ZAZENKAI ~~ “A Day of Zen”

Registration Form

Sitting in retreat is vital to Zen practice—it is a rare opportunity to deepen your spiritual practice through extended silent meditation, walking, eating in silence together as Sangha community.

“Hearing the sound of the bell, all thinking is cut off, wisdom grows, clarity appears, compassion arises….”

Join the Joyful Mind Zen Community for its Sunday Zazenkai Rockville United Church in Twinbrook/Rockville, MD (one mile from Twinbrook Metro/red line). Wear comfortable clothes. Bring a bag dinner and any snacks you wish to share. Tea is provided. You are welcome to stay for all (2-8:30 pm) or half (2-6 pm) of the retreat. Address: 355 LInthicum Street, Rockville, MD 20851.

There is no charge to attend, but donations are appreciated for the retreat and the teachers. Donations page (Pay Pal, Zelle, check) or here: https://www.joyfulmindzendo.org/practice-of-generosity. Suggested donation: $20-25.

Cushions and chairs provided, but you may bring your own bench or cushion.

Arrival and Schedule:
Enter at the back door of the church, and park in parking lot in front or back. Walk through the garden and look for the green welcome sign. Arrive at 1:45 pm to find your seat. Bell rings at 2:00 pm for first sit. If you are late, please sit in the hallway chairs until the next Bell rings. The schedule includes 25-minute periods of sitting, interspersed with walking meditation, rest or tea breaks, Teacher talks and interviews, chant practice.

SCHEDULE:
1:45 door open and be on your cushion or chair by 2 pm for the first bell
2:00-3:30 Zazen sitting meditation and walking meditation
3:30-3:50 Tea or rest break
3:50-5:15 Zazen sitting meditation, Dharma talk, teacher interview, walking meditation
5:15-5:35 Tea or rest or stretch break
5:35-6:30 Zazen and walking
6:30-7pm Silent dinner break
7-8:30 Zazen and walking meditation and closing discussion

If you have any questions prior to registering, please reach out to registration@joyfulmindzendo.org.