
Zen Buddhist Temple-Toronto is the first temple founded by the Venerable Samu Sunim. After moving to Toronto in 1971 Samu Sunim completed a three year solitary retreat before beginning his teaching career. He reactivated the Zen Lotus Society from a basement apartment in Toronto serving the Korean-Canadian community and gave meditation instruction during the week. In 1979 Ven. Samu Sunim and a small group of his students moved the Zen Lotus Society into a former flophouse at 46 Gwynn Avenue in Parkdale. The building was extensively renovated through the effort and manpower of those first disciples and the temple was officially incorporated in 1980.
The temple offers meditation services and meditation instruction for urbanites leading a hectic life. It serves as a spiritual community for friendship and support as well as a monastery for cultivation and training. Every Sunday we offer public services at 10 am and 4 pm ($5 suggested donation). We have daily, weekly practice schedules for members. Children's Service takes place last Sunday each month (10:30 to 11:30 am). We also offer introductory meditation courses and retreats throughout the year. Rev. Sanha is the current Temple Director and resident teacher.
Temple Residency is available for people who want to spend some time (one week minimum) living in the temple to cultivate their practice. The residents participate in temple programs in the mornings and/or evenings while maintaining their job or studies. If you wish to be a temple guest for few days, book your stay via Airbnb.
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Public Services
CLOSED to PUBLIC
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Members' Practice
For Members & Residents
Mon.–Fri. 6 am & 6:30 pm
Sunday at 10 am
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If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact the temple.
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Temple Newsletter
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Temple Tour

One-day Retreats
Saturday 9 am to 5 pm
February 6
March 15
April 22
May 25
Yongmaeng Jeongjin
April 6-9
October 6-8
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starting
January 12, 2021
(Four Tuesdays 6:30 to 8:30 pm)
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Beginner's Zen Retreat
Fri. 7 pm to Sat. noon
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