The Practicing Member program was created for those wishing to develop and maintain a relationship with the teachers and sangha at Zen Mountain Monastery and the Zen Center of NYC, but without the formal requirements of a Training Student. Becoming a Practicing Member is a great way to support the Dharma in your daily life, and the work of the Mountains and Rivers Order.

Practicing Members receive invitations to monthly video mondos with one of the MRO teachers. These video mondos mix lecture with discussion and are a wonderful opportunity to get to know the teachers and work with them in a direct but informal way. In addition, Practicing Members receive monthly invitations to live stream video of Sunday morning talks and other events at the Monastery. Practicing Members also receive discounts on retreats at ZMM.

In keeping with the ancient practice of Dana paramita, Practicing Members help support the MRO with sliding scale contributions ranging from $10-$25/ month. Membership dues go directly to our day-to-day operations which include maintaining our buildings and grounds and supporting our teachers and monastics. Dues cycles begin each January but can be prorated based on the date of signup.

Click here to view member dues details and the online donation form.

“Being a practicing member means that I can continue to experience the MRO  as my ‘spiritual home’.
I have been unable to continue as a formal student due to physical issues that preclude my participation in the student requirement of sesshin. As a practicing member, I still feel part of the MRO sangha and can continue to experience our teachers and teachings through our audio visual  mondos and livestreaming. What wonderful gifts!”
—Ted Mousseau, Victoria, BC

Becoming a Practicing Member does not require any formal commitment, or any of the steps required to become a formal student.
Do you have a question about membership or other forms of involvement?   Click here to send us an email.