Zen Council Practice

The Native American practice of council, used in a growing number of White Plum sanghas, is an important part of our growth as a Zen community. It takes place on the first Thursday of every month except July and August.

“Participating in council teaches us how to let go of personal expectations and become fully attentive to others.  The practice fosters a compassionate response and provides a continuing source of wisdom.  Compassion arises naturally when we listen with respect and when we express ourselves with an open heart. Wisdom flows from the wholeness of the circle and reveals itself as the “truth of council.” Listening to the voice of council teaches us that the circle’s knowledge is greater than the totality of its members’ individual knowing.”  - Jack Zimmerman and Virginia Coyle, “The Way of Council”.