Q: How Can I Participate in Meditation Groups?

A: Our sitting groups are open to all. Just show up at the time shown on the Meditation Schedule. Feel free to contact the particular group you are attending prior to coming if you have any questions.

Q. Are there meditation classes at Sky Creek Dharma Center?

A. Basic meditation instructions can be provided if you arrive early, please email the group leaders to confirm this. You can also request beginning meditation instruction during the Saturday Open House event, please confirm on our Calendar that this is scheduled or email admin@skycreekdharmacenter.org to confirm.

Q. Can beginners attend other groups at the Center?
A. Newcomers are always welcome to any of the groups. Ask for an orientation; someone will be happy to help you. If you would like individual meditation instructions please email the group leaders listed on the group pages. There is no cost, but donations to help support the center are welcome.

Q. Can I visit the Center to look around? Will someone be there?

A. Saturday at 10-noon is an Open House (please confirm on our calendar) hosted by a center volunteer to welcome anyone to visit and tour our facilities, including the meditation hall, spacious backyard, our expansive entry room with kitchen, seating and extensive reading library. We will be available to discuss meditation, Buddhism, and how we can serve your interests and needs. Other than this open house, our evening and Sunday morning sitting groups, the center is typically closed.

Q. Do I need to be a Buddhist to attend.
A. No, anyone interested in mediation practice is welcome to join our sitting groups. Current group members often lie on a spectrum in terms of whether they consider themselves “Buddhists”, spiritual seekers, or see mindfulness meditation as a secular practice that improves their mental health. We welcome all.

Q. Do I need to sit on the floor? 
A. No, many people sit in chairs during meditation; many are available.

Q. What does it cost to participate in events at Sky Creek Dharma Center?
A. There is no fee to attend weekly meditation groups. However, donations are encouraged and help keep the Center open. Donation can be made in person using cash, or online (using Venmo, Square or PayPal). We encourage–but do not require–people who attend on a regular basis to set up recurring monthly donations to help support the center through Square or PayPal. Other events such as workshops or retreats may require a fee. We occasionally host special events, including meditation events, that are organized and run by outside (possibly for-profit) organizations. If this is the case the fee will be indicated in the event description.

Q. Can I use the Center for my event?
A. We hope that you will consider using Sky Creek Dharma Center for your group meeting, wedding, retreat, or other event. Please read the use guidelines. Call or email admin@skycreekdharmacenter.org to discuss arrangements and fees.

Q. What is the difference between the various types of meditation, such as Zen and Vipassana?
A. All Buddhist practices share a common core of principles and techniques. There are sometimes differences in which aspects are emphasized. You encouraged to investigate this question on your own by attending meditation meetings with groups of each tradition. You can speak with a volunteer at the Saturday Open House to discuss the different groups and their traditions (see Calendar for dates). When you find a practice that is the best fit for your needs you are encouraged to make a commitment to that practice. Ultimately all roads lead to the same destination. To learn more about our meditation groups, click here or see the list under the “Meditation Groups” tab on this website.

Q. Where can I learn more about Buddhism?
A. Come to sittings and events at Sky Creek Dharma Center; many groups read books, listen to dharma talks, and have discussions as part of their normal weekly meetings. We also have an excellent library with books that can be checked-out and many knowledgeable members. The Saturday morning Open House (10am-noon) is also a great time to talk to someone one-on-one.

Q. Is Spiritual Counseling Available at the Center?
A. We do not have ordained monks and nuns at our center, although the Wednesday night Serene Reflection Zen group is actively affiliated with the Shasta Abbey monastery, and they do occasionally sponsor monk or nun visits to the center. Group leaders may agree to meet with you occasionally if you ask them. Regular weekly practitioners will find opportunities to arrange for such a meeting if they desire.