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The practice of Zen has always been based on a strong effort by the individual.  Becoming a Member or Friend of the Center can assist in that effort by providing opportunities to strengthen Zen practice, cultivate mindfulness in everyday life, and more deeply engage in our supportive community.  


Membership


Membership is open to anyone 18 years of age and over.  Even those not wishing to become a student of Roshi Bodhin Kjolhede, Abbot of the Rochester Zen Center, as well as students of other teachers are welcome as members.  We do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, age, religion, or sexual orientation. 


Zen Center members may participate in our activities to whatever extent they wish.  Members may:

  • Attend formal and informal meditation sessions, group and individual instructions, Zen talks/commentaries, study-discussion groups, and observances and ceremonies. 
  • Contribute to the spiritual functioning of the Center by being trained in timing, monitoring, and other zendo duties. 
  • Receive preference for retreats, classes, and workshops. 
  • Receive discounts on fee-based retreats, residential training, materials, classes, and workshops. 
  • Receive a complimentary subscription to Zen Bow, a quarterly journal published by the Rochester Zen Center.
  • Attend secular functions of the Center such as picnics, potlucks, and other social activities. 
  • Take part in governing the Center and setting administrative policy by voting in the election of directors and upon matters before meetings of members, by serving on committees, and by running for office on the board of directors. 

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Friendship


​An alternative way of strengthening and becoming more deeply engaged in the practice of Zen is by becoming a Friend of the Center. Friends are those who, due to distance or some other reason, do not participate in our activities yet wish to maintain a mutually supportive relationship with LZC. To encourage your personal spiritual growth and keep you informed of our activities, Friends will:


  • Be added to Louisville Zen Center’s mailing list.   
  • Receive a complimentary subscription to Zen Bow, a quarterly journal published by the Rochester Zen Center.