Zen Center Village Zendo

I attended my first Buddhist Sunday service here today and it was lovely. I will undoubtedly be returning the following week, as both teachers & students alike were welcoming, helpful (as I am new to the customers of the zen tradition, they showed me proper forms and etiquette, while being patient enough when I did forget something). Following a brief introductory service, we did a 30 min zazen, (sitting meditation in the zen style) followed by a kishin (walking meditation) for about 10 minutes, then back to another 30 min zazen, and closing with a final kishin. As a newcomer, I was offered to see a teacher for a private interview in which I was able to ask any question about the zendo or Buddhism at large—truly, it was everything I had hoped for in looking for a sangha. There were also people of multiple ages and levels of practice so don’t feel nervous, just come on in on a Sunday morning. That’s what I did, and it was lovely. Thank you all again for your hospitality! 🩷

Their Sunday service is really good! It starts promptly at 9:30am every Sunday, be sure to arrive a few minutes early. To find the entrance, look down the alleyway street for a black sign that says “Village Zendo” hanging out from the building, and then press the buzzer to be let in through the door.

I only went once. But I am sure to go again. I felt so much warmth and love coming out of here.

The Village Zendo is a wonderful, warm, welcoming place. I was a little hesitant to get involved in an organized religious community but felt very at home at the Zendo from the first time I went. It has many teachers so there isn't a 'cult of personality' around one figure. The two most senior teachers are women (who are married to each other), which some people might find helps foster a safe and welcoming atmosphere. There are many ways to practice at the Village Zendo, from simply coming and sitting quietly in zazen (sitting meditation), to listening to talks, having interviews with teachers, and participating in traditional Zen services. Some other places are more strict about the way they do things while others are more loose and basically devoid of traditional elements. I've found the Village Zendo to have just the right balance: traditional elements are honored and maintained but in an open, relaxed way.

The Village Zendo has made a profound difference in my life and the lives of many others. It is a welcoming group that balances serious practice with great joy and fun. Come to learn to meditate, stay to change your life.

Profound authentic Zen practice in a welcoming environment. Great experienced teachers and senior students. Beautiful quiet meditation daily. On Sunday's and Thursday evening there are interesting contemporary Dharma talks. Beginning instruction is every Monday evening. The are cool events, workshops and activities that support a lively community.

Similar to other reviewers, I live quite a distance from the Village Zendo. I, nonetheless, am a member and formal student of VZ. I find the community welcoming, vibrant, diverse and deeply intentional. Led by Enkyo Roshi, our teachers are engaged, astute, open, available... true mentors and practice leaders. VZ retreats and programs are powerful, challenging, transformative. I am so grateful for and to this sangha! Belonging to the VZ community is well-worth the logistics of my living at a distance.