One River Zen Ordains New Buddhist Priest in Ottawa, IL
The ceremony of Shukke Tokudo — formal home-leaving in the Sōtō Zen tradition — was officiated by Abbot Sensei Sōen Michael Brunner and signifies a deep commitment to lifelong practice, service, and embodying the Dharma in everyday life. Read on WGN
One River Zen Announces Pending Purchase of Former Ottawa Times Facility to Expand Community Programs in Ottawa, IL
One River Zen has announced the pending purchase of the former Ottawa Times building at 110 W. Jefferson Street — a significant expansion that will allow the temple to broaden meditation programs and deepen community outreach serving the Illinois Valley eoyj an autism-affirming play and learning space for children and their families.
👉 Read the full press release on The National Law Review
‘People Are Hungry’: Karuna Food Pantry Struggling to Meet Rising Food Needs in Ottawa
Rising food prices and cold weather have increased demand at One River Zen’s Karuna Food Pantry, a community outreach project serving Ottawa families in need. Read the full story at Shaw Local.
One River Zen Names Writer & Artist for Residency in Ottawa
Shaw Local coverage of One River Zen’s Writer–Artist in Residence program — Sensei Michael Brunner on the intersection of Zen practice and creative expression in Ottawa, Illinois. Read the full article at Shaw Local.
Call for Artists: Residency in Ottawa Announced by One River Zen
One River Zen invites artists and writers to apply for its Artist-in-Residence program — blending creative expression and Zen practice in Ottawa, Illinois. Read the full article at Starved Rock Media / WLPO.
One River Zen Adds Micro Pantry to Help Those in Need
One River Zen expands its outreach with a new Micro Pantry in Ottawa, offering food and essentials to neighbors in need — an expression of Zen compassion in action. Read the full article at Shaw Local.