People who continue to practice with us, may wish
to go deeper into their Zen practice and may also want to support
the sangha community. People who want to study with Joshin Sensei
are asked to make a commitment as a practicing member. If they
live a distance from the Zen Community that does not allow them
to participate on a weekly basis, they may become an affiliate
member.
The Zen Community depends on the contributions
and dana of people's generosity. This continued commitment allows
the Zen Community to grow and offer programs and
events.
There are two levels of membership at the Zen Community
of Oak Park:
Practicing Membership is for those wish to engage
in formal study of Zen Buddhism under the supervision of Joshin
Sensei. Practicing members commit themselves to the regular financial
support of Zen Community as well as donating their time to maintain
the buildings and grounds of the Zen Community. Practicing members
also study formally with Joshin Sensei by seeing him regularly
in personal interviews (daisan) and attending regular schedule
zazen as well as sesshin retreats.
Practicing member donation: $50 monthly
Affiliate Membership is for those wishing to engage
in the same way as Practicing members, but are unable to do so
because they live a greater distance from the Zen Community.
They endeavor to attend sesshin retreats as often as possible
and may work with Joshin Sensei doing personal interviews (daisan)
by phone.
Affiliate member donation: $25 monthly
Non-Member: Sometimes it takes time to make a decision
to become a member. If you wish to attend the Zen Community to
familiarize yourself with our practice and sangha, we suggest
a minimum donation of $5.00 per visit be placed in the bowl in
the front entrance. You contribution is important and helps us
maintain our building and grounds to support your practice.
