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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? A dana (gift) of $5 or more for Sunday sitting is customary at O-An. Those who have attended the zendo regularly for three months and anticipate being part of our sangha (community) are encouraged to become members. A regular membership is $300 per year; a student membership is $180. Memberships are payable annually, semi-annually or monthly. Is there beginner's instruction? Beginner's instruction is offered between 9 and 10 am Sundays by prearrangement. Are there any requirements for attendance at O-An? 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. You should arrive and be seated 10 minutes before the meditation service (5 p.m. weekdays; 11 a.m. Sundays). Keeping as still as possible and causing no distractions during sitting supports and respects fellow practitioners in their meditation. Wear loosely fitted and modest clothing. Cushions, benches and chairs are provided in the meditation hall. The zendo is handicap accessible through a rear entrance (please contact us in advance for assistance.) We regularly welcome newcomers. A handbook on the zendo and its protocol and meditation practice is available for 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? The zendo can comfortably hold 25 practitioners, and attendance at our Sunday service can range from a small core group to a full house. We send a monthly O-An News announcement to an extensive email list. To be added to our email, please contact info@oanzendo.org. 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? Children and teenagers are welcome at O-An, both individually and in small groups. Introduction to meditation in the style of Thich Nhat Hanh which is adapted especially for young people is available. Children are always welcome at our special Buddhist celebrations and for work practice. |
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