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Frequently
Asked
Questions
Please call 530-893-8088 if you have questions that are not answered on this page or elsewhere in this website.
Q:
How Can I Participate in Meditation Groups?
A: You don't have to be a member. Just show up at the time shown on the
Calendar. You may want to call the contact number for the particular group
you are attending prior to coming.
Q.
Are there meditation classes at Sky Creek Dharma 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 call the Center at 893-8088 to arrange an appointment.
There is no cost, but donations to help support the center are welcome.
Q.
What does it cost to participate in events at Sky Creek Dharma Center?
A. There is generally no fee for weekly meditation groups. However, donations
are encouraged and help keep the Center open. We encourage--but do not
require--people who attend on a regular basis to make a monthly membership
pledge. Other events such as workshops or retreats may require a fee.
If this is the case the fee will be indicated in the description for the
event in the Calendar.
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 guidelines
under the "booking" tab above. Call 893-8088 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. 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.
Q.
Where can I learn more about Buddhism?
A. Come to events at Sky Creek Dharma Center; we have an excellent library
and many knowledgeable members. Retreats at the Center are led by ordained
monks or nuns or by teachers of many years experience and meditation practice.
You can find brochures and newsletters from other Dharma centers in California
here, giving you the information you need to connect with them and attend
their retreats. Also there is an excellent collection of free articles
on the web; see the list under the "Resources" tab on this website.
Q.
Is Spiritual Counseling Available at the Center?
A. Among the participants in our groups there are quite a few counselors
and medical practitioners; you may meet someone for whom you feel an affinity.
Group leaders may agree to meet with you occasionally if you ask them.
In Zen practice there is a tradition of a weekly meeting, called "Dokusan",
between a student and a Zen teacher. Dedicated practitioners will find
opportunities to arrange for such a meeting if they desire.