Reverend Kendo Rich Hart is an ordained Rinzai Zen Buddhist Priest. He is the founder and resident abbot of the Clear Mountain Zen Center, an interfaith Zen Buddhist community located in Hempstead, NY.

Reverend Hart began his formal study of Zen in 1960 with Eido Shimano Roshi, with whom he studied for approximately ten years. Shortly thereafter Reverend Hart met Joshu Sasaki Roshi, which was the start of a twenty five year relationship. Reverend Hart completed his monastic training at Mt. Baldy of Rinzai-ji in California. In addition, Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche also had a strong influence in Revernd Hart's spiritual practice, both as a teacher and a friend.

Drawing upon his varied experiences, which include Hinduism, Christianity, and Kaballah, Reverend Hart's teaching style integrates Eastern and Western traditions and spirituality.

Reverend Hart has lectured at The New School for Social Research, The New York Medical Society, College of the Redwoods, Duke University and Adelphi University. In addition, he has received an honorary degree in religious studies from The New Seminary.