Year-end Fundraising Letter
ZLMC 2024 Year in Photo Slide Show
“When a complex system is far from equilibrium, small islands of coherence in a sea of chaos
have the capacity to shift the entire system to a higher order.”
Ilya Prigone, Nobel Laureate Chemist
As the year draws to a close, we are reminded how vital "islands" of coherence" are in our ever-changing world. At the Zen Life & Meditation Center (ZLMC), our sangha has been a coherent and steadfast refuge–a source of peace, wisdom, and connection amidst life's unpredictability. Together, we are building a foundation of clarity, calm, and compassion, in Oak Park, Illinois, and beyond.
Your generosity has made it possible for our community to thrive this year. With your support, we've achieved incredible milestones, including:
Four Seasons Capital Campaign Success: Raised $30,000 to fund our new heating and cooling system, ensuring a welcoming and comfortable space year-round.
Record Participation: During our Ango period of intensive practice and reflection we had the hightest number of attendees ever–a testament to the growing hunger for mindfulness and presence.
Shukke Tokudo Zen Buddhist Priest Ordination: Celebrating the novitiate priest ordinations of Kelly Junmei Good and James Kanshin Sullivan.
Two Jukai Ceremonies: Supporting Melanie Hoetsu Jessen and Ken Daigu Hillman in deepening their commitment to the Bodhisattva path.
Increased Service in the Community: Supporting Grace Episcopal Church with volunteers for meals and hula performances for immigrants, collections for Sarah's Inn and its Christmas support for families and coordinaring Thanksgiving "Adopt a Family" with the Oak Park Community of Congregations.
We're also very excited about our Mindfulness and the Art of Imperfect Parenting classes the Karleen Manchanda and Kathy Dull are teaching in 2025. They've been meeting regularly with parents the last couple of years to get input into a solid curriculum.
These accomplishments represent the beating heart of our community. Here are just a few reflections from members whose lives have been touched by ZLMC:
"ZLMC is a true haven for spiritual growth and connection. The teachings and meditative practices provide profound clarity and peace, while our warm, inclusive community fosters a deep sense of support and belonging. With enriching programs like 'Sunday Morning Zen', mindfulness classes, retreats, and community building, it's more than a place of practice–it's a sanctuary for collective transformation. So grateful to have ZLMC as my spiritual home."
~ Rev. Kelly Junmei Good, 2024 Ango Shuso (Head Trainee)
"When I first came to ZLMC earlier this year, I wasn't sure what to expect. As soon as I walked in, I felt a sense of ease and belonging I hadn't expected. Over time, ZLMC has become my 'third place' and Sunday Morning Zen has become the highlight of my week! No matter who you are or where you're at in life, this is a place where you're welcomed just as you are."
~ Alexis Cazarez
"I remember feeling a bit anxious when I first attended Sunday Morning Zen at ZLMC, as I didn't know anyone and was attending alone. However, as soon as I stepped into the Buddha Hall, I was warmly welcomed with friendly smiles and a genuine sense of caring from everyoe present. I'm truly grateful to have discovered such a kind and open community at ZLMC, and to now be a part of a supportive Sangha."
~ Ahn Nguyen
"We all need community. When I think of meaningful community, I always look to our ZLMC Sangha. I always find friendship and support here."
~ Mark Shishin Gelula
As we look ahead, your continued support will ensure that ZLMC remains a sanctuary of practice and learning. With your help, we will deepen our offerings, sustain our physical space, and foster a welcoming environment for anyone seeking a spiritual home in these turbulent times.
Your gift – whether one of time, talent, or treasure – makes all the difference. Every contribution sustains this vibrant Sangha and brings us closer to the compassionate world we envision.
Together, we can broaden and sustain our 'island of coherence' that will ripple far beyond our walls. Will you join us in strengthening this sacred foundation and refuge for community?
With deep gratitude and warm wishes for the coming year,
Roshi Robert Joshin Althouse and Roshi June Ryushin Tanoue
Co-Founders, Zen Life & Meditation Center, Chicago