Tokudo is a ceremonial wherin a person takes monastic ordination to the rank of Bhikhu (or Bhikhuni). It often takes place at the conclusion of a longer training period, during which the member serves as a model to the community of the Order. The event is an empowerment for the person in that his or her understanding is tested by the community. As such, it is a participatory and deeply moving experience for all members of the Order. At Tokudo, the monastic gives his or her first Dharma address and takes questions from the community, known as Dharma dialogue.
