Rinzai-ji Zen Center

### Context Profile for Rinzai-ji Zen Center

1. **Organization Mission & Cause:**
   - The Rinzai-ji Zen Center is dedicated to the practice and teaching of Zen Buddhism. Their mission is to provide a supportive environment for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Zen through meditation, retreats, and community engagement. They emphasize the importance of mindfulness and the teachings of Zen masters, particularly focusing on the legacy of Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen.

2. **Type of Activities:**
   - **Retreats and Sesshin:** The center hosts various retreats, including the Darumaki Sesshin, which commemorates Bodhidharma's death. These retreats involve intensive meditation, Dharma talks, and opportunities for personal interviews with Zen teachers.
   - **Community Programs:** Regular events and teachings are offered to the community, fostering a space for individuals to practice Zen together.
   - **Workshops and Classes:** Educational programs are available to introduce participants to Zen practices and philosophies.

3. **Tone of Voice:**
   - The tone of the Rinzai-ji Zen Center's communications is **friendly**, **supportive**, and **inspiring**. The language is accessible, aiming to welcome individuals of all backgrounds to Zen practice. There is a balance between formality, especially when discussing teachings, and a warm, inviting tone when addressing participants.

4. **Emoji Usage:**
   - The organization does not appear to use emojis in their communications. Their content maintains a professional and respectful tone, which aligns with the traditional nature of Zen practices.

5. **Key Facts:**
   - **Founding Information:** Specific founding details are not prominently featured on the website, but the center is rooted in the teachings of Zen Buddhism.
   - **Scale:** The center has a robust schedule of activities, with 19 total forms and 22 email campaigns indicating active engagement with their community.
   - **Impact Metrics:** While specific metrics are not detailed, the organization emphasizes participation in retreats and community events, suggesting a focus on engagement and personal growth.
   - **Volunteer Information:** There is mention of work exchange or reduced fees for those experiencing financial hardship, indicating a commitment to inclusivity.

6. **Writing Guidelines:**
   - **Clarity and Simplicity:** Use clear and straightforward language to communicate ideas, ensuring accessibility for all readers.
   - **Respectful and Inviting:** Maintain a tone that is respectful of Zen traditions while being inviting to newcomers.
   - **Structured Information:** Present information in a well-organized manner, using headings and bullet points where appropriate to enhance readability.
   - **Personal Connection:** Incorporate personal touches, such as addressing readers directly and acknowledging their journey in Zen practice.

This context profile provides a comprehensive overview of the Rinzai-ji Zen Center, enabling AI assistants to generate tailored and relevant content that aligns with the organization's mission and values.

LXCL:A Guided Beginner Series

Tea 101: The Fundation of Usucha (Okeiko)

LXCL:One time drop-in to enjoy tea ceremony and observe Okeiko

Tea 101: The Fundation of Usucha (Drop-In)

LXCL:A Relaxed Introduction to the Japanese Tea Ceremony - Lean the fundamental principles of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony and practice Otemae.

Open Tea Practice at Rinzaiji (Okeiko)

LXCL:One time drop-in to enjoy tea ceremony

Open Tea Practice (Drop-in)

<div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">While our classes are open to all, they are tailored to provide in-depth instruction in Chado/Sado, allowing students to grasp the fundamental principles of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony and practice Otemae*. However, even if you simply wish to savor the serene ambiance and partake in the tea ceremony, you are more than welcome to join us.</div> <div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;"> </div><div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">* In the Japanese tea ceremony, &quot;Otemae&quot; refers to the formalized procedures and etiquette observed by the host and guests before, during, and after the serving of tea. It includes actions such as the preparation of utensils, the purification of the tea container, the proper handling of the tea whisk, and the respectful gestures and movements performed by both the host and the guests. Otemae is crucial for maintaining the solemn and serene atmosphere of the tea ceremony and demonstrating respect for the tea, the utensils, and each other.</div> Tea 101: Foundation of Usucha is a beginner-friendly, 10-session guided series designed to introduce you step by step to the art of making usucha (thin tea) in a traditional tea ceremony style. Each session focuses on one new element, allowing you to gradually learn the full process&mdash;from the very basics to completing a full preparation. The course also includes learning essential tea ceremony etiquette from the guest&rsquo;s perspective. You may join the series at any time.<div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;"> </div><div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">Classes:&nbsp; </div>Tea 101: The Fundation of Usucha&nbsp;A Guided Beginner SeriesDates:&nbsp;Please click Here to reserve your classes.Class Fee:&nbsp;$25 for taking a class&nbsp;$10 for drop-in to enjoy tea&nbsp; Open Tea Practice at RinzaijiA Relaxed Introduction to the Japanese Tea Ceremony Dates:&nbsp;Sunday | February 15 (Cancelled), March 22, April 19, May 17, June 21, July 26, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15, December 20 Time: 1:00-2:30 p.m.Class Fee:&nbsp;$25 for taking a class&nbsp;$10 for drop-in to enjoy tea&nbsp; <div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">Sign Up Etiquette:</div>Please register online at least three days before the class. If you&rsquo;re signing up within three days of the class, kindly contact us by email. <div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;"><div fr-original-style="font-weight:400;box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-weight:400;box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">Attire:</div><div fr-original-style="box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">Please dress long skirt if possible and wear white socks or tabi. We discourage jeans or short skirts and kindly request the removal of jewelry and watches. Additionally, we ask attendees to refrain from wearing strong perfume and to tie up or secure long hair.</div></div><div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;"> </div><div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">Essential Tools:</div><div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">Participants are encouraged to have a &ldquo;sensu&rdquo; (fan), &ldquo;fukusa&rdquo; (silk cloth), and &ldquo;kaishi&rdquo; (paper) for Okeiko. If you do not possess these items, they will be available for purchase upon your request.&nbsp;</div><div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;"> </div><div fr-original-style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;" style="font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;text-align:start;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;text-decoration:none;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:rgb(0, 0, 0);box-sizing:inherit;line-height:1.5;">We look forward to your participation in our upcoming classes, where together we can go deeper into the artistry and tranquility of the Japanese tea ceremony.</div>

Dear <span contenteditable="false" data-custom-variable="{{firstname}}" fr-original-class="fr-deletable styled-tag-chip " fr-original-style="" style="background-color: rgb(248, 248, 255); border: 1px solid rgb(191, 191, 255); border-radius: 4px; color: rgb(42, 42, 196); padding: 1px 8px; font-size: 11px; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: anywhere; -webkit-user-select: none; box-sizing: inherit;">First name <span contenteditable="false" data-custom-variable="{{lastname}}" fr-original-class="fr-deletable styled-tag-chip " fr-original-style="" style="background-color: rgb(248, 248, 255); border: 1px solid rgb(191, 191, 255); border-radius: 4px; color: rgb(42, 42, 196); padding: 1px 8px; font-size: 11px; display: inline-block; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: anywhere; -webkit-user-select: none; box-sizing: inherit;">Last name, Thank you very much for registering for the upcoming tea class at Rinzai-ji. We are delighted to welcome you. Please make a note of the day and time you selected when registering. On the day of the class, we kindly ask you to arrive at least 5&ndash;10 minutes early to settle in. ⸻ Access &amp; Parking All visitors must enter through the alley-side gate on Cimarron Street. Directions for Entry:&nbsp; &nbsp; &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;From Cimarron Street, turn into the alley beside the Zen Center.&nbsp; &nbsp; &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Drive north through the alley until you see our wooden black gate on the right, along the white wall.&nbsp; &nbsp; &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;The gate will be open for class. Parking Options:&nbsp; &nbsp; 1. &nbsp; &nbsp;Along the bamboo wall immediately after entering the gate. Kindly leave some room for other cars.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;In the back courtyard near the Tea Room (recommended if you prefer to park closer).&nbsp; &nbsp; &bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;To access this, continue driving straight through the courtyard toward the 25th Street side of the property. ⸻ Tea Room Location The Tea Room is located in the back courtyard, closest to 25th Street. After parking, walk toward the back of the property; the Tea Room entrance will be clearly visible and open for you. ⸻ If you have any questions before class, please feel free to reach out. We look forward to having tea together soon. Warm regards,Myōren-----------------------------Temple DirectorRinzai-ji Zen Center2505 Cimarron StreetLos Angeles, CA 90018323.732.2263www.rinzaiji.org

<div>While our classes are open to all, they are tailored to provide in-depth instruction in Chado/Sado, allowing students to grasp the fundamental principles of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony and practice Otemae*. However, even if you simply wish to savor the serene ambiance and partake in the tea ceremony, you are more than welcome to join us.</div> <div> </div><div>* In the Japanese tea ceremony, "Otemae" refers to the formalized procedures and etiquette observed by the host and guests before, during, and after the serving of tea. It includes actions such as the preparation of utensils, the purification of the tea container, the proper handling of the tea whisk, and the respectful gestures and movements performed by both the host and the guests. Otemae is crucial for maintaining the solemn and serene atmosphere of the tea ceremony and demonstrating respect for the tea, the utensils, and each other.</div> Tea 101: Foundation of Usucha is a beginner-friendly, 10-session guided series designed to introduce you step by step to the art of making usucha (thin tea) in a traditional tea ceremony style. Each session focuses on one new element, allowing you to gradually learn the full process—from the very basics to completing a full preparation. The course also includes learning essential tea ceremony etiquette from the guest’s perspective. You may join the series at any time.<div> </div><div>Classes:  </div>Tea 101: The Fundation of Usucha A Guided Beginner SeriesDates: Please click Here to reserve your classes.Class Fee: $25 for taking a class $10 for drop-in to enjoy tea  Open Tea Practice at RinzaijiA Relaxed Introduction to the Japanese Tea Ceremony Dates: Sunday | February 15 (Cancelled), March 22, April 19, May 17, June 21, July 26, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15, December 20 Time: 1:00-2:30 p.m.Class Fee: $25 for taking a class $10 for drop-in to enjoy tea  <div>Sign Up Etiquette:</div>Please register online at least three days before the class. If you’re signing up within three days of the class, kindly contact us by email. <div><div>Attire:</div><div>Please dress long skirt if possible and wear white socks or tabi. We discourage jeans or short skirts and kindly request the removal of jewelry and watches. Additionally, we ask attendees to refrain from wearing strong perfume and to tie up or secure long hair.</div></div><div> </div><div>Essential Tools:</div><div>Participants are encouraged to have a “sensu” (fan), “fukusa” (silk cloth), and “kaishi” (paper) for Okeiko. If you do not possess these items, they will be available for purchase upon your request. </div><div> </div><div>We look forward to your participation in our upcoming classes, where together we can go deeper into the artistry and tranquility of the Japanese tea ceremony.</div>

Rinzai-ji Zen Center

Tea Ceremony Program - Chadō - Everyday Practice learning the way of tea

2505 Cimarron St

Tea 101: The Fundation of Usucha (Okeiko)

US$25

Tea 101: The Fundation of Usucha (Drop-In)

US$10

Open Tea Practice at Rinzaiji (Okeiko)

US$25

Open Tea Practice (Drop-in)

US$10

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