Every Sunday Morning

Zen Buddhist Service, Sacred Chants
Compassionate Hearts

Every Sunday Morning

Begin your week with clarity, insight, and heartfelt connection

8:15–8:50 AM
Zen Buddhist Service (Gate of Sweet Nectar Service - 1st and 3rd Sunday each month)
Join us for traditional Zen Buddhist services featuring sacred chants, community offerings, and practices that connect ancient wisdom to compassionate action in our local community.

The Gate of Sweet Nectar service is done as an offering to heal the suffering of hungry ghosts. We invite anyone to donate food items (non-perishables) which are put on the altar during the service, and then donated to a local food pantry.

9:00 – 9:45 AM
Mindfulness Meditation
The gentle resonance of the bell invites you into 45 minutes of meditation. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to Zen, you’ll find this space opening and welcoming.

Dharma Wisdom: 10:00 – 11:00 AM
Each week, our teachers, members, and friends offer insights that bridge ancient wisdom with modern life. Drawing from over four decades of practice in the White Plum lineage, these talks aren’t just lectures–they’re compassionate guides to navigating life’s joys and sorrows.

Kinship & Connection 11:00 AM
After nourishing your spirit, nourish your connections in our warm Community Room. Over light refreshments, the buzz of conversation fills the air. Share your insights, hear others’ stories, or simply enjoy the laughter and fun.

Join in-person at 46 Lake Street in Oak Park. No need to register.
Parking is available on Lake Street in front of the Zen Center

You may also join us online with ZOOM LINK

If zoom asks for a passcode put in 1

Upcoming speakers

August 30
“I Am Who I Think You Think I Am,”
Rev. Jacquelyn Genshin Weiner-O’Shea

September 6
Ango Opening Ceremony

September 13
Sangha Conversation with Roshi Robert

September 20
“Student-Teacher Relationship with Q and A - Roshi Nicolee Jikyo McMahon

September 27 8:45-10:45 am
Family Morning Zen - Kathy Dull and Karleen Machanda

Join us for Family Morning Zen. All are welcome to bring the children in their lives to this special program. The morning will feature Zen-inspired childcare in the Community Room while adults (and older children who are interested) meditate in the Buddha Hall starting at 9:00 am. At 10:00, we will enjoy a family friendly talk, followed by refreshments afterwards. Read more and register below. 👇

Sign up Form to participate in Family Morning Zen

October 4
TBA - Nancy Matsumoto

October 11
“The Koan in Zen Practice”
Roshi Barry McMahon

Oct. 18
Pet Memorial

Oct. 25
Mountain Seat Ceremony
Installing Roshi June Tanoue as Co-Abbot of ZLMC

A sanctuary for
clarity and connection