About Us

• HISTORY AND METHODS
  The Vermont Zen Center is a Buddhist community, founded to provide a warm and inviting place for the study and practice of Zen Buddhism. It was established by Sensei Sunyana Graef in 1988. Learn More…
  
  
• GETTING STARTED
  The most readily available way to get started at the Zen Center is to come for orientation and instruction prior to or just after regularly scheduled zazen. There is no charge. Learn More…
  
  
• 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. Learn More…
  
  
• TEACHER
  Sensei Sunyana Graef is the founder and teacher of the Vermont Zen Center. She began her practice of Zen Buddhism in 1969 as a disciple of Roshi Philip Kapleau. Learn More…
  
  
• SANGHA MEMBERS
  The Vermont Zen Center is run by Sangha members who generously volunteer their time and expertise. Here are some of the people you may meet taking care of the gardens, mowing the lawn, cleaning the temple. Learn More…
  
  
• PILGRIMAGES
  Pilgrimage has been part of Buddhist tradition since the time of the Buddha. Roshi Kapleau spent many months on pilgrimage, traveling throughout Southeast Asia, before settling in Japan to begin his Zen training. Learn More…
  

 

 

 

Entrance to the
Vermont Zen Center