Our Groups

Please NOTE: This overview of our groups is based on pre-covid in-person meetings and schedules not all have been restarted as of yet but we trust will revive soon.

Please navigate to our Current Practice page for information, group schedules and Zoom information.

Thank You!

Ordinary Recovery

Buddhism and the 12-steps of Recovery

“We are firmly protected from inside. That is our spirit. We are protected from inside, always, incessantly” – “Not Always So”-- Shunryu Suzuki

Ordinary Recovery, an ongoing class and discussion group exploring the relationship between Buddhist meditation and the 12-steps of recovery, is held Saturdays at 9 a.m. at the Carl Cherry Center for the Arts. Through talks, discussions and meditation, we will investigate the many points of convergence between the 12-steps and the teaching and practice of Buddhism. Meditation can be a powerful tool in relapse prevention and can become a “positive addiction” that provides a healthy alternative to addictive behaviors.

Fee: By donation

Saturdays, 9:00 -10:00 a.m.
The Carl Cherry Center for the Arts,
4th and Guadalupe, Carmel.

Brown Bag Zen

New Format! Brown Bag Zen Online
(weekly virtual Zen led by the Teaching Council)

The informal lunch-time meditation group meets Fridays from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m.

Emphasizing a broad, user-friendly approach to Soto Zen, the meeting includes a twenty minute meditation, a short, personal reflection by a Sangha member, and discussion. Brown Bag Zen accentuates Zen practice and personal Dharma in ordinary life.

As affordable. Donations can be made via the portal, or by sending a check to Monterey Bay Zen Center, P.O. 3173, Monterey, CA 93942. Please add a note as you submit your online donation or in the memo line on your check, “BBZ”.

Fridays, 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Mid-Week Meditation

(went on hiatus during the pandemic)

Mid-Week Mediation meets on Wednesdays at 1:30 for a 30-minute meditation, often followed by a quotation or poem and short, open discussion. All are welcome, come as you are. We simply gather together for a while...are quiet and still in the middle of it all...and then we go on our way...

Contact Guy Riina,

Wednesdays, 1:30-2:00 p.m.
McGowan House Zendo
381 High Street
Corner of High and Hellam
Monterey

Chicken Coop Zendo:
Sitting Meditation, Tea and Conversation

(went on hiatus during the pandemic)

The Chicken Coop Zendo in Jamesburg is open for zazen once again. The day and time have changed.
All are welcome to sit.

You are invited to join Phyllis Conlan for informal Zen meditation on Saturday mornings at the Chicken Coop Zendo in Jamesburg. Beginners are welcomed and instructions are offered to help you find a comfortable sitting arrangement, whether on a cushion, a bench or a chair. Please call first to express your interest. A small donation to Monterey Bay Zen Center is encouraged but not required.

Saturdays 9:00-10:00 a.m.

Awakening in the Body

Embodied, guided meditations as a vehicle for cultivating self knowledge, open heartedness, interconnectedness and wellbeing.

Monday mornings 10:30-11:30 a.m.
6 Delfino Place
Carmel Valley, 93923