UUC’s Zen group invites all who are interested to join us on Saturday, May 3, in-person at UUC or via Zoom, for a morning of meditation and practice with the Empty Moon Zen Sanghas. Empty Moon is a collaboration of UU-friendly Zen groups who meet for extended Zazenkai on the first Saturday of each month. Individuals also have the option to join early morning practice (Zoom only) from 6:30–7:30 a.m,

During our morning together, we’ll engage Zazen (silent sitting meditation) for 25-minute periods, alternating with shorter periods of Kinhin (5-10 minutes of walking meditation). One of the Empty Moon Zen teachers will offer a dharma talk during the 10-10:30 a.m. practice period.

Opportunity for one-on-one meetings with a Zen teacher (Dokusan) will be offered during Zazen later in the morning, to ask questions about your meditation practice, Zen Buddhism in general, or how to work with a life challenge through Zen practice. Beginners and long-time practitioners are equally welcome to participate in Dokusan. Our day of practice with the Sangha ends at noon, followed by clean up before we depart UUC.

This is a drop-in event. Participants are encouraged to stay for the full time, though part-time attendance on your own schedule is also welcome. If you are participating online, we recommend that you view or download the liturgy book for chants that will be used during this morning of practice. Chant books are provided for in-person participants.

To improve your meditation experience when practicing online, arrange your space as best you can to allow you to sit quietly without interruption. Please keep your microphone muted throughout, except while participating in a dharma discussion or Dokusan, and when we speak names during the dedication for those who need support or remembrance. We encourage cameras-on whenever possible to offer a more connective experience with other practitioners.

Whether attending in-person or online, wear comfortable, loose clothing. Subdued styles and dark colors are preferred to reduce visual distraction. Please don’t let these customs be a barrier to your participation, though—you are welcome as you are. We do ask that those on-site avoid strong fragrances, as some participants are scent-sensitive.

Zoom Links for UUC Gatherings are password protected for security, and are not posted in public locations. Go to this post in UUC Connect or contact the church office for assistance in accessing Zoom meetings at UUC.

For more information about this event, contact Janine Larsen, Zen priest and UUC Acting Administrator.