Chicago Zen Center Header
Visit a Sitting

We invite inquiries into practice at our Center. Attending a Sitting, Dokusan, Chanting Service, or Sunday Teisho is a wonderful way to experience first hand what Zen Buddhism has to offer. It also allows one to witness a vibrant, living Zen community of practitioners interacting at a real Temple, taking time out of their busy lives to practice this ancient Way.

If anyone wishes to experience Zen practice first hand at our Center, either our evening sittings and our Sunday morning teisho practice periods can be attended. Please check our schedule to be sure that an event is scheduled for the evening or Sunday you wish to attend. If there is a “SESSHIN” scheduled, it means that we are in retreat, and we will not be holding regular services. Likewise, we may be closed, which will be indicated on the schedule. But generally, MONDAY, TUESDAY, or THURSDAY EVENINGS, and SUNDAY MORNINGS are available for a visit.

It is necessary that for the evening sitting guests arrive no later that 7:00 p.m., and for Sunday services, guests arrive no later than 7:30 a.m. We absolutely require this extra time to orient newcomers. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. No skirts, please. And we ask that a small monetary donation be made for this initial visit. If you are handicapped, please call ahead so that we may offer guidance. Note that Zen practice requires that participants sit still for lengths of time. Please carefully consider this before attending.

Anyone may also choose to first attend one of our classes on Zen held on first Tuesday of most months. Either way, please come and explore practice with us.

Any questions, just call: 847-475-3015