THICH NHAT HANH, 1926-2022
A Cloud Never Dies
— A biographical documentary of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh narrated by Peter Coyote
Premiered Apr 2, 2022
A new biographical documentary of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh narrated by actor Peter Coyote, A Cloud Never Dies weaves together original film and photographic archives, telling the story of a humble young Vietnamese monk and poet whose wisdom and compassion were forged in the suffering of war.
In the face of violence, fear, and discrimination, Thich Nhat Hanh’s courageous path of engaged action reveals how insight, community, and a deep aspiration to serve the world can offer hope, peace, and a way forward for millions.
The film’s release on April 2, 2022 coincides with the release by his students of an Open Letter calling for peace and an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine: https://plumvillage.org/articles/an-open-letter-calling-for-peace/
Content Warning: This film includes a few brief scenes which some viewers may find upsetting (including sounds and images of war). These are intended to convey the true suffering caused by war, but they may also be triggering for some people, so please use your discretion when sharing this film with children.
This film will remain here for everyone to view or it can be viewed directly on YouTube.
The Day Shem Began to Walk
— Brother Joseph Kilikevice, OP
The death of Thich Nhat Hanh on January 22, 2022 at age 95, presents Shem Center with an opportunity to honor him as significant to our founding. After the Chicago 1993 Parliament of the World’s Religions during which Shem Center was founded, I attended a three day retreat offered by Thay, (- a name expressing affection and respect used by his followers). It took place at nearby Mundelein Catholic Seminary. Thay offered a guided Buddhist walk on the beautiful well kept grounds one afternoon. The blossoming image he uses in his poetry and songs, flowers rising up out of the ground after having been blessed by our footsteps, was included on this walk. A half dozen or so children were at his side holding hands with him as he led us, slowly and silently walking after him.
This lovely memory remains an appropriate image for the blossoming of Shem Center that began at that time and continues to this day.
The text, images, chants and Thay’s words so beautifully preserved by the Plum Village Monastics and friends found on this web site is a way I wish to respectfully help to continue Thay’s legacy among us, blessing the world with loving-kindness and peace.
Please support Plum Village with your donations.
Great Compassion Chant – Namo’valokiteshvaraya
In memory of our beloved teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh we are releasing our best recording of the Namo’valokiteshvaraya chant of compassion, recorded in the Still Water Meditation Hall, Upper Hamlet, Plum Village, France.
Autumn 2020
Shem Center for Interfaith Spirituality
708 North Harvey Avenue
Oak Park, IL 60302
(708) 848-1095
shemcenter1993@gmail.com
Photo Credits: Emory Mead, Stephen B. Starr, Joseph Kilikevice
The Shem Center for Interfaith Spirituality website is awarded a 2022 American Digital Design Award for excellence in design and user experience.
