Today's Chicago Zen Buddhist Temple building began in 1915 as a Freemason's temple, so as a structure it has come full circle. It's a temple once again. Purchased in 1992 as a rundown Pentecostal church, it took two years of almost-entirely volunteer labor to become the modern building it is. Read more about the early history.
Now the temple provides:
1. Public services and meditation courses
2. A community for fellowship and support
3. A seminary, monastery and training center
Public services are Sundays at 10 am ($10 suggested donation), plus monthly courses and events. Children's Service is held the first Sunday of each month at 10 am. We observe a longer meditation service Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. We have a full schedule of daily and weekly practice, train students and members, and seasonal meetings for the community.
Summer Intensive Meditation Retreat
Yongmaeng Jongjin
June 28 7 pm - July 3 10 am
Special Events
Buddha's Birthday Religious Service
May 19, 10am
Buddha's Birthday Potluck Lunch
May 19, 12pm
Burning Karma Cabaret (Variety Show)
May 19, 1pm
Lotus Lantern Lighting Service
May 19, 7pm
Precept Meetings:
(Wednesdays 6:30 to 8 pm)
April 3 & 17, May 1 & 22,
June 5 & 19
July 4, 2024