Joyful Mind Zen Community is a lay Sangha dedicated to providing training in Zen practice and opportunities for meditation to all people, regardless of faith tradition, identity, or belief.

We are a 501 c(3) organization and are supported solely on donation.

‍How are we governed?

We are set up as a non-profit organization with Bylaws that guide our actions, including the dharma precept of non-harming. We practice the Bodhisattva path as a welcoming, affirming and inclusive community for all people.

Our Board of Directors are governed by Bylawswhich include a Grievance and Reconciliation policy and Code of Ethics. All Sangha members, students, and teachers must abide by ethical conduct standards and take healthy boundaries training.

Who are the Teachers?

• Martine Taikai Palmiter, Sensei

• Sarah Kyoshin Farmer, Dharma Holder

All who come to practice with us are members of the community, or Sangha. Whether you are a newcomer or visitor, you are welcome.

Whether you are exploring Zen practice, or just sitting meditation with us, or committing to service roles in the Zendo, there are many ways to be a Sangha member.

For more information on students and member opportunities

*Drawing by Nguyen Thi Hop and Nguyen Dong

Our name Joyful Mind comes from the teaching of Zen Master Dogen (13c Japan) :

“A joyful mind is one of gratefulness and buoyancy. Being born as a human, you have the opportunity to practice and help others, and living in community you become unfettered in social pettiness.

Rejoice in your birth into this world where you are capable of using your bodies freely to help others, with innumerable opportunities, and with all of your strength and efforts in all times of life, to practice in this way.”

For more on Zen Master Dogen’s Teachings on Joyful Mind, KInd Mind, Magnanimous Mind