MONICA REEDE
Priest-In-Training
As the third child of a scientist and an artist, Monica developed an interest in consciousness, creativity, healing and compassion at an early age. She was attracted to Zen for its ability to hold the infinite complexity of the whole within the simplicity of an in-breath and an out-breath.
She began studying and practicing Soto Zen in the early 1990’s at MZMC with Karen Sunna. She received Jukai in 2005 from Tim Burkett and was ordained as a priest in 2022 by Ben Connelly. During her many years with MZMC Monica was involved in everything from maintaining the gardens, overseeing the extensive library, participating in and leading study groups, teaching classes, giving talks and being a member of the board of directors.
In 2015 she relocated from Minneapolis to Ojai, CA and has been fortunate to find a second zen community with the Santa Barbara Zen Center.
Monica worked as a professional artist for over 20 years before transitioning into a career as a holistic healer. She is passionate about integrating creativity and mind-body-spirit awareness into the full expression of Zen practice. She continues to draw inspiration from all of those who have walked this path before her, beside her, and those who will follow. She enjoys exploring the Dharma with all beings including plants, animals, rocks, trees, clouds and humans.
Priest-In-Training
As the third child of a scientist and an artist, Monica developed an interest in consciousness, creativity, healing and compassion at an early age. She was attracted to Zen for its ability to hold the infinite complexity of the whole within the simplicity of an in-breath and an out-breath.
She began studying and practicing Soto Zen in the early 1990’s at MZMC with Karen Sunna. She received Jukai in 2005 from Tim Burkett and was ordained as a priest in 2022 by Ben Connelly. During her many years with MZMC Monica was involved in everything from maintaining the gardens, overseeing the extensive library, participating in and leading study groups, teaching classes, giving talks and being a member of the board of directors.
In 2015 she relocated from Minneapolis to Ojai, CA and has been fortunate to find a second zen community with the Santa Barbara Zen Center.
Monica worked as a professional artist for over 20 years before transitioning into a career as a holistic healer. She is passionate about integrating creativity and mind-body-spirit awareness into the full expression of Zen practice. She continues to draw inspiration from all of those who have walked this path before her, beside her, and those who will follow. She enjoys exploring the Dharma with all beings including plants, animals, rocks, trees, clouds and humans.
