We are a racial affinity group.
We meet, discuss, and lean into the ways that Buddhist practice can help us learn to recognize racism in ourselves and our environment, and respond with wisdom and compassion. As a group, we help each of us reflect and hold ourselves accountable. We invite others to learn with us as part of the commitment to be present to these issues in a way that transforms our sangha and the wider community.
Here is a collection of resources that have inspired us to expand the paradigms of our thinking about race. Questions? Contact justice@pszc.org
Here is a statement from the PSZC Board, in July 2020, Reflecting on the Legacy of Racism.
Talking about living and dying.
The Zen Death Group meets online twice monthly on the second and fourth Mondays from 12- to 1 or 1:15. We discuss, from a Buddhist perspective, issues surrounding death – our own and other’s – and how these experiences effect the way we live our lives. Members take turns facilitating the sessions and topics are predetermined. Often there are readings or other material that participants are invited to look at and ponder in advance if possible. New folks are very welcome. The meetings can be accessed through the standard PSZC Zoom link; 511-706-4990. Please contact death@pszc.org for the password or if you have any questions.
Dirt, sweat, and growing things – we love it. Thanks to the passionate and robust efforts of Shuko Sissel Johannessen the PSZC now supports an impressive vegetable garden for the Vashon Food Bank.
Shuko will be in the garden every Monday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-11:00am. People are invited to stop by then or work an hour whenever they have time. There are a few tools on site, but feel free to bring your own.
Please contact Shuko Sissel Johannessen at shuko@pszc.org for directions to the garden or to discuss ideas for the garden or any questions you might have.
The Sangha Care Team, part of the Membership Committee, provides a structure for Sangha members to support one another through the difficult times we all inevitably face. They coordinate requested help such as meals, shopping, rides to doctors’ appointments, home and hospital visits and more.
Email: care@pszc.org
Puget Sound Zen Center has adopted Cove Rd from 129th Lane SW to Vashon Hwy SW.
We are committed to keep this section of road clear of trash at least twice a year – and we always need help.
Volunteers must complete the Individual Participant Release Form and watch the Safety Video. Per King County rules, no minors are allowed. Email completed forms or drop them off at the Zendo in the Zen Trash envelope hung on the bulletin board.
Program currently on hold due to Covid-19 restrictions
The PSZC library consists of about 400 books on topics including Zen Buddhism, other Buddhist traditions, world religions and spiritual practices, psychology, end of life, literature, arts and culture. The library is located in the zendo. Everyone is most welcome to browse the collection. The library contents can also be browsed in the online catalogue. The procedure for checking out books is contained here.
PSZC volunteers serve a meal the Presbyterian Church on the third Monday of each month for as part of our commitment to the Inter-Faith Council for the Homeless (IFCH). We need help to make this happen.
Here is the link with more information and the sign-up sheet.
Relax. Breathe. Move.
Join us in the ancient practice of harmonizing body and mind using simple, easy to follow meditation in motion.
You will learn breathing techniques that generate free- flowing energy in the spirit of non achieving. and removing hindrances for health benefits. See our calendar page here for more details.
All are welcome. No experience necessary.
The precepts orient a practitioner’s heart toward noticing the effects their actions have on others.
In order to receive the precepts at PSZC a person must perform each of the five zendo officer positions (jikijitsu, shoji, densu, mokugyo, and tenzo) for 6 months. Then the candidate takes the precepts class for a year. Classmates study and discuss how ones actions affect other people and to act in ways that cause suffering with the guidance of the abbot and prior preceptors.
Read more about the precepts here.
There are opportunities to create your own interest group.
Please contact us for more info.
Email: programs@pszc.org