Finding True Refuge
Where do we find refuge in a world on fire? How does Buddhist practice support us in living together well?
For thousands of years, Buddhist communities around the globe have gathered on the darkest and brightest nights of the lunar cycle to reflect on our actions, consider our intentions and recommit to a life of integrity, compassion and awakening. In Zen, we carry on this ancient tradition through the monthly Full Moon Ceremony, Ryaku Fusatsu.
During this Intensive, we will use the framework of the Full Moon Ceremony to walk with all beings through the heart of our wide, aching world. Together we will explore themes illuminated in the Ceremony, including:
- Finding True Refuge
- Untangling Karma
- Honoring Our Ancestors
- Bodhisattva Vows
- Embodying the Precepts
The Intensive is open to both online and in-person participants. The schedule will include weekly classes, Dharma Talks and “tea” with the teacher. There will be a day-long sesshin to open and a three-day sesshin to close. All are welcome to join in-person or on Zoom for the full Intensive schedule, or for the class or sesshins only.
Participants may engage as either students-in-residence (application separate), or online/hybrid, where you can participate online or by visiting City Center. The one-day sit and the three-day sesshin are offered both online and on-site at City Center. The online versions are included as part of the online/hybrid intensive. If you would like to sit on-site at City Center, you will need to register separately.
Here is what this program includes:
- Four classes: 5/20, 5/27, 6/3, 6/10, all at 7:30–9 pm PT
- Dharma talks on the intensive topic each Wednesday evening at 7:45 pm PT and each Saturday morning at 10:15 am PT
- An online one-day sitting on May 24 and a three-day online sitting June 12-14
- Online curriculum portal, weekly small group discussions, and morning and evening daily meditation
You're welcome to visit City Center for the classes, Dharma talks, and daily zazen.
All are welcome to join this dynamic exploration of practice and study.
This page is to register for online/hybrid participation. To apply for residency, please see this page.
Please review the Health and Safety Requirements.
- General: $615
- Current SFZC Members: $553.50
- Sliding Scale 1: $369
- Sliding Scale 1: $153.75
Please register by May 16, 2025.
Or call 415-354-0360.