Next Steps Class July 30th
Next Step is a 1½ hour class for those who have attended Beginners’ Instruction and would like to deepen their understanding of Zendo forms.
Welcome to the Austin Zen Center
Austin Zen Center is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple that offers meditation, dharma talks, ceremonies, classes, workshops, and more. All are warmly invited to participate in person at our north-central Austin location.
Online participation is also offered for many of our programs.
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At AZC, all people of every race, religion, nationality, class, gender, sexual orientation, age, and physical ability are welcome to practice with the community. May all beings realize their true nature.
Requested: Auction Donations
As a part of the 25th anniversary celebration this fall, we will hold a silent auction with proceeds going toward our general donation fund. If you would like to donate something to the auction (e.g. artwork, dharma books, gift basket, gift certificate) please contact admin@austinzencenter.org for more information.
Zenkei-ji: a 25 year journey.
Being part of Women's Circle has enriched my life and broadened my horizons. Pat Yingst always thinks of such good topics for discussion.
I appreciate how the grounds exists as its own ecosystem yet remains open and accessible to whatever/whoever will one day enter and inform it.
My first interaction with the AZC was during a work period where I was able to introduce myself and support the work taking place. The art of just showing up and doing continues to anchor my Zen practice.
Appreciating the life of a growing plant with consideration of celebrating the momentary enjoyment of form and color and the healing qualities of light and breath taking place between plants and people provides a gentle framework for approaching gardening 🌦️
Morning zazen. The best to greet the day is by simply being, bowing, and remembering the words of the ancestors.
During a Dharma Q & A session, someone noted that "bowing is like pouring one's self out, letting go of the self." This perspective has resonated with me deeply; I now visualize the act of bowing as a teapot pouring out the self. Given how frequently we bow at AZC, I appreciate the many opportunities this practice provides to practice letting go.
It’s a small thing, but I love it when the names of women ancestors are chanted in the morning during soji. I came from a religion where women aren’t allowed to be teachers or leaders. To see not just women leaders, but also an establishment of a women’s ancestor lineage which we honor, makes me glad to be a part of the sangha.
My favorite is the Full Moon Ceremony. The combination of formalized ritual, embodied movement, and spirit of surrender and refuge feels powerful and restorative every time. The first time I heard the kokyo chant the refuges, it took my breath away.
Attending retreats with sangha members is like learning a fascinating new language. Instead of the usual conversation, we exchange silence, stance, and gesture. Amazing how well I can express myself and hear others without words.
Upcoming
One Day Sitting August 15th, 2026
Our first one day sitting since the completion of the kitchen project. Click here for more information and to register.
Upcoming Bodhisattva Full Moon Ceremony August 1st
Please join us Saturday August 1st at 10:15am for this monthly ceremony. No experience necessary.
Upcoming Dharma Talk w/ Rev. Shōren Heather Iarusso August 8th
Visiting Teacher Rev. Shōren Heather Iarusso will give the dharma talk on Saturday August 8th. All are welcome.
We acknowledge that we practice on Indigenous land. We acknowledge and pay respects to the Carrizo & Comecrudo, Coahuiltecan, Caddo, Tonkawa, Comanche, Lipan Apache, Alabama-Coushatta, Kickapoo, Tigua Pueblo, and all the American Indian and Indigenous Peoples and communities who have been or have become a part of these lands and territories in Texas.
Affiliate Groups and Gatherings
Beginner’s Instruction
We welcome you to familiarize yourself with the Austin Zen Center and our core practice by attending the Beginner’s Class held on Saturdays at 8am.
Circle of Men
This group is led by Zen practitioners with experience in group facilitation and men’s group participation. Please join us.
Dharma Discussion Group
This peer led book group meets weekly online to promote engaged practice and Dharma discussion.
Sundays in the Garden
All are welcome to join us in the opportunity to engage in (mostly) silent work-practice in the beautiful Austin Zen Center garden.
Join the AZC Chat Room (on Discord)
Austin Zen Center has a live chat server for Sangha members and those interested in AZC!
Sponsored Programs Hosted at AZC
In addition to its programs, the Austin Zen Center has offered their facilities to two independent programs. You can find more information about them here.