“The truth is everywhere, but if we don't practice it, it doesn't show itself and we don't experience it.

When we let go of reality our hands are filled with it and when we shut up about reality our mouths are filled with it." - Eihei Dogen

ACZC is an independent Soto Zen Center, founded in the tradition of Gudo Wafu Nishijima. We provide traditional Zen practice in a casual atmosphere open to anyone and everyone who would like to join us. Our community is based on Zen’s original promise that no one here has to do or become anything other than what they already are.

about us:

ACZC was established in 2016 as a place to take our Zen practice seriously and ourselves a little less so. We offer daily meditation, weekly talks, traditional chanting services, bi-annual retreats, monthly writing workshops, poetry and music nights, and many other community events. All of our programs are donation based and open to everyone.

faq's

Q: Do you have parking available?
A: Yes! I just told you that above. There is a small driveway attached to the center you are free to use
    
Q: Can I come late or leave early?
A: Yes, absolutely. Come and go as you need, we are always happy to have you. If you need to arrive after meditation has started please just be mindful of others who are sitting and come in quietly and find a seat as unobtrusively as you can. If this is your first time attending we do ask that you come on time so you can get situated without disturbing others.
    
Q: Is there a place to put my stuff to help keep the zendo free of clutter?
A: Yes! There are hooks in the hallway next to the bathroom to hang your personal items as well as a cabinet to use.

Q: Can I get up to use the bathroom during meditation if I need to? Am I allowed to move during meditation?!
A: As still and perfect as his statues look these days, I guarantee you Buddha adjusted or got up to take a quick pee now and then. Maintaining stillness is an important part of meditation, but if you need to adjust or move, do what you need. Especially if your legs start falling asleep, you may need to switch the cross of your legs or change your sitting position. 
During walking meditation is the best time to go use the bathroom. But please, if you have to go during the sit, get up and go. Don't be too proud to move and end up injuring your bladder or accidentally pooping your zafu. They aren't cheap and we're still not sure how to wash them.
   
Q: Do you serve meals or tea? Can I have some too??
A: Yes! We serve delicious herbal teas at all meditations and other events and you are welcome to have some. 
We also serve a traditional Zen breakfast at the monthly half day retreats. It is open to all and we'd be delighted if you joined us.
   
Q: What do I need to bring for meditation? Do I need my own cushion?
A: We have plenty of meditation cushions here for you to use, but if you have one that fits your butt just the way you like it, please feel free to bring it.

Q: When do you have retreats? Can I come? Do I have to stay for the whole thing or can I sit just a couple periods and then leave?
A: Jeez, you ask so many question. But yes! We love retreats. We currently hold two off site (typically) overnight retreats a year in the spring and fall. These are designed for full attendance.
Schedules and registration will be posted on the calendar well in advance, so check back here, follow us on your favorite social media, or join the newsletter for more info.

Q: Do you do big complicated ceremonies that will intimidate me, look cultish, and make me feel stupid for not owning fancy zen clothes?
A: Yes! I mean no! I mean, sort of. We do a Well Being ceremony once a month on the first Saturday during the Half Day Retreat. We also offer a traditional Heart Sutra service every Friday morning at 8am open to anyone looking for a little more ritual in their lives. On the Sunday evening closest to the full moon we do the Ryaku Fusatsu Repentence Ceremony. We do these because they can be a nice part of community practice and because we like them. That said, we try to keep them as accessible as possible so that everyone from newcomers to old experienced zen masters can join in and feel inspired and comfortable. Chant books are provided so there is nothing to memorize or know beforehand.

Q: Do people wear robes or rakusus regularly at the center?
A: While we do have ordained priests and people who have received jukai that practice at the center, in general we don't wear our fancy gear except during certain ceremonies. We like to feel comfortable just like we want everyone who comes to feel comfortable. We would hate to accidentally present the idea that there is some exclusive club or ranking system that sets people apart from each other.

Q: Are there any rules or protocol for joining in group discussion?
A: Good question! I'm so glad you asked that. In general the answer is no. We try to keep the discussions as loose and open as possible. That said, discussion is just as important and challenging a part of practice as sitting silently is. Often, speaking is more challenging... We recommend approaching it with the same spirit of care and curiosity you would with meditation. Here are our typical exhortations to encourage enthusiastic and harmonious discussion for all:

1) Please speak! We need brave people to speak to have a discussion. We promise, whatever you’re thinking, someone else is thinking it too or would benefit from hearing it. Sharing what’s coming up for you is a great generosity.

2) Time & space are a community resource! Please use them wisely and leave enough for everyone. Awkward silence can be a powerful motivator for others to share.

Q: Do you have any suggested guidelines around dating or romantic relationships between attendees?
A: Why yes we did write such a document in the hopes of maintaining an atmosphere most conducive to Zen practice for all involved. These can be viewed here.