Open Gate Zendo
Saturdays at 9:30 am
Every Saturday, we are gathering in the zendo every Saturday morning at 9:30 AM for Zazen and Dharma talks. After the Dharma talk, everyone will be welcome to stay and enjoy coffee, tea, snacks, and a little camaraderie! Please come and join us! Everyone is welcome.
If it is your first time we recommend to come at 9:00 am to give you a brief orientation.
Or Join us online via Zoom!
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Bodhidharma Sit Day
Bodhidharma Sit Day
This zazen day is to remember and honor our first Zen ancestor, Bodhidharma, who brought the teachings from India to China; Bodhidharma Sit Day is to renew our commitment to practice. Our practice will be unstructured, with no bells, no dharma talks, no interviews, no meals. Just Sitting, you will find your rhythm for your practice: Sitting, Walking, Resting, Stretching. You are on your own. We start at 9 am and end at 6 pm. You can come for part-time (3 hrs minimum). The door will be open at 9 am, 12 pm, and 3 pm. (Coming or Going).
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
OG Sangha Gathering: Council & PotLuck
OG Sangha Summer Gathering
After our regular public meditation service: Open Gate Zendo, we will be gathering for our seasonal council and Pot Luck.
The process of Council comes from a number of Native American traditions, and has been used by many non-native people for generations to facilitate meaningful interaction. A group is gathered in a circle for a conversation about a specific topic. The opportunity to speak is given one at a time to all members of the Council, often passing a “talking piece” clockwise around the circle to identify the speaker.
A facilitator is charged with maintaining the boundaries of the circle to protect the process. Council uses four simple intentions that provide the basis for interaction in the council circle. The four basic intentions:
1. “Listen from the heart”
2. “Speak from the heart”
3. “Speak spontaneously”
4. “Speak leanly”
COUNCIL is about relationships. It is about creating an experience of bonding, empathy, teamwork, trust, rapport, fellowship, community, and ultimately love. See less
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zazen Day
Zazen Day
Zazen Day is a great opportunity for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• Retreat Fees: $54 - $108 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
TO APPLY: Please complete an online zen retreat questionnaire. Additionally, click here for a downloadable PDF of Guidelines of Conduct for a Practice Period or Zen Retreat. At the end of the retreat questionnaire, you will be asked to affirm that you have read the Guidelines. Thank you.
Ancestor’s Day
Dia de Los Muertos (Ancestor’s Day)
Experience the vibrant celebration known as "Ullambana Day" or "Ancestor's Day," a tradition that traces its origins back to the time of the Buddha. Within the pages of the Ullambana Sutra, a compelling tale unfolds: the Buddha imparts wisdom to his devoted disciple Maudgalyāyana, guiding him on the path to liberate his mother, who had been reborn in a lower realm. This liberation was achieved through the act of offering food to the sangha on the fifteenth day of the seventh month. This act, accompanied by a surge in monks attaining enlightenment, filled the Buddha with immense joy.
Across diverse cultures worldwide, similar customs exist—a dedicated day to show united support of the sick and pay respects to departed family members and friends. These traditions encompass more than just somber remembrances; they involve festive gatherings, delectable food and beverages, heartfelt prayers, and fond reminiscences. These rituals serve as a spiritual practice, underscoring the significance of commemorating and honoring the lives of our cherished ancestors while wishing for their spiritual emancipation.
In the Mexican tradition, the Day of the Dead celebrations emerged from ancient practices observed by pre-Columbian cultures, a rich heritage spanning millennia.
Join us, the Open Gate Zen Collective, as we host a heartfelt sangha service dedicated to those who have passed and those grappling with illness. The schedule includes Zazen at 5:30 PM, a solemn service at 6 PM, and an enjoyable potluck dinner to follow. You're encouraged to bring a photograph or a cherished memento of your loved ones to place on our altar. In keeping with Mexican customs, we extend an invitation for you to prepare your loved ones' favorite dishes and share them with us. Whether in person or via Zoom, your presence is warmly welcome. Please RSVP to join us in this meaningful gathering.
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zen Weekend Retreat
Zen Weekend Retreat
The Zen weekend retreat is for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $108- $216 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
OG Sangha Gathering: Council & PotLuck
OG Sangha Summer Gathering
After our regular public meditation service: Open Gate Zendo, we will be gathering for our seasonal council and Pot Luck.
The process of Council comes from a number of Native American traditions, and has been used by many non-native people for generations to facilitate meaningful interaction. A group is gathered in a circle for a conversation about a specific topic. The opportunity to speak is given one at a time to all members of the Council, often passing a “talking piece” clockwise around the circle to identify the speaker.
A facilitator is charged with maintaining the boundaries of the circle to protect the process. Council uses four simple intentions that provide the basis for interaction in the council circle. The four basic intentions:
1. “Listen from the heart”
2. “Speak from the heart”
3. “Speak spontaneously”
4. “Speak leanly”
COUNCIL is about relationships. It is about creating an experience of bonding, empathy, teamwork, trust, rapport, fellowship, community, and ultimately love. See less
Zen Retreat Sesshin
Zen Retreat Sesshin
Sesshin means ‘gathering the heart/mind’. It is an intensive, multi-day Zen meditation retreat with a consistent schedule that creates a deep, quiet container for practice. This retreat is for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $225 - $450 (Sliding Scale)
• You can attend partially ($60 per day)
• Hybrid retreat, donation only (Ask for the link)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for a scholarship)
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zen Weekend Retreat
Zen Weekend Retreat
The Zen weekend retreat is for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $108- $216 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
OG Sangha Gathering: Council & PotLuck
OG Sangha Summer Gathering
After our regular public meditation service: Open Gate Zendo, we will be gathering for our seasonal council and Pot Luck.
The process of Council comes from a number of Native American traditions, and has been used by many non-native people for generations to facilitate meaningful interaction. A group is gathered in a circle for a conversation about a specific topic. The opportunity to speak is given one at a time to all members of the Council, often passing a “talking piece” clockwise around the circle to identify the speaker.
A facilitator is charged with maintaining the boundaries of the circle to protect the process. Council uses four simple intentions that provide the basis for interaction in the council circle. The four basic intentions:
1. “Listen from the heart”
2. “Speak from the heart”
3. “Speak spontaneously”
4. “Speak leanly”
COUNCIL is about relationships. It is about creating an experience of bonding, empathy, teamwork, trust, rapport, fellowship, community, and ultimately love. See less
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zen Weekend Retreat
Zen Weekend Retreat
The Zen weekend retreat is for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $108- $216 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zazen Day
Zazen Day
Zazen Day is a great opportunity for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• Retreat Fees: $54 - $108 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
TO APPLY: Please complete an online zen retreat questionnaire. Additionally, click here for a downloadable PDF of Guidelines of Conduct for a Practice Period or Zen Retreat. At the end of the retreat questionnaire, you will be asked to affirm that you have read the Guidelines. Thank you.
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
OG Sangha Gathering: Council & PotLuck
OG Sangha Summer Gathering
After our regular public meditation service: Open Gate Zendo, we will be gathering for our seasonal council and Pot Luck.
The process of Council comes from a number of Native American traditions, and has been used by many non-native people for generations to facilitate meaningful interaction. A group is gathered in a circle for a conversation about a specific topic. The opportunity to speak is given one at a time to all members of the Council, often passing a “talking piece” clockwise around the circle to identify the speaker.
A facilitator is charged with maintaining the boundaries of the circle to protect the process. Council uses four simple intentions that provide the basis for interaction in the council circle. The four basic intentions:
1. “Listen from the heart”
2. “Speak from the heart”
3. “Speak spontaneously”
4. “Speak leanly”
COUNCIL is about relationships. It is about creating an experience of bonding, empathy, teamwork, trust, rapport, fellowship, community, and ultimately love. See less
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zen Weekend Retreat
Zen Weekend Retreat
Join us for Zen weekend retreats designed for those who seek to deepen their practice, take a step back from the business of life, and reconnect with themselves. Over the course of the retreat, we do sitting and walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice—all opportunities to cultivate presence and awareness.
Retreats offer a rare chance to slow down and explore the nature of our thoughts, emotions, and mind, observing how they shape our daily lives. Through stillness, we create space for insight and clarity to emerge.
To support this journey, we observe noble silence. In this silence, we open ourselves to a deeper understanding of life’s true nature, realizing our interconnection with all beings.
*The Retreats are limited to 12 people. (Small Zendo)
*You can join us online via Zoom
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $90 - $180 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
Intro to Jukai
Introduction to Jukai
Sat, Feb 7th, 2026
11:30 am - 1 pm
This gathering is an orientation for anybody who wants to know or is curious about the Buddhist precepts and formalizes the practice into the path of awakening. Give information on studying and exploring Zen Buddhist precepts with the sangha.
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
OG Sangha Lunar New Year Gathering: Council & PotLuck
OG Sangha Summer Gathering
After our regular public meditation service: Open Gate Zendo, we will be gathering for our seasonal council and Pot Luck.
The process of Council comes from a number of Native American traditions, and has been used by many non-native people for generations to facilitate meaningful interaction. A group is gathered in a circle for a conversation about a specific topic. The opportunity to speak is given one at a time to all members of the Council, often passing a “talking piece” clockwise around the circle to identify the speaker.
A facilitator is charged with maintaining the boundaries of the circle to protect the process. Council uses four simple intentions that provide the basis for interaction in the council circle. The four basic intentions:
1. “Listen from the heart”
2. “Speak from the heart”
3. “Speak spontaneously”
4. “Speak leanly”
COUNCIL is about relationships. It is about creating an experience of bonding, empathy, teamwork, trust, rapport, fellowship, community, and ultimately love. See less
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zen Weekend Retreat
Zen Weekend Retreat
The Zen weekend retreat is for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $90 - $180 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Want to learn meditation? OG Zen Collective offers free classes on each first Monday of the month! These classes are open to those interested in learning how to meditate.
The classes provide beginners with a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the meditation room (zendo). Participants will learn how to meditate (zazen), relax the body and mind, focus the mind, and practice proper meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist meditation methods will be presented, along with time to ask questions.
This class is a great starting point for anyone who is curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
New to Zen? how to meditate? OG Zen Collective offers classes on the first Monday of each month, for those who are interested in learning to meditate. The classes provide new beginners a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the Meditation room, (Zendo). One will learn to meditate (Zazen), relax body and mind, focus the mind, and learn meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist methods of meditation will be presented, time to ask questions. This class is a great starting point for those who are curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Ancestor’s Day
Dia de Los Muertos (Ancestor’s Day)
Experience the vibrant celebration known as "Ullambana Day" or "Ancestor's Day," a tradition that traces its origins back to the time of the Buddha. Within the pages of the Ullambana Sutra, a compelling tale unfolds: the Buddha imparts wisdom to his devoted disciple Maudgalyāyana, guiding him on the path to liberate his mother, who had been reborn in a lower realm. This liberation was achieved through the act of offering food to the sangha on the fifteenth day of the seventh month. This act, accompanied by a surge in monks attaining enlightenment, filled the Buddha with immense joy.
Across diverse cultures worldwide, similar customs exist—a dedicated day to show united support of the sick and pay respects to departed family members and friends. These traditions encompass more than just somber remembrances; they involve festive gatherings, delectable food and beverages, heartfelt prayers, and fond reminiscences. These rituals serve as a spiritual practice, underscoring the significance of commemorating and honoring the lives of our cherished ancestors while wishing for their spiritual emancipation.
In the Mexican tradition, the Day of the Dead celebrations emerged from ancient practices observed by pre-Columbian cultures, a rich heritage spanning millennia.
Join us, the Open Gate Zen Collective, as we host a heartfelt sangha service dedicated to those who have passed and those grappling with illness. The schedule includes Zazen at 5:30 PM, a solemn service at 6 PM, and an enjoyable potluck dinner to follow. You're encouraged to bring a photograph or a cherished memento of your loved ones to place on our altar. In keeping with Mexican customs, we extend an invitation for you to prepare your loved ones' favorite dishes and share them with us. Whether in person or via Zoom, your presence is warmly welcome. Please RSVP to join us in this meaningful gathering.
Bodhidharma Sit Day
Bodhidharma Sit Day
This zazen day is to remember and honor our first Zen ancestor, Bodhidharma, who brought the teachings from India to China; Bodhidharma Sit Day is to renew our commitment to practice. Our practice will be unstructured, with no bells, no dharma talks, no interviews, no meals. Just Sitting, you will find your rhythm for your practice: Sitting, Walking, Resting, Stretching. You are on your own. We start at 9 am and end at 6 pm. You can come for part-time (3 hrs minimum). The door will be open at 9 am, 12 pm, and 3 pm. (Coming or Going).
OG Sangha Gathering: Council & PotLuck
OG Sangha Fall Gathering
After our regular public meditation service: Open Gate Zendo, we will be gathering for our seasonal council and Pot Luck.
The process of Council comes from a number of Native American traditions, and has been used by many non-native people for generations to facilitate meaningful interaction. A group is gathered in a circle for a conversation about a specific topic. The opportunity to speak is given one at a time to all members of the Council, often passing a “talking piece” clockwise around the circle to identify the speaker.
A facilitator is charged with maintaining the boundaries of the circle to protect the process. Council uses four simple intentions that provide the basis for interaction in the council circle. The four basic intentions:
1. “Listen from the heart”
2. “Speak from the heart”
3. “Speak spontaneously”
4. “Speak leanly”
COUNCIL is about relationships. It is about creating an experience of bonding, empathy, teamwork, trust, rapport, fellowship, community, and ultimately love. See less
Dia de Zazen
Organizaremos nuestro primer día completo de meditación desde las 6 am hasta las 6 pm. Esta práctica silenciosa de un día completo nos brindará una experiencia profunda de meditación ininterrumpida. Haremos meditación sentada (zazen), meditación caminando (kinhin) y una charla sobre el Dharma; también habrá una entrevista privada con Sensei Shinzan. Este día completo de meditación es una gran oportunidad para familiarizarse con la meditación y la forma Zen. También brindará una visión de un retiro de meditación intensivo, mejor conocido como "Sesshin". Se proporcionará una comida vegetariana.
For favor reservar contactar nos en ogzencollective@gmail.com
Costo: De $54 a $108 (Escala proporcional).
A Nadie se le negara la participacion por falta de fundos.
Zen Retreat Sesshin
Zen Retreat Sesshin
Sesshin means ‘gathering the heart/mind’. It is an intensive, multi-day Zen meditation retreat with a consistent schedule that creates a deep, quiet container for practice. This retreat is for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $220 - $430 (Sliding Scale)
• You can attend partially ($60 per day)
• Hybrid retreat, donation only (Ask for the link)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for a scholarship)
Introduction to Zen Meditation
Introduction to Zen Meditation Class
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
New to Zen? how to meditate? OG Zen Collective offers classes on the first Monday of each month, for those who are interested in learning to meditate. The classes provide new beginners a brief introduction to Zen practice, teachings, and the etiquette of the Meditation room, (Zendo). One will learn to meditate (Zazen), relax body and mind, focus the mind, and learn meditation postures. In addition, different Buddhist methods of meditation will be presented, time to ask questions. This class is a great starting point for those who are curious about or new to Zen.
Wear comfortable clothing
Donation is appreciated.
Zen Weekend Retreat
Zen Weekend Retreat
The Zen weekend retreat is for those who want to experience, commit to, and strengthen their practice, taking a step backward and bringing out the light within. During this time, we will focus on sitting meditation, walking meditation, mindful eating, and work practice. Retreats are a wonderful opportunity to study the nature of our minds, thoughts, and feelings and to see how they impact our lives. It is a good time to slow down and allow our minds the chance to settle into stillness. We will observe noble silence during the retreat, creating a peaceful and harmonious environment. The silence provides the opportunity to understand and appreciate the true nature of our lives, recognizing the unity between ourselves and others.
Details of the Retreat
• Vegetarian meals are provided (if you have a restrictive diet, you are welcome to bring your own food)
• You have the option of sleeping at the Zendo or commuting (staying is recommended).
• Retreat Fees: $90 - $180 (Sliding Scale)
• Nobody will turn away for lack of funds (Ask for scholarship)
OG Sangha Gathering: Council & PotLuck
OG Sangha Summer Gathering
After our regular public meditation service: Open Gate Zendo, we will be gathering for our seasonal council and Pot Luck.
The process of Council comes from a number of Native American traditions, and has been used by many non-native people for generations to facilitate meaningful interaction. A group is gathered in a circle for a conversation about a specific topic. The opportunity to speak is given one at a time to all members of the Council, often passing a “talking piece” clockwise around the circle to identify the speaker.
A facilitator is charged with maintaining the boundaries of the circle to protect the process. Council uses four simple intentions that provide the basis for interaction in the council circle. The four basic intentions:
1. “Listen from the heart”
2. “Speak from the heart”
3. “Speak spontaneously”
4. “Speak leanly”
COUNCIL is about relationships. It is about creating an experience of bonding, empathy, teamwork, trust, rapport, fellowship, community, and ultimately love. See less
OG Practice Period 2025
Open Gate Zen Collective
Practice Period 2025
June 18th - July 27th
The 36 day Practice Period is a beautiful reminder of our everyday life practice, showing how ordinary life can embody the way of a Buddha. This period marks our annual intensive practice session, during which we will delve into a classic Zen Teachings. The Platform Sutra The teachings of Huineng.
Huineng (Hui-neng) (638—713)
“Because I was illiterate, I asked someone to read it. Once I heard it, I understood what was truly important, and I also composed a gatha. I asked someone who could write to write it on the west corridor wall so that I could reveal my mind. Unless you know your own mind, studying the Dharma is useless. But once you know your mind and see your nature, you understand what is truly important.”
“The mind is the bodhi tree
the body is the mirror’s stand
the mirror itself is so clean
dust has no place to land”
Please join us as we explore the sixth patriotic’s profound teaching.
Book : The Platform Sutra. The teachings of Huinneg By Red Pine.
During this Practice Period, we intensify our daily practice by sitting zazen more frequently, attending classes, having private interviews with Sensei Shinzan, engaging in council practice, participating in a weekend retreat and precept ceremony, and culminating in a Zen Retreat Sesshin. Additionally, we will host seminars throughout the year 2025-2026 to continue exploring and studying Huineng’s teachings.
Participants will determine the level of their commitment and create their realistic schedules. We will support each other through a buddy system.
All participants will choose the level of their commitment. They are create their schedule, realistically. We will support each other through a buddy system.