June 14 – Sangha Meeting

On June 14 after the Sunday morning sit, we’ll come together for shared stewardship in a Sangha Meeting. All are invited!  Meikame is coordinating an agenda, so please let her know of any topics you’d like us to discuss.

[Edit: Added details below about the space search process on Jun 7.]

Right now, we have a space that, under typical conditions, works well and meets our needs. However, we are aware that it might not work well in the future primarily because of accessibility issues and occupancy limitations due to fire codes. 

As we think about whether we want to look for another space or not, we need to clarify what is important to each one of us individually and what each of us thinks is the best for the sangha. 

The Pre-Meeting prep survey that was shared asks you to reflect on Oxbow Zen and clarify your personal perspective ahead of the sangha meeting next Sunday, June 14.  If you’d like a copy, please email us. Please bring this page with you to the meeting — or email it to Meikame and Soshin if you can’t attend.

June 21 2026 – Study: The Six Perfections – Chapter 6: Wisdom

We’re studying “The Six Perfections: Buddhism and the Cultivation of Character” by Dale Wright. Study will continue on the third Sunday of each month. Note that each chapter, at about 40 pages, is a more substantial amount of reading than prior study texts.

Schedule: June 17 2026: Last chapter, Chapter 6: The Perfection of Wisdom (Prajña paramita).

May 3 – Spring Zazenkai with Fusho Sensei

[Edit: Registration details were added]

Mark your calendars for the 2026 Spring Zazenkai on Sunday May 3, 2026, as usual from about 8 AM until about 4 PM. Bring your own mug.

It will include oryoki lunch, so if you have bowls, please bring them, too.

We’re excited to welcome Fusho Sensei for this day of shared practice.  Fusho is a Zen teacher at the Village Zendo in New York City, as well as an independent filmmaker, journalist and podcast producer based on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.

Zazenkai is an opportunity for an extended period of time for meditation.  The program will include periods of meditation, interviews with Fusho Sensei, service, and vegetarian lunch (Oryoki).  You are welcome to join for part or all of the day.  There is no fee for participating. and. any donation to the Dana bowl at Zazenkai is gratefully accepted.

Please register as soon as possible and no later than Wednesday, April 29th. Email oxbowzensangha@gmail.com with the following information:

Name:
Email:
Phone:
Emergency contact and phone
Participation:  ___ Full Day;         ___Part of the day including lunch;           ___Part of the day NOT including lunch
Do you have any food allergies or preferences – e.g. nut allergies, vegan?
Do you have your own Oryoki set?  ___yes:  ___no

 

March 29 – *Rescheduled*: Zen and Poetry

Exploring Zen Practice through Poetry

[Note: New date is March 29, 1-3 PM.]

Everything changes; everything is connected; pay attention.     

Jane Hirshfield, American Poet — Zen Practice in Seven Words

You are warmly invited to participate in a Workshop exploring Zen practice through Poetry.”  In an environment of meditative inquiry, we’ll be exploring Zen and Poetry in community.

Further information and registration.

RSVP / Register Now

Time and Place: Sun March 29, 2026, 1 – 3 PM, Oxbow Zendo, First Churches, 24 Center Street, Northampton.  Please enter the church building through the door behind the small garden. Somebody will be at this door to direct you to the space. 

Accessibility note: there are two steep flights of stairs to access the Zendo. 

All are welcome!!  No prior experience with Zen or Poetry is needed.  Just bring your open mind!

 

May 17 2026 – Study: The Six Perfections (Ch. 5: Meditation)

We’re studying “The Six Perfections: Buddhism and the Cultivation of Character” by Dale Wright. Study will continue on the third Sunday of each month. Note that each chapter, at about 40 pages, is a more substantial amount of reading than prior study texts.

Schedule: May 17 2026: Chapter 5: The Perfection of Meditation (Dhyāna paramita).  No study meeting in March.

Feb 15 2026 – Study: The Six Perfections (Ch. 4: Energy)

We’re studying “The Six Perfections: Buddhism and the Cultivation of Character” by Dale Wright. Study will continue on the third Sunday of each month. Note that each chapter, at about 40 pages, is a more substantial amount of reading than prior study texts.

Schedule: Feb 15 2026: Chapter 4: The Perfection of Energy (Virya paramita).  No study meeting in December.

[Edit: Change from Jan to Feb, due to snow.]

2025-2026 Holiday Closings

Happy Holiday Season!

Due to the holidays, Oxbow Zen will be closed on the following days:

    • Nov 26, Thursday: Happy Thanksgiving!
    • Dec 25, Thursday: Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
    • Jan 1, Thursday: Happy New Year 2026!

For a quick look you can also check the Calendar.

As of right now, the Sunday December 28 sit is on.  As the date comes closer, please check in or check the calendar to confirm that the plan hasn’t changed.