First Zen Institute

Opportunities for Volunteers

The First Zen Institute is managed and maintained through the voluntary efforts of its residents and members. This means there are many opportunites for those who are interested. Following are some areas for participation:

Publications

Zen Notes, the Institute's quarterly: can use book reviewing, desk top publishing functions,.
The Institute has also published a number of books, including Cat's Yawn, Zen Eye, and Zen Pivots, and is preparing some manuscripts for future publication: can use typists, copyeditors, Japanese-to-English translators, and researchers.

Construction

The upkeep of our building and garden can often use the help of people with construction and supervisory skills for group and individual projects at the Institute.

Zendo-Related Activities

Morning and evening zazen:
timekeepers (sr. members)/ zendo cleaning.

Wednesday night open house:
Introduces new members to meditation practice and the Institute: timekeepers, doorkeepers.

Monthly weekend sittings:
The Institute holds intensive weekend zazen, normally on the second weekend of the month.

Eating, working sitting:
Includes one hour of meditation, cleaning, and informal lunch: cooks, cleaners.