Short-Term Residence

Residencies are available for periods as short as a week. Short-term residents may train full time at the Temple or do a mix of their own work and work for the Temple. Those who choose to train full time at the Temple follow the daily schedule, doing sangha work practice during the morning and engaging in study of the Eight Gates in the afternoon.

Long-Term Residence

Long-term residency is available for periods of up to a year, beginning with a one-month trial period, and is designed for those who want to dedicate themselves to intensive Zen training and Buddhist study while maintaining work or school responsibilities. The daily schedule begins with morning zazen and a short liturgical service, followed by a caretaking period (basic Temple chores). Residents are welcome and encouraged to join this schedule as circumstances permit before beginning their usual work, which can be either off-site or remote (i.e., from their living space at the Temple). The daily schedule concludes with evening zazen.

Residents receive training in liturgical service positions and are assigned a weekly housekeeping chore. Residents are also welcome to participate in our regular zazen intensives and other retreats. Artists are welcome; the Temple is an ideal space for writers and poets in particular.

Hosan

Each week, from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday afternoon, all residents have hosan, a period when the daily training schedule is lifted. This time allows residents to rest and take care of their personal affairs. Residents who work Monday through Friday may choose to be off schedule on most Saturdays. All residents are required to participate in the Sunday morning program.

Fees and Scholarships

The fee for residency is $250 per week, or $1,000 per month. This includes all training fees, meals, housing, retreats, workshops and courses at the Temple. Due to the small size of the Temple’s resident community, our ability to offer financial assistance is limited. Those who would like to enter residency but are financially unable to meet the full monthly fee may apply for a partial scholarship. These are awarded based on an applicant’s financial need, their work skills, and the needs of the Temple.

Application Process

If you have questions about residential training at Zen Center of New York City or if you would like to apply for a period of residency, please contact the Temple training office. We will send you an application, answer any questions you have, and if you choose to apply, schedule an interview.