lineage priesthood ordination is relatively rare, for it is relatively rare to find a person with the depth of practice and insight, the soundness of character, and the strength of commitment to undertake it. Still, they are to be found, and our tradition has continued because we have been fortunate to have men and women who have stepped up to do what they can to pass it on. 

​

Ordination in our lineage is an offer of dedication and responsibility, not a marker of rank. It is entirely distinct from sanctioning as a teacher. It is an entry into a life of selfless service to the Three Treasures out of a wellspring of compassion for all still subject to dukkha.  

​

If one begins to feel a tug in the direction of ordaining, a first place to start is our lineage's understanding of ordination and the ordaining process outlined here.