Bishop-elect / Intern Zen Teacher
A Bishop-elect (Intern Zen Teacher) is a Senior Monk/Priest who has been chosen to become a Bishop, and who has not yet been consecrated. The word “elect” does not necessarily mean “democratically elected.” It simply means “chosen” by a Zen Master to begin as an Intern Zen Teacher with students under the supervision of the Zen Master.
Ven. Ryongwan Karuna
Ven. Ryongwan Karuna was ordained as a sramanera at Kwan Um Sa in Danville, Illinois on December 13, 2014. He lives in Evansville, IN and is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at the University of Southern Indiana in Evansville. He is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), a licensed clinical addiction counselor (LCAC), a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), and is recognized as a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) by NASW. He currently serves as a representative on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Chapter of NASW. His work is primarily with adults addressing mental health and addiction issues. Additionally, he works part-time at an outpatient therapy practice in Evansville called Within Sight.
His first exposure to meditation and eastern philosophy in general, and the teachings of the Buddha specifically, came in 1991 when he started studying martial arts. Over the years he has had the opportunity to study with several different groups in a variety of approaches, including Japanese Tendai, Tibetan Kagyu, and most recently insight meditation approaches with a local group. He sits with the Mindful Heart Buddha Sangha, leading sittings, giving talks, assisting with introductory workshops and retreats. He is currently enrolled at Buddha Dharma University.
His first exposure to meditation and eastern philosophy in general, and the teachings of the Buddha specifically, came in 1991 when he started studying martial arts. Over the years he has had the opportunity to study with several different groups in a variety of approaches, including Japanese Tendai, Tibetan Kagyu, and most recently insight meditation approaches with a local group. He sits with the Mindful Heart Buddha Sangha, leading sittings, giving talks, assisting with introductory workshops and retreats. He is currently enrolled at Buddha Dharma University.