Rites of Passage

It has become our tradition here to have a cluster of programmes simultaneously at this time of year. Specifically, that is Family Camp, which is pretty much as it sounds, where families come to live and practice together; Kyudo, which is Zen archery, with its strong forms and beautiful costumes, and Sun Camp, where the older children come and experience an independent camp, and hopefully, their own minds. In recent years we have also hosted a programme for young people from teens to early thirties, who train together in contemplative disciplines while helping to provide childrens' activities.

The Rites of Passage children arrive

The culmination of Family Camp is the Rites of Passage ceremony, which is for children of around 8-10 years old. This is an age of transition from young childhood to a more responsible, independent time. In many cultures this transition is marked with a ritual, and in Shambhala we follow this tradition. The children of this age participate in their own stream of activities, which this year included Aikido, Ikebana, and Kyudo. They make their own bow and fire the first shot. Finally they do the Rites of Passage Ceremony, which includes giving up a toy or item of clothing which is representative of their childhood, taking a vow to be kind, and receiving various ceremonial gifts.

Sensei presents a Ya to Ruby

This year we again had the honour of Kanjuro Shibata Sensei XX's presence, and he gave a beautiful Ya, or arrow, to each of the Rites of Passage graduates. Then sacred clowns representing the four elements performed a wonderful dance around the children, before showering them with sweets and nuts.

Sacred clowns