Membership

Members of the Vermont Zen Center, Toronto Zen Centre, and the Casa Zen in Costa Rica comprise our Buddhist community, or Sangha. Membership in all our Centers is open to everyone regardless of age, race, national origin, creed, sex, or sexual orientation.

The Vermont Zen Center is a non-profit, religious, tax-exempt corporation maintained solely by contributions of members and friends. While attendance at regular zazen is usually restricted to members, non-members may join on occasion after checking with the Center.

Both members and trial members are welcome to attend private instruction with Sensei when it is offered during sittings.

Anyone may become a member of the Center through following these steps:  

• Attending an Introductory Workshop conducted by Sensei Graef or her Dharma Heir, Sensei Taigen Henderson
  
  
• Completing a four-week trial membership period
  
  
• Attending at least one Zen talk (teisho)
  
  
• Requesting membership and submitting a membership application
  

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Trial Member

Trial Membership gives people a chance to “try out” the Center.To become a Trial Member, fill out a Trial Membership Application and return it to the Center. Trial members may attend all regular functions of the Center.

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Full Member

Members may attend all Center events and become a student of Sensei Graef. Members are given preference for sesshins and receive discounts on retreats, books, incense, etc. Members support the Center by making a financial pledge, which is an expression of gratitude for the gift of the Buddha’s teachings. The suggested minimum donation is $45 per month. Download a Membership Application and Pledge Form. Or use the fillable PDF and submit on-line: Fillable Membership Application/Pledge Form.

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Friend of the Center

This category is for those who do not wish to formally become a member of the Center, but would like to support the Center’s work and have occasional contact with the Sangha. Friends receive all mailings and may attend Sangha events after checking with the Center. Friends of the Center are asked to make a small yearly contribution to the Center. Download a Friend of the Center Application.