The
is a small but growing community of meditators
practicing in the Zen tradition and style.
We are affiliated with the Kwan Um School
of Zen and the Gateless Gate Zen
Center
in
All
sittings are open to the public and to people of all faiths and backgrounds.
It is not necessary to have any previous meditation experience to attend.
Currently we are meeting on Sunday evenings at 7 pm.
We meet at Shine on Yoga in downtown Orlando where we are graciously allowed to use the space on a donation basis (i.e. if you have no money, no problem; if you can help pay for the rent with a donation, it is appreciated.) There are some cushions and mats, and it is also possible to sit on a chair or bench. You are most welcome to come by and join us any Sunday to see what you think
Here is the info for the
location:
Shine On Yoga
(right across from Dandelion Communitea Cafe
Here is some further information about what to expect:
What do we do every Sunday evening?
We usually begin with chanting of the Heart Sutra (in English) and the Great Dharani - if you want to listen to those on-line here is a
link:
http://www.kwanumzen.org/kusz-body.shtml#members
(go down to "Chanting" and click on the appropriate
links).
We then sit silently for about 25 minutes. After an
opportunity to share reflections from our practice and announcements we end
with the recitation of the four great vows (http://www.kwanumzen.org/misc/fourgreatvows.html) and that is it. We are usually done by 8pm.
How much experience?
You are welcome to join us no matter what your prior experience
with meditation or Buddhism. The practice of
sitting silently is rather universal and no particular faith commitment is
required. Have questions? We are glad to answer questions – and we can usually
recommend some reading as well, if you are interested.
Not a
It should be noted that we are not a residential center with
classes, but are a group of Zen practitioners who practice on their own and
then regularly meet to practice silent meditation together. We are always happy
to share experiences or answer questions.
Teachers or longer meditation periods?
We have a number of experienced practitioners sitting with our group. Most months we have a "Long Sit" (12-6pm, walking and sitting meditation and a Dharma Talk) on the third Saturday of each month. We are associated with the