For Beginners

If you are new to Zen practice and are curious about how to enter into and sustain Buddhist practice at Ocean Gate Zen Center, this page should help you by offering information about events and training opportunities helpful to your exploration of Zen Buddhism.

Where to begin:Zazen/Meditation Instruction is offered by request. Please wear comfortable clothing, and avoid perfume.

Feel free to ask our members about their experiences in practice and at Ocean Gate.

Attend “Come As You Are” our Saturday Morning meditation and lecture. Meditation begins at 9 a.m. followed by a 9:35 a.m. lecture.

• Attend morning sittings on Tuesday, Thursday or Friday morning (see schedule).
• Meet with Rev. Daijaku Kinst or Rev. Shinshu Roberts, Ocean Gate’s teachers.
• Develop a home sitting practice. Our teachers, Jaku and Shinshu will be happy to guide you in your sitting and daily practices outside of the zendo.
• Participate in extended sittings.
• Help with various activities and get to know other community members.
• Add your name to our email list serve and receive updated events announcements.
• Become a Member.
• Sign up for the Weekly Quotation and commentary on the email list serve. See bottom of home page for sign up form.

Sustaining Your Practice:

• Continue a consistent meditation practice both at home and at the Zen Center.
• Participate in community activities.
• Establish a relationship with a teacher.
• Attend Saturday morning talks.
• Participate in sittings and retreats.
• Take classes when offered.