Barre Zen Meditation Center, Kokyoji (Eternal Mirror Temple) Meets at the Parish House First Church in Barre, Universalist

19 Church St.

Sundays: 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. doors open: 5:40 P.M.

“To open your innate nature and to feel something from the bottom of your heart, it is necessary to remain silent. Through this kind of practice you will have a more intuitive understanding of the teaching. Not to talk does not mean to be deaf and dumb, but to listen to your intuition”

~Shunryu Suzuki

Shikantaza, “just sitting,” is the quintessential form of Soto Zen Buddhist meditation. The practice integrates insight and calming. Shikantaza will be followed by Kinhin (walking meditation), which is a first step in bringing our practice off of the cushion and into the world. A dharma talk and discussion will follow. We will conclude with a brief recitation and affirmation for the benefit of all beings.  We work with the Zen attitude of “beginner’s mind.” All are welcome first timers as well as experienced practitioners as we take the first steps toward developing a Zen community through the generous sponsorship of the First Church in Barre, Universalist. Questions? Concerns? or to schedule Dokusan (Individual practice meeting) feel free to contact our guiding teacher Rev. Seiso contact page link

Barre Zen Center Schedule & Protocol

5:40 Doors Open, Informal Fellowship

5:55 Call to Order Bell & Jundo (Silent Formal Greeting)

Please note that you must be seated before 6:00 to participate.

6:00 Zazen (Guided & Silent)

6:25 Kinhin (Walking Meditation)

6:30 Dharma Talk & Informal Discussion

6:55 Evening Gatha & Closing

7:00 Equipment Storage & Departure

Please plan to arrive and to be seated by 6:00. No late arrivals. The Zendo entry will be locked at 5:55 to maintain the integrity of the meditative space and for security purposes.

The side porch entry door is open from 5:40 – 5:55.

Regarding Jundo: Jundo is a silent informal greeting. It is a simple acknowledgment of our presence together as sangha. Gassho to Sangha (group) is a simple, efficient and quiet way to acknowledge, greet and honor your fellow practitioners, while maintaining silence in the meditation space. It is simply how we say “hello” and “goodbye” in the Zen tradition.

Friday Morning Zazen with Seiso Sensei: On Insight Timer:

7:00- 7:30 A.M. Link

30 Minute session includes: Kusen (Brief spontaneous talk) Guided and Silent Meditation, concludes with recitation of the Morning Gatha to focus our intentions for the day. All are welcome to feel the silence and energy of shared presence and practice. 7:00 Entry & Informal Greetings, 7:05 Zazen Bells. 7:30 Morning Gatha & Conclusion

Remember, the universe in sitting is far different from other universes. Clearly understanding this truth, Buddhist patriarchs pursue and realize the establishment of the will, training, the state of bodhi, and nirvana.”

~ Eihei Dogen: “Zanmai O Zanmai”