2008 Retreat (Sesshin and Zazenkai) Schedule


The Atlanta Soto Zen Center offers a regular schedule of sesshin and zazenkai (longer and shorter zazen retreats).

Sesshin, literally "to unify the mind", is an intensive meditation retreat offered periodically to deepen our practice.  Characterized by deep introspection and silence, sesshin is a wonderful opportunity to receive personal guidance in private interviews with the teachers, to draw from the strength of the sangha practicing together, and to experience the deep stillness that lies within each one of us.  All are encouraged to attend sesshin whenever possible.

Weekend zazenkai is offered every month at the in-town center, starting Friday evening and ending Sunday afternoon on the first Sunday of the month. Longer sesshin retreats are offered periodically both at the in-town center and at nearby retreat locations with overnight accommodations and the ability to completely immerse your self in the sesshin practice.

Our sesshin and zazenkai follow three basic types of schedule (click title for details):


Sesshin Dates (2008)

These longer sesshin retreats are recommended to anyone who is sincerely interested in experiencing the real heart of Zen practice. The retreats begin with an orientation to introduce participants to the spirit and schedule of sesshin and then once sesshin begins, we immerse ourselves in the rigorous practice of self-awakening.

Dates
Theme and Format
Coordinators and Registration Information
April 1 - 6

"Hanamatsuri - Festival of Flowers"
Sangha Schedule

Taiun Michael Elliston, Abbot ASZC
information and registration

July 29 -
August 3

Dharma Schedule

Taiun Michael Elliston, Abbot ASZC
information and registration

December 1 – 8
(Rohatsu)

Buddha Schedule

Taiun Michael Elliston, Abbot
information and registration



Weekend Zazenkai Dates (2008)

Our regular monthly weekend zazenkai begin each month on the Friday evening prior to the first Sunday of the month. For more information about specific dates, please view details or send email by clicking the links below or speak with the sesshin organizer in person at the center.

Dates
Theme and Format
Coordinators and Registration Information

January 4 - 6

"Master Dogen's Liturgy"
Sangha Schedule

Taiun Michael Elliston, Abbot
information and registration

February 1 - 3

Matsuoka Roshi and Master Dogen:
Sameness and Difference in Their
Teaching and Teachings
Dharma Schedule

Taiun Michael Elliston, Abbot
information and registration

February 29 -
March 2

"Sit Down and Shut Up:
Buddha Schedule

Guest Teacher: Brad Warner
information and registration

April

sesshin (above)


May 2- 4

Dharma Schedule

Shiho Gareth Young
information and registration

May 30 -
June 2

Buddha Schedule

information and registration

July 4 - 6

Sangha Schedule

information and registration

August

sesshin (above)

September 5 - 7

Buddha Schedule

information and registration

October 3 - 5

Dharma Schedule

information and registration

October 31 -
November 2

Sangha Schedule

information and registration

December

sesshin (above)



Special Guest Teachers’ Sesshins

At times we are privileged to host sesshins with guest teachers at our Zendo. For more information about specific dates, please view details or send email by clicking the links below or speak with the sesshin organizer in person at the center.

Dates
Guest
Coordinators and Registration Information
February 29 -
March 2
Brad Warner
information and registration


Overnight Accommodations

Overnight accommodations are available on a first-come first-served basis, and require pre-payment at least one week in advance to guarantee space (others may be accepted if space is available). For information about accommodations, please email innkeeper@aszc.org.


Cost

Suggested donations go to support the overhead of the Zen Center and to fund necessary investments in future program and infrastructure. While these are collected on the honor system, they are not considered optional. There are limited discount and sponsorship opportunities available for staff, full time students or those in need of financial assistance. Please inquire at time of registration. The suggested donation covers the cost of meals and overnight accommodations as specified.

The cost schedule for sesshin and retreat held at our facilities at the ASZC, 1167 C/D Zonolite Pl., Atlanta are:

Duration
Donation
Nights
Meals

Zazenkai (Friday-Sunday)

$75

$15

Included

Sesshin (5-8 days)

$200

$15

Included

Single day

$50

None

$5

The cost for retreats held offsite will be slightly higher and listed separately with the retreat information.

Additional dana (the perfection of giving) goes to the support of teachers and staff.


Cancellation Policy

Extended retreats may be cancelled or moved due to insufficient registrations. All registrants will be notified at least one week prior to the start of the retreat. Weekend sesshins will be cancelled only due to extreme circumstances.