Lay Rev. Jiyo Agacki

About Me:

Taoism first intrigued me, but I was never quite satisfied with the dichotomy – I have always looked for the SOURCE. Received Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Black Sash in Shaolin Kung Fu about 30 yrs. ago. Haven’t practiced since, though the Sifu (Shaolin) started my meditating practice that continues today and taught me how to control my physical and mental well-being.

Went through some classes to convert to Reformed Judaism (Rabbi Barry Silberg). Most of my friends then (my early 20’s) were Jewish. Most of my friends/fellow workers are (still) Jewish.

Officially joined Unitarian-Universalist Association 20(?) years ago. Started practicing Buddhism with the Rev. James Ishmael Ford soon afterwards, and have remained the ‘Buddhist Contact’ for our church. Member of UU-Buddhists for a number of years (current).

Took Lay Precepts with Kwan Um School of Zen Oct. 11, 1998, after participating in several 4-day retreats. Learned Yang’s Style Tai Chi Form (long form) around the same time.

Have been involved and have friends in the larger Buddhist community of southeast Wisconsin through annual Buddha’s Birthday Celebration/oriental groceries that I frequent.

I have given dozens Dharma Talks/classes/Sermons at local UU churches (sermons on Buddhist perspectives of Art, Peace, The Creation, Music and Poetry). Gave three sermons just this Summer (2006).

Also collaborated with a Marquette University student filming a DVD to discuss the Hindu, Hassidic and Buddhist views of ‘The Creation’. I once described the interviews in a sermon, ‘Okay. Picture an orthodox Hindu, a Hassidic Jew and a laid-back UU Buddhist …’.

For my church’s annual Silent Retreat, I serve as the ‘Meditation Facilitator’. For last Spring’s retreat, I gave a ‘Silent Dharma Talk’.

Took Lay Precepts with Bright Dawn on Aug. 10th, 2006. Inducted as Lay Minister 5/25/2008.

Amida Membership

Would like to be a member

Faith Background & Affiliation

Unitarian Unitarian Buddhist Fellowship, Bright Dawn

What is your interest in Amida Trust

Continue networking

What country are you living in?

USA

What is the nearest town to where you live? If in UK, please give first half of your postcode. Thank you.

Milwaukee

Are you a member of an Amida group/Congregation

not at the moment

Have you visited

None of these

What can you offer to other members of this network?

Expertise

What other interests do you have, eg Arts, Gardening and so on.

Sculpting, Sumi-e, reading, writing, martial arts, Tai Chi

Website:

http://greybuddha.gaia.com/