Sangha Membership

Membership at Dharma Gate Zen is available to all who are interested in a place to learn about Zen, find balance and peace of mind.

If you are new to Dharma Gate Zen and would like to visit prior to becoming a member, or a student on a class assignment, please refer to our visitor guide prior to attending.  You can find our visitor guide here: VISITOR GUIDE

Supporting Membership

We are a non-profit and none of our teachers or leaders are paid. Each person (both in the Zendo and for our Iaido class) is volunteering time to support, guide, and teach those who come.

As a non-profit, Dharma Gate Zen relies entirely on the donations of our members to keep the temple open and pay for expenses (rent, supplies, utilities, etc.). We have no other source of income other than donations from our members. Those who are financially challenged can offer less than that amount by contacting us directly. We understand financial hardship is difficult and we will work with those in need to be included.

We have many options available to support us. Below is a general guideline:

Individual Membership: $40 per month ($10 per week)

Family of four (or more): $120 per month ($30 per week)

Membership includes participation in all of the following:

• Sunday services
• Weekday meditations (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday)
• Buddhist holiday services
• Opportunity to take precepts
• Introduction to Buddhism and Meditation classes
• Sangha-led discussion groups
• Book discussion groups
• Sangha Retreats
• Meditative Creative meetings
• Homonji Iaido classes (see below)
• Friday evening mini-retreats

Throughout the year, there will be additional events when supporting members may be asked to contribute. The requested donation will be either: a.) to help cover the additional cost incurred by facilitating a special event, or b.) to support an event that is specifically designated as a fund-raiser.

We allow visitors to schedule a time to attend prior to becoming a member. Please refer to our visitor guide for more information.

Homonji Iaido

(Japanese Sword Arts) classes are offered three times per week as a way to gain focus, mindfulness and balance. New visitors are welcome to attend before becoming a supporting member. A DGZ supporting membership is required to attend regular ongoing classes and additional donation cost, and equipment costs may apply.