Great Tree Zen Temple is the culmination of Rev. Teijo Munnich’s long-time vision of establishing a women’s practice, and residential Buddhist temple.

As a result of efforts In the spring of 2001, Great Tree obtained religious not-for-profit 501(c)(3) status. From 2002 to 2005, the Board of Directors devoted their time to creating our organization structure, raising funds to purchase property, and seeking the best location to sink our roots.

In August of 2005, the property at Lower Flat Creek Road in rural western North Carolina was purchased and Great Tree opened its doors.  Our programs serve are open to all, our sangha is growing.

Our vision is to provide an environment that fosters trust in the tradition of Buddhism as it has been passed down for many years and to create space and dialogue within the practice for exploration of the spirituality of the feminine.