Classes, Workshops, Retreats,
and More
No one is turned away for lack of funds. We REALLY want you to take advantage of our programs!
From Sosan, our Guiding Teacher:
Some people have told us that they don't attend as many classes as they'd like because they can't afford to pay the full asking price (the price we say covers teacher payments and Clouds admin/staffing). If you are such a person, please know this: your attendance at any of our programs is a huge benefit in and of itself. All the teachers give the dharma freely. It doesn't save Clouds any money in admin and staffing if you don't attend. If you decide not to attend, then we lose your valuable input, and your fellow Sangha members lose the opportunity to practice with you. Attitudes like "I don't deserve to attend if I can't pay full price" come from a mindset of separation and scarcity. This is not the Buddha Way.
So, what is the Buddha Way with regard to giving? Giving and receiving have to do with realizing that we are not separate. That we cannot exist on our own.
Thank you for the generous gift of your presence and supporting our practice with your own!
Please note that processing fees for EFT payments are lower than credit card fees. You can elect to cover fees as part of your donation. Many thanks!
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Getting Started in Zen
Various Dates
7 pm -9 pmIn this 2-hour workshop, you receive all the tools you need to get started on your personal journey in Zen practice.
Instruction will be given in zazen meditation, basic Buddhist philosophy, developing a home practice, as well as practicing as part of a community.
There will be plenty of time for questions and conversation!
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Practicing the Ancient Way: Outdoor Sitting, Walking, and Dharma Discussion
Thursdays, June 26, July 17 and August 28, 6:30 - 8 pm
With Myoshin Benjamin and Sosan Flynn.
Note: The sessions will not be held if it is raining.
This summer, we are offering three evenings of sitting in the outdoors. We'll meet in the southwest corner of Newell Park, 900 N. Fairview Avenue, St. Paul. Bring your own chair, cushion and/or blanket for sitting, bug repellent, and water bottle (if desired). You may attend one, two or all three sessions.
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Realizing Deep Peace and Relaxation
July Hokyoji Retreat
Saturday, July 26 - Saturday, August 2. (3-Night or 7-Night Options)
with Sosan Flynn and MyoOn HaglerIn-person only.
Registration Deadline: July 19.During this week, Sosan and MyoOn will share teachings from a variety of Soto Zen Buddhist teachers on how to realize deep peace and relaxation during these troubled times. We hope you will take this opportunity to fully enter into Zen practice so that you may respond to your life and the world with compassion, wisdom and resilience.