Join our Practice and Talk Meeting, a space to deepen your spiritual journey — where ancient wisdom meets everyday life in community.
In our Sunday gatherings, we explore the timeless teachings and practices of classical Buddhism that uniquely blend Thien (Zen) Buddhism, in a style similar to Thich Nhat Hanh, with heartfelt Shin Buddhist teachings. Our Practice & Talk Sundays include mindfulness practices, quiet sitting meditation, sacred chants, incense offering, Q & A with an ordained teacher, and so much more —all within a nurturing group setting. Open to the general public, beginners, and veteran practitioners alike.
This Sunday, we will offer an additional practice experience: the Mindfulness Tea Ceremony. This guided visualization meditation will explore spatial and temporal interconnectedness, deepening your awareness of the oneness of reality. To enhance the experience, we will serve caffeine-free lavender tea, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the moment. Following the practice, there will be a reading on mindfulness, a talk, and a Q&A session to further explore its insights and applications.
Open to everyone, including first-timers and seasoned practitioners, we warmly welcome you to explore and grow with us.
WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you give yourself time to arrive in-person before the 9 a.m. meeting.
Our Location: Our location is unequaled in Connecticut, which includes quiet sitting meditation in front of the Shôyôan Teien Zen garden and a traditional Japanese style tatami room.
Parking: Free street parking on Washington Terrace but there is also parking on Mt. Vernon Street which is the side street, next to the center.
Meeting Rules: In order to maintain a harmonious and respectful environment, practice kind speech, be courteous, and abstain from talking about current politics or display or wear political or offensive symbols or imagery. Those unable to follow these rules will be asked to promptly leave.
Suggested Donation: $10 -$20 (cash or check) to help cover costs for our Wesleyan expenses, internet services, our extensive outreach efforts, Meetup, and standard operating costs. Checks are payable to BFF of CT. Thank you in advance for your generous support.
What to Expect? To learn more about our Practice & Talk Meetings, visit our FAQ: Sunday Meetings web page HERE.
Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and practice in a welcoming and caring environment that honors both ancient and contemporary Buddhist teachings. Come with us and experience the power of collective practice and shared wisdom and kindness, and embark on a path of profound personal and spiritual transformation.