White marble sitting buddha, Chonburi, Thailand.
Thank you to Rutpratheep Nilpechr on Unsplash.
You should know that this (zazen) is the complete path of the buddha-dharma, and nothing can compare to it. – Dogen Zenji
A zazenkai, literally meaning “to come together for meditation,” is a Zen Buddhist sitting meditation retreat that is less intensive and of shorter duration than sesshin of a few to several days. These sittings are suitable for both beginners and experienced sitters. The schedule will include sitting meditation (zazen), walking meditation (kinhin), a short talk, and closing service. The day may include a short period of light work practice as well. We ask those who attend to commit to participating in the complete schedule.
Zazenkai is being offered by the Teaching Council of Monterey Bay Zen Center and will be variously led by (alphabetically): Shōgen Danielson, Sara Hunsaker, Robert Reese and Patricia Wolff. Two resident priests, Guy Riina and Diane Wells-Nowell, will also be leading sittings throughout the year, all at McGowan House.
Zazenkai is in-person only.
The ongoing schedule is 12 to 4 PM on one Sunday each month (usually the third weekend). You may commit to attend only one retreat, or for any additional sittings to be announced during the year. As leaders are scheduled, you will find their names and the zazenkai dates here or as newly announced on the calendar:
January 18, 12-4 PM
Led by Sara Hunsaker, MBZC Teaching Council
No one is turned away from MBZC activities for lack of funds. You donate what you can afford to correspond to your commitment.
Suggested Donation - $20-$30 per retreat, or any amount, as best you can afford. The suggested donation for the full year is TBD.
Dana (gift) for leader is optional: any amount either directly to the teacher or below with electronic payment at any time.
Email the upcoming zazenkai leader (all leaders have email links on the Teaching Council page linked below) with any special request, or to share your intention to attend, and donate by check.
You may return back to this page at anytime to donate again for a different month, or to leave a gift, or to email for more information.