Becoming a ​​​​Member


By becoming a member of the Louisville Zen Center, you join a community of like-minded practitioners, pooling your energy and commitment with others. The more you take part in sittings and other Center activities, the more support you receive—and just as importantly, the more support you offer to others.​


Who Can Join?

Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age and over. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, age, religion, or sexual orientation. 

How to Become a Member?

  1. Start by attending an introductory workshop.
  2. Read this entire page, then complete a Membership Application and Pledge Form—pledge what your finances comfortably allow. Louisville Zen Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and your contributions may be tax-deductible. 
  3. Mail the forms and your initial contribution to the Louisville Zen Center, with "Membership" in the address line (please do not use PayPal for the initial contribution).
  4. Once we’ve reviewed everything, we’ll contact you to schedule a meeting. This is a chance to answer any questions you may have about the Center, membership, and other ways to get involved. Membership may be approved at this meeting.


What are Benefits of Membership?

  • May attend all sittings, talks, and events
  • Receive regular email updates (about 4 per month)
  • Have access to one-on-one instruction (dokusan) and other forms of guidance with Sensei Jissai Prince-Cherry
  • Can formally become a student of Sensei
  • May train for zendo roles and contribute to Center operations
  • Have priority access to retreats, classes, and workshops at LZC and sister centers
  • Receive a free subscription to Zen Bow, the Rochester Zen Center’s quarterly journal
  • Enjoy discounts on fee-based programs and materials at LZC and sister centers
  • Take part in shaping the Center’s future through voting, committee work, or serving on our Board of Directors


Are there any obligations of membership? 

  • Members are welcome to participate as much or as little as they choose—every level of involvement is valued.
  • We ask everyone to abide by the ethical guidelines, code of conduct, and sexual harassment policies of the Rochester Zen Center.
  • Support the Center financially by making a monthly, quarterly, or annual pledge, according to your means. For donations beyond your initial contribution, you may use PayPal (or a debit/credit card) for convenience. Please specify the purpose of the donation (e.g., "Membership January - March 2025").