Dharma Student Program

The Dharma Student Program at Dharma Gate Zen is a path of steady learning, practice, and service for those who wish to deepen their connection to the Zen way. It is designed for sincere students who want more than occasional attendance, offering a clear structure for study, meditation, reflection, and sangha participation.

At the heart of the program is a simple commitment: to commit to the way of Zen practice, to listen, to study, to practice, and to live the Dharma more fully in daily life. The program welcomes beginners and experienced practitioners who are ready to cultivate steadiness, humility, and compassion.


Two pathways

This program can be for those interested in dedicating time to understand Zen, expand and deepen practice. This path does not lead to being a Dharma Teacher or any form of ordination. 

Secondarily, the same path can provide a pathway for those who have a calling to become a teacher, or leader in the Sangha at some point. 

Both students follow the same program, but those wishing to teach someday have more study, and should be able to dedicate themselves both in time and discipline to follow a more structured direction. 


General focus

Dharma students may engage with a range of teachings and practices, including:

  • Daily Zazen.
  • Zen devotional practices (chanting, prostrations, etc)
  • Zen culture and etiquette.
  • Direct time with the guiding teacher.
  • Directed course of study.
  • Mindfulness in daily life.
  • Service to the sangha and community.

The curriculum is adjusted to reflect the ongoing development and needs of the student.

 

Who Is This For?

The Dharma Student Program is open to those who feel called to make a more serious commitment to Zen practice. Prior experience is welcome but not required. What matters most is a genuine intention to learn, a willingness to practice regularly, and respect for the clergy and temple community.

Students from all backgrounds may participate, provided they are open to the teachings and the shared life of the sangha. We are particularly looking for the next generation of students and teachers, who can bring an expanded view and voice to our temple. 

Students must be 25 years of age to start. Although we do not have an age cap like some programs, we do require that the student is able to perform physical tasks (cleaning, serving) and be able to sit in meditation for extended periods (on a mat or chair). 

 

Expectations

Dharma students are expected to:

  • Be a supporting member of the temple, and are already attending regularly.

  • Attend Sunday services regularly (minimum 3 times per month)

  • Attend all retreats, classes and holiday events.
  • Dharma students are expected to arrive at 9:00am and clean the temple each Sunday prior to service, and help with all classes and events.
  • Maintain respectful temple conduct.
  • Focus on assigned directions of practice (including meditation, reading or study).
  • Practice honesty, humility, and consistency.

The program asks for commitment, but not perfection. The emphasis is on showing up faithfully and allowing practice to shape the whole person.

How to begin

Those interested in becoming a student are encouraged to speak with Hoden Sunim. An introductory conversation can help determine whether the program is a good fit and what the next step should be.

The Dharma path is not rushed. It is lived one breath, one sitting, and one act of sincerity at a time.