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Below are some questions we often hear from newcomers: Is the kyosaku used at O-An? No. Are there any fees or charges? There is no membership fee. The suggested donation (dana) for Sunday Sitting is $5. For Full-day Sitting, $15. Alternate work service as dana is possible, as no one is ever turned away for lack of funds. O-An is a non-profit organization and is completely self-sustaining. Is there beginner's instruction? Yes. It is offered by request every Sunday at 10 a.m. Please write to info@oanzendo.org. Are there any requirements for attendance at O-An? No. No special dress or equipment is required. No prior experience with meditation is necessary, nor is any understanding or affiliation with Buddhism expected. What do I need to know before visiting O-An? Silence is observed when entering the zendo. We encourage complete stillness, and discourage unnecessary movement during meditation, so as to recognize the integrity of practice and the needs of fellow practitioners. Wear loosely-fitted clothing. Cushions, benches and chairs are provided, and all are used. We welcome newcomers. Does religion have a role at O-An? No particular religion is practiced at O-An, although Zen Buddhism is the focus. Our Sunday service includes meditation and simple rituals such as incense-lighting, chanting, and bowing. The purpose of these is to attune ourselves to the present moment. For more details, please follow this link. How many attend the zendo or are affiliated with it? Sunday attendance ranges from approximately 8 to 25. We have 93 persons on our email list, many of whom participate in our program. Who leads the meditation? Generally, leadership of the meditation is shared by Sangha members. There is no appointed teacher or single leader of the O-An Sangha (community). Where is O-An Zendo located? O-An is located in Julian Woods Community, about half an hour from State College, Pennsylvania, off Alternate Route 220 between Port Matilda and Milesburg. For directions, please follow this link. Are children welcome at the zendo? We welcome children at the zendo, and provide a separate children's program with activities such as meditation, yoga, and art, while adults sit meditation. |
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