The Zen Community of Oak Park considers council
circle interchange an important ingredient of Zen practice. Such
circles help to create a safe container where people can speak
freely and genuinely. Each person practices speaking and listening
from the heart.
A talking piece is passed to the person speaking,
to remind everyone that there is no interuption while the person
is speaking. In this way, no cross talk occurs in the circle
practice, allowing each person to explore a deeper, more centered
form of communication and expression.
Circles are facilitated by a person trained in
this practice.
Circles may be done in an open format with no
fixed theme, but often, we hold them around a specific subject.
For instance, in the past we have had interfaith practice circles
and diversity circles. The Sangha has an ongoing circle once
a month that focuses on stewardship. There is currently a Coming
Home for Veterans Circle meeting once a month that is open
only to Zen Community members and Veterans.
A dana donation of $5 is suggested.
