The ultimate and unchangeable Dharma
Learning
“To study the buddha way is to study the self.”
classes
We invite teachers to the temple to offer their experience and knowledge. Topics can range from studying the basics of Zen, deeper dives into the sutras, and the means by which we can bring the mind of mediation into our everyday life.
Study Groups
There are several weekly and monthly informal study groups, based around different Buddhist or Zen texts. These often involve reading passages out loud and discussing them. Everyone is welcome to drop in to any of them, with no special commitment.
Dharma Talks
Every Wednesday evening, as well as during sesshin meditation retreats and longer sits, there is a Dharma talk by one of our teachers, or a visiting teacher. This includes time for asking questions, and is followed on Wednesdays by an informal tea.
Study Materials
Visit our Sangha Newsletter archive; download our sutra book; and view books by our lineage teachers, including The Truth of This Life, and others. Glossary of Zen Terms is also available.
Dokusan
The formal meeting of teacher and student is an essential element of Zen practice. Dogen Zenji says that there are two ways to realize the body and mind of Zen: “meeting with a teacher to inquire into Dharma and just wholeheartedly sitting.” If either of these are neglected, Dogen says, it is impossible to “hit the mark” with body and mind, fully expressing freedom, letting go of our fixed ideas and views. Everyone is welcome to request dokusan from any of the teachers at Zen Center by appointment. Meet a teacher.
Jukai & Precepts
The sixteen Bodhisattva Precepts of Soto Zen are the guiding principle for our daily conduct in the world. The sixteen precepts are grouped into three categories which are the Three Refuges, the Three Collective Pure Precepts and the Ten Major Precepts.
We offer a monthly full moon Precepts Renewal Ceremony where we renew our commitment to practicing this way of life, in harmony with all beings. Everyone is welcome to attend. Learn More
Sewing Buddha’s Robe
Anybody who is sewing a rakusu with the permission of their teacher, is welcome to sew with us. Please come for instruction or community. Participation by those who need to sew an envelope, repair an old rakusu or robe, or wish to sew a robe as a gift, is also encouraged. More information on sewing can be found here.