Becoming a “Formal Student” is yet another opportunity for those who wish to deepen their commitment to study and practice at the Village Zendo. Being a formal student does not imply any financial or attendance commitments above those asked of Members. It is purely a traditional symbolic commitment to study with the Village Zendo and its teachers.
How to Become a Formal Student
- Become a member of the Village Zendo.
- See a Village Zendo teacher in dokusan and ask permission to become a Formal Student.
- Sit Tangaryo (all-day zazen for student initiation). Tangaryo is traditional in Japanese monasteries. At VZ it is a long, quiet day of meditation, a time of individual discernment of one’s motivation for entering deeply into Zen practice.
Practice Recommendations for Formal Students
- Attend at least one full sesshin (week-long meditation retreat) a year.
- Learn to perform the liturgical functions of the Village Zendo.
- Participate in Ango (seasonal training intensive).
- Help to maintain and support the Zendo.
For more detailed guidelines, please see Enkyo Roshi’s recommendations for Formal Students.
If you have questions about becoming a formal student, please send them to
membership@villagezendo.org.