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

FAQs
Service Liturgy

Upcoming speakers

Nov. 30, 2025
Shukke Tokudo Ordination Ceremony
for Patrick Ungo O’Shea with Roshi Robert

Dec. 7, 2025
Closing Ango Ceremony (Shuso Hossen)

Dec. 14, 2025
Family Morning Zen
Rev. Kelly Jumei Good

Dec. 21, 2025
TBA - Dharma Talk
Daniel Good

Dec. 28, 2025
Embodiment
Samantha Lotti

Jan. 4, 2026
”Immunity to Change”
Robert Demaree

Jan. 11, 2026
”Trust”
Roshi Robert Althouse

Jan. 18, 2026
Jukai for Jackie Popp
with Preceptor, Rev. Diane Myogetsu Bejcek

A sanctuary for
clarity and connection