You should know that this (zazen) is the complete path of the buddha-dharma, and nothing can compare to it.
– Dogen Zenji
A zazenkai, literally meaning “to come together for meditation,” is a Zen Buddhist sitting meditation retreat that is less intensive and of shorter duration than sesshin. These sittings are suitable for both beginners and experienced sitters. The schedule will include sitting meditation (zazen), walking meditation, (kinhin) a short talk and closing service. The day may include a short period of light work practice, as well. We ask those who attend to commit to participating in the complete schedule.
Zazenkai are being offered by the Teaching Council of Monterey Bay Zen Center and will be variously led by (alphabetically) Shogen Danielson, Sara Hunsaker, Robert Reese and Patricia Wolff. Two resident priests, Guy Riina and Diane Wells, will also be leading the sittings through the remainder of the year, all at McGowan House.
Zazenkai are in-person only.
The ongoing schedule is 12 noon to 4 PM on the following Sundays: September 22nd; October 20th and November 17th unless otherwise announced.
Leaders scheduled so far unless newly announced otherwise on calendar: All at McGowan, 12 Noon-4 PM.
September 22 - Robert Reese
October 20 - Patricia Wolff
November 17 - Shogen Danielson
For more information, please contact Robert Reese of the MBZC Teaching Council. Also follow this link for MBZC biographies,
These are the suggested registration-donation amounts for Zazenkai Half Day Sittings
No one is turned away from MBZC activities for lack of funds. You pay what you can afford to correspond to your commitment.
Before you click the donation registration button, please review and jot down your choices i.e., dates and questions, so you can add those to your notes when checking out. Also review additional options below. You may register once for any combination of the retreats.
Suggested Donation - $10 - $30, as affordable.
Photo image: Crete, with permission, William Giles.