Our mission is to empower you to live a Zen-inspired life of openness, empathy, and clarity.

Upcoming Programs

June 12-14 | Limit of 15 Participatns | Online Only

RETREAT INTO WRITING

Another writing workshop with Pearl Kunaka Ratunil and Roshi June Ryushin Tanoue.

Often we have daydreams and vision–books that we want to write, art we want to create–but our very own lives seem to get in the way.

The aspiration for this retreat is not just to create a product, but also to establish a routine that will sustain writing (or creative) life. In other words, how do we make writing or creativity a regular part of our lives?

Saturday, June14 | 11:00 am – 1:00 pm | In-Person Only

COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE
@ 46 Lake Street in Oak Park
Everyone is Welcome!

For over 10 years, we’ve been Oak Park’s sanctuary of calm where everyone is always welcome. Come meet some of our teachers and members, learn about our center and what we have to offer.

Your Journey Begins Here

Come by any time between 11 and 1. We’ll have some free snacks and drinks available.

Saturday, June 21- July 12 | 10:00 – 11:30 am | Online Only

SIX PARAMITAS:
Courage and Grace Under Fire
with Roshi Robert Althouse

Deepen and clarify the spiritual path of Zen and help orient your life around greater meaning and purpose. Learn about the Six Paramitas which are the path of practice of living by the vow of a Bodhisattva (Spiritual Warrior). This series will take a deep dive into the genuine spiritual path of Zen. It will explain what a Bodhisattva is and why orienting your life around this profound, universal, and benevolent intention can lead to deeper meaning, purpose, and joy in your life.

Welcome to the Zen Center

Every day, people just like you step through our doors – CEOs and students, believers and skeptics, all searching for clarity. We understand the burdens you may carry: the depression that colors your world gray, the stress that tightens your shoulders, and the burnout that dims your spark. We’ve walked this path before and we’ve found something worth sharing.

1. First Steps on the Path

Imagine standing at the threshold of a new world – one filled with peace, wisdom, and connection. Join our Zen family by attending any of our free events, such as our Sunday Morning Zen program or our weekly morning online meditation.

2. Getting Started

Zen meditation and the cultivation of mindful awareness form the core of our practice, offering profound benefits such as stress management, deeper relationships, and a richer life experience. Begin your journey with our four-part Meditation for Everyone course.

3. Embrace the Zen Journey

Our Sangha welcomes all, from curious newcomers to dedicated practitioners. To help you understand better the nature of the Zen Spiritual Path, we suggest you take our course, the Path of Zen. The next step is to consider joining the Center as a member. There are two kinds of membership at the center.There are several ways to participate as a member. You may become a supporting member paying monthly dues to help support our mission You may also choose to embark on a serious Zen path of training.

4. Finding Your True North

As you delve into your Zen practice, a world of self-discovery unfolds before you. The ordinary is extraordinary–each moment a revelation, each breath a miracle. Your journey may lead you to take the Jukai ceremony, where you embrace the sixteen precepts under your teacher’s guidance.