San Francisco Zen Center
Baker received Dharma transmission from Suzuki in 1970, and then was installed as abbot of San Francisco Zen Center during the "Mountain Seat Ceremony" on November 21, 1971. Baker also penned the introduction to Suzuki's famous book, Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind. Within a very short period of time Baker broadened the scope of SFZC, starting first with the acquisition of Green Gulch Farm in 1972.
San Francisco Zen Center expanded quickly with Baker at the helm. In fifteen years, went from an annual budget of $6,000 to $4 million. It acquired property worth around $20 million and built up a network of affiliated businesses staffed by Zen Center students, which included a vegetarian restaurant, a bakery, and a grocery store. In the midst of the growth, Baker became a popular public figure. Although his salary was reportedly modest, he lived a lifestyle which many perceived as extravagant. With so many students and so much public attention, some felt Baker became less available to the members of the community. All of this discontent emerged when it was made public that Baker had allegedly been having an affair with the wife of an influential sangha member.
Read more about this topic: Zentatsu Richard Baker
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