Introduction to Zen Buddhism

This four-week class is designed for those who are newer to Zen or have practiced in other sanghas and want to get a sense of how Red Cedar Zen looks at the practice.

The class will cover instruction in sitting and walking meditation, information about Buddhism and Zen practice, and integrating meditation practice into daily life. There will be small and large group discussion and meditation and mindfulness exercises outside of class.

The class will be taught by Teachers IkuShun Desiree Webster and Seishu John Wiley.

Schedule: Four Mondays from January 11 to February 1 from 6:30-8:00pm. We ask participants to make a commitment to attend at least 3 of the 4 sessions. 

Location: This class is available in person or online via Zoom.

Class Instructors:

IkuShun Desiree Webster has been a part of our Red Cedar community for many years. Previous to her practice in the Soto Zen tradition, Ikushun Desiree practiced in the Plum Village tradition. She was Shuso for the winter practice period 2023, and lead the sangha on a journey through The Heart of the Buddha’s Teachings, bringing with her the flavor of Thich Nhat Hanh’s understanding. Her formal teacher is Ryushin Andrea Thach from the Berkeley Zen Center.

Seishu John Wiley is a lay entrusted teacher of Red Cedar Zen Community. He has practiced with Red Cedar since 1995, and was shusho (head monk) during the 2006 practice period.  He received lay entrustment from his teacher, Zoketsu Norman Fischer, in 2010