Every Day Zen for Everyone
A tree is only as strong as the roots, our Sangha, our community…
What is Great Tree Sangha? The community of those who support, practice and work together at Great Tree. Sangha activities include mindful work-practice, study, support for Great Tree and social gatherings. There are many ways to join hearts and hands to explore every-day zen at Great Tree!
Upcoming!
Sangha Activities
Dec 08 2012 - : Buddha's Enlightenment - Celebration & Craft Sale -10am -5pm
Dec 08 2012 - : Buddha's Enlightenment Day Commemorates anniversary of the Day of Enlightenment of the Buddha.
Weekly – Monthly Open to all, practice and study
Special Events Annual celebrations, special ceremonies, ordination
Schedule of Work Days 2011-2012
- June 11
- June 25
- August 27
- October 22
- December 31 – Special Temple Cleaning Day – Prepare for the Temple to welcome 2012 from 10am – 4pm; then stay for Ringing of 108 Bells!
- January - July – TBA
Don’t hesitate to ask! There’s plenty to do here and help is always welcome, even outside outside the schedule. Lawns need mowing, gardens tended on a regular basis, trail maintenance. We need cooks for retreats, administrative support and more. Plan to attend? Want to help? Please call 828-645-2085, leave a message and we will get in touch.
About Work -Practice -Service Opportunities throughout the Year
All practice events and residency include an element of mindful work (samu) and service as an integral part of practice in a community setting, usually conducted in silence as much as possible.
It is also a path toward making a real contribution to sustaining Great Tree, creating a bridge to future growth. Great Tree has no paid staff.
You will see work days scheduled from time to time throughout the year. Work days may mean building upkeep and repairs, garden, yard, road work, cleaning and organizing spaces to provide welcoming shared space for everyone, taking care of Great Tree.
If you have experience with leadership in these areas, we welcome help with coordinating projects, scheduling and supervising volunteers.
Volunteers may elect to continue on a specific project on the grounds, the building, kitchen, office work, or mailings throughout the year. It may be as simple as taking care of our house-plants, preparing a meal or arranging flowers for the zendo. Please don’t hesitate to step up and ask!
We have many projects that are ongoing, like the garden or mailings.
At the core of work-practice, the elements that make it part of practice, are:
- Conscious attention and care
- Commitment to service
- Complete accountability
- Compassionate communication
- Clarity of purpose and safety for all
Contact us here – with your interests or questions or to RSVP.
As always, we welcome everyone!