How Do I Get Started with Zen Buddhism?

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Note: We are currently only doing the Sunday morning public service.

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We encourage beginners and newcomers to come to our Sunday morning public services at 10:30 a.m. All of our public services are beginner-friendly – right down to the availability of chairs to sit in, if need be.  We also always have someone greeting people, and they're available for any logistical questions you may have.

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When you arrive for one of the public services, you'll see in the front hall places to put your shoes.  When entering and exiting the meditation room, we bow with our hands palm-to-palm as a way to respect our own efforts to awaken as well as the efforts of those around us.  We ask that people wear clothes that are comfortable, relatively modest, and that aren't too distracting -- no super-bright colors, t-shirts with writing all over them, etc.

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The 10:30 a.m. services last about an hour:  there's a 20 minute meditation sitting; then we stand for a brief chanting of the "Three Refuges"; another ten minute sitting; and then the service ends with a teaching or question and answer session.  And then afterward everyone is free to stay for informal mingling, tea, etc., which is also a great time to pull one of the teachers or seminary students aside for any additional questions you may have.

 

Sunday Morning Public Services:
10:30-11:30 a.m.  Adults only

 

Beginner’s Orientation:

Third Sunday of most months, Noon – 1 pm
While public services are designed with beginners in mind, we also offer this time every month for newcomers who may have questions about everything from Buddhist teachings and history to meditation practice and temple etiquette. Please note that you do not have to attend this orientation before coming to any of our public services.

 

Additional Sunday Services for Members:

8:30 a.m. Yebul Chanting Service
9:00 a.m. Members’ sitting with interviews

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NOTE:  There are also Wednesday evening services at 7 pm for members as well;

these include three meditation periods and a recitation of the Heart Sutra.

 

Saturday Meditation Retreats:

Meditation Retreats are held on the first Saturday of most months: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Includes sitting and walking meditation with a formal lunch at noon.
$20.  Please RSVP in advance.

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An Introduction to Zen Meditation Course is also offered every year.  

That said, Still Point's teachers are always available to walk you through the 

basics and answer any questions you have along the way.

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Please see the calendar for dates.

 

Other Services Offered:

Weddings. Commitment Ceremonies. Funerals. Baby Blessings. Memorial Services.