Learning More to Support Zen Practice

MZMC classes support and encourage meditative practice, compassion, and joyful living. The classes below are part of our larger course curriculum, which provides structured support for exploration of Buddhist teachings to clarify the fundamental questions of our lives. Below are the classes being offered this year.

Introductory Classes

Introduction to Zen Meditation

For those who are curious about meditation, or would like to test the waters, Introduction to Zen Meditation is an introductory series of talks offered each week. Each session includes meditation instruction and teaching on how meditation and Zen relate to daily life.​

Basic Zen Forms and Etiquette

If you are interested in traditional Zen forms: bows, entries and exits, walking meditation, etc? This offering is designed for anyone who'd like an overview of forms to become more familiar and comfortable joining us for morning zazen or one of our sesshins.

Classes and Practice Periods 2025 

 Classes are offered online and in person.
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A Comprehensive Examination of Dogen’s Teachings​
with Tim Burkett and Deb Mielke
January 15 - March 19 (Wednesdays, 7:15 - 8:45 pm)
More information and register

Four Noble Truths 
with Ben Connelly
January 16 - February 27 (Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm; No class February13) 
More information and register
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Spring Practice Period: Gandavyuha Sutra: Continuous Practice of Relationship
with Ben Connelly
April 2 - May 21 (Wednesday Evenings  7:15 - 8:45 pm or Thursday Mornings, April 3 - May 22, 7:30 - 9:00 am) 
More information and register.

Spring Morning Study Group: Cultivating the Empty Field by Hongzhi
with Ted O'Toole
May 6 - June 10 (Tuesday Mornings, 7:30 - 9:00 am)
More information and register.
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Zen Poetry: How is the inexpressible expressed?
with Ben Connelly
May 28 - July 2: (Wednesdays, 7:15 - 8:45 pm) 
More information and register

Zen and Science
with Deb Mielke and Randy Wedin
May 29 - June 26: (Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm) 
More information and register

Creativity and Zen
with Ted O'Toole
July 9 - August 13 (Wednesdays, 7:15 - 8:45 pm) 
More information and register

Awakening the Heart
Practice Mahayana: Emptiness, Heart Sutra 
with Tim Burkett
​August 21 - September 25 (Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm) 
More information and register.

Fall Morning Study Group
with Tim Burkett and Deb Mielke
September 2 - October 7 (Tuesday Mornings, 7:30 - 9:00 am)
More information and register.

Fall Practice Period
with Keido Thotland
October 1 - November 19 (Wednesday Evenings  7:15 - 8:45 pm or Thursday Mornings 7:00 - 9:30 am
More information and register.