Born and raised in Sterling, Illinois, Daniel graduated from the University of Iowa with honors in history in 1994. He attended the University of San Francisco School of Law, where he obtained a J.D. in 2001. He has been practising law in California ever since. Turning to Buddhism in 2011, Daniel began Zen practice in 2015 with Valley Streams, his first sangha. Shortly thereafter, Rev. John Briggs introduced Daniel to Rev. Zenkei Mary Mocine, abbot of Clear Water Zendo, who became Daniel’s teacher. Daniel sat several sesshins with Mary over the following years and assisted her on yearly attorney retreats to Tassajara. Daniel received the precepts from Mary in 2019. Daniel was a Valley Streams Board member in 2017/2018 and currently serves on the Board of the Sacramento Dharma Center.

*Zoom link to program

Our Monday night programs begin with zazen (sitting meditation) followed by a devotional service and dharma talk, group discussion, or practice circle. There are no membership requirements to participate. We invite donations to support the room rental, visits by teachers, and other sangha activities. Valley Streams Zen Sangha is dedicated to the study of Buddha’s teaching and the practice of meditation. We invite newcomers and experienced Zen students to join us. If this is your first visit please arrive at least 15 minutes early for a brief orientation.