Introductory Workshop

Introductory Workshops are a practical and authentic introduction to Zen Buddhism, and are the first step toward membership in the Toronto Zen Centre. During the full-day schedule of lectures, question periods, demonstrations, and guided meditation, participants are introduced to the disciplines of Zen, the ultimate aim of which is spiritual awakening. In addition to providing an introduction to Zen, Workshops are an ideal time to see how spiritual training is carried on at the Centre.

The Workshops are conducted by the Abbot, Sensei Taigen Henderson.

Sensei Henderson began practicing at the Toronto Zen Centre since 1970, in its early days. He was formerly a student of Roshi Philip Kapleau at the Rochester Zen Centre, and more recently, a senior disciple of Sensei Sunyana Graef.

The Workshop is scheduled roughly as follows:

MORNING Sensei opens the Workshop with an introductory lecture about the teaching of the Buddha and the main principles of Zen. There is a discussion of Zen meditation, what it is and how it is done. Questions and answers follow. Meditation postures, methods of breathing, and ways of concentrating the mind are taught, followed by two 20-minute rounds of zazen.

AFTERNOON A vegetarian lunch is served at 1 p.m. Following that, exercises helpful to zazen are demonstrated and explained. There are then two more rounds of zazen, after which Sensei speaks on how to relate Zen to one's daily life and how to deal with the different mind-states that may arise during zazen. He also discusses how to find a teacher. A question period follows. At the conclusion of the workshop there are refreshments and a brief meeting for those who would like information about practicing at the Toronto Zen Centre. Various books on Buddhism are offered for sale as are some zazen cushions. Order forms for the purchase of sitting garments are available.

Workshops are open to all interested persons 18 and over (and under 18 if accompanied by a parent or by an older friend and with parental consent). Space is limited, and reservations are accepted on a first come, first served basis. Because anyone reserving a place and not attending may be depriving someone else of a place at the Workshop, the payment is non-refundable unless cancellation is received at least three days prior to the workshop.

Upcoming workshops:

• Saturday, April 5, 2008
• Saturday, May 31, 2008

Please contact the centre for reservations and additional information.

Home | About the Centre | Courses & Special Events | Activities & Practice | Calendar | News & Features | Links | Contact