Business Details
Soto Zen Meditation in Chicago, IL
We are a diverse group of Chicagoans dedicated to practicing the Zen way of awakening together while providing a welcoming space for others to deepen their meditation practice. Rooted in the Soto Zen Buddhist tradition, our lineage traces back 2,500 years through revered teachers like Eihei Dogen and modern guides including Dainin Katagiri. Our practice centers on quiet seated meditation (Zazen) as the foundation for awakening, while extending mindfulness into all daily activities. Led by teacher Myoshi Roger Thomson, who received dharma transmission in 2013, we maintain strong connections with affiliated centers across the Midwest. We offer both in-person sessions at our West Town location and virtual participation through Zoom, ensuring accessibility for all seekers.Our community emphasizes generosity through Dana Paramita, inviting contributions that sustain our practice space rather than charging for attendance. With a commitment to anti-racism and inclusivity, we welcome practitioners of all backgrounds to join our meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and seasonal retreats. Our Sangha (community) embodies the Zen principle of interconnectedness, recognizing that our individual awakening is inseparable from collective well-being. Through regular practice and open dialogue, we strive to manifest awakened mind and heart in everyday life.
Services
Meditation Sessions
Dharma Talks
Online Practice
Affiliated Centers
Donation Support
Highlights and features
- We offer authentic Soto Zen practice rooted in a 2500-year lineage
- Our teacher holds formal dharma transmission from established Zen masters
- We maintain strong connections with regional Zen meditation centers
- We practice inclusive accessibility with donation-based participation
- Our community actively engages in anti-racism and social equity work
Associations and certifications
- Soto Zen Buddhist Association
- Sotoshu Shumucho
Services
Meditation Sessions
Our core offering includes regular seated meditation sessions following Soto Zen tradition. These gatherings feature guided Zazen practice, walking meditation, and communal study of Buddhist texts. Sessions welcome both beginners and experienced practitioners seeking structured spiritual development in a supportive community environment.
Dharma Talks
Weekly lectures and discussions on Zen philosophy delivered by our teacher and senior practitioners. These talks explore classical Buddhist texts, contemporary applications of Zen principles, and practical guidance for integrating mindfulness into daily life through the lens of our lineage's teachings.
Online Practice
Live-streamed meditation sessions and teachings accessible through Zoom platform. This service maintains our community connection for remote participants while preserving traditional Zen practice forms. Includes access to recorded Dharma talks and virtual retreat opportunities throughout the year.
Affiliated Centers
Connection to a network of Midwest-based Zen practice locations including monasteries and meditation centers. Provides opportunities for extended retreats, specialized training, and deeper engagement with our lineage's teachings across multiple geographic locations while maintaining consistent practice standards.
Donation Support
Financial contribution system supporting our non-profit operations through voluntary donations. Enables accessibility to all programs while sustaining our physical space, teacher training, and community outreach initiatives. Accepts payments through multiple digital platforms and traditional check submissions.
People
Myoshi Roger Thomson
Teacher
Soto Zen teacher with dharma transmission since 2013, trained at Ryumonji Zen Monastery and Tassajara Zen Mountain Monastery. Registered with both American and Japanese Soto Zen organizations, guiding Chicago practice since 2011.
Questions
What should I expect at my first meditation session?
Newcomers receive basic Zazen instruction before joining our silent sitting practice. Sessions include walking meditation, group chanting, and a Dharma talk. No prior experience required.
Are there any fees for participation?
We do not charge set fees. Instead, we accept voluntary donations (Dana) to support our operations while keeping practice accessible to all.
Do you offer online meditation options?
Yes, we provide Zoom access for all regular sessions and maintain a SoundCloud library of recorded Dharma talks for remote practitioners.
What are your community's core values?
We emphasize non-discrimination, environmental stewardship, and social equity while maintaining traditional Zen practice forms and lineage continuity.
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