Below are some of the things the MSZC offers on a regular basis.

“Help out where you can”
The MSZC helps out wherever and whenever it can, ready to travel to answer requests for speakers, meditation instructions, and retreat leadership.. This motto harkens back to the Buddha’s instruction for his disciples to go out and teach the Dharma whenever asked to do so.

“Zen Mind, Ordinary Mind” Retreats
Zen Mind, Ordinary Mind retreats offer a means of practice specifically designed and intended for the lay practitioner. The retreats employ methods that emphasize spiritual autonomy and equality and encourage intimacy among the participants. They are based on traditional Soto Zen forms augmented with training on how to retain and express that learning in daily life.

Collaborative Sangha Study
Collaborative study focuses on a chosen topic using dialogue communication techniques based on the teachings of David Bohm. The group interplay yields an intimate exchange of insights and deepening of Sangha interaction.

Personalized Collaborative Study
One-on-one meditation instruction and study personalized to a practitioner’s requirements is offered for those wanting to enhance their practice beyond the group setting. Meetings are scheduled periodically to review assigned and independent portions of the study. Attention to the differences and relationship of primary and secondary forms of practice is emphasized.

Zen Practice and Metaphor Awareness
The practice of Zen Meditation, particularly Shikantaza of the Soto tradition, is uniquely compatible with a process called Metaphor Awareness. Skills necessary for meditation are the same required for Metaphor Awareness. Working metaphorically allows interaction with our internal processes, identifying and removing obstacles in a non-intrusive and respectful manner. Metaphor Awareness, like Zen Meditation, allows direct participation with the wisdom of the non-dual mind through our active attention.