Events

Are you new to meditation or new-ish and want help in establishing your practice? Learn the basics of Chan Buddhist meditation in this introductory class. We’ll learn how to find a stable posture, what to do with your body, what to do with your mind, and how to set up a regular practice at home. There will be plenty of time for Q&A and sharing experiences. Each section of the class builds on the previous one, so arriving on time is essential. Doors open at 6:10 PM, and class begins promptly at 6:30 PM. Please plan to arrive before the start of class. Because meditation is easier to learn with personal guidance, we are keeping this class small. Please sign up only if you are committed to attending, so that spaces remain available for those who are able to attend. If your plans change after registering, please cancel your registration or let us know as soon as possible. About the instructor Beth Adelman learned how to meditate almost 20 years ago on a retreat with Larry Rosenberg, founder of the Cambridge Insight Meditation Center. She has continued her study and practice of Chan Buddhism with Simon Child and Rebecca Li at Dharma Drum Retreat Center and in the Chan Dharma Community, where she volunteers. She is also active with Dharma Drum Meditation Center in New York City, where she leads a monthly Walking Meditation and regularly helps facilitate Tea, Chat & Meditation evenings. Cost Suggested donation: $25. All of our events are offered free of charge. If you would like to support us, please consider making a donation.

Can Chan (Chinese Zen) philosophy help you thrive from within and flourish with others? In this talk and Q&A, Dr. Peter Lin will build upon his previous insights (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3) to delve deeper into the art of personal thriving. By drawing on the timeless wisdom of Chan (Chinese Zen) philosophy, we will uncover ways to achieve inner peace, purpose, and resilience. Furthermore, we will explore how this inner fulfillment can extend beyond ourselves, enriching our relationships and fostering deeper connections with those around us. Join us on this journey of balance, mindfulness, and the profound potential for growth within and among us. We are looking forward to have a fun and practical Dharma talk session with you. 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM: Talk followed by Q&A and discussion ​About the teacher Peter Lin, a licensed psychologist, received an M.S. in Biostatistics from Columbia University and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (with an emphasis in Health Psychology) from Yeshiva University (Ferkauf Graduate School & Albert Einstein College of Medicine). His primary clinical training was at Weill Cornell Medical College, and his postdoctoral training was at the HIV Research Center of Columbia University. Peter has great interest in the parallelism between Western psychology and Buddhism. He integrates Chan teachings in his clinical work, and his research interest focuses on the effects of mindfulness meditation. Peter started his Buddhist practice since 1988, and in 2003, he began his Chan practice at Dharma Drum Mountain. Peter is a psychology professor and has a private practice in NYC.

Join us for a relaxed Friday gathering with time to connect, reflect, and meditate together. We’ll begin with tea and open conversation, followed by a period of meditation for those who would like to stay. This is a simple, welcoming space to talk about what is happening in our lives, what troubles us, what delights us, and how practice can support us through it all. No meditation experience is needed, and you’re welcome to participate in whatever way feels comfortable. 6:00 PM: Tea and conversation 7:20 PM: Meditation From the Upaddha Sutra: Ananda said to the Blessed One, “This is half of the holy life, lord: admirable friendship, admirable companionship, admirable camaraderie.” “Don't say that, Ananda. Don't say that. Admirable friendship, admirable companionship, admirable camaraderie is actually the whole of the holy life. When a monk has admirable people as friends, companions, and comrades, he can be expected to develop and pursue the Noble Eightfold Path.” In that spirit, this gathering offers a space for community, reflection, and mutual support. You’re welcome to arrive as you're and stay as long as you like. Free and open to all. About the teacher Chang Yuan Fashi is a meditation teacher and Director of the Dharma Drum Retreat Center. Ordained in 2006, he has spent many years teaching meditation, leading retreats, and supporting practitioners in Taiwan, Canada, and the United States.

Step away from the pace of the city for a morning of sustained meditation. This Half-Day Retreat offers a structured and supportive opportunity for Chan/Zen meditation, rooted in the Dharma Drum lineage of Chan Master Sheng Yen. Rather than a drop-in sitting, this program is held in the spirit of a retreat—a morning of continuous practice including: Sitting meditation Moving/walking meditation Working with a method Dharma talk and Q&A Our visiting teacher, David Slaymaker, will offer guidance and answer questions about the practice. We'll close with an opportunity for sharing and reflection. Offered monthly, this retreat is a great opportunity for those building a regular meditation practice and seeking something more sustained than ordinary daily sitting. It is a natural next step for anyone who has attended our regular meditation sessions or completed our Beginner's Meditation Class. Please note: this program assumes some prior meditation experience. If you’re new to meditation, you can explore our Programs Calendar for introductory classes, guided meditations, and other beginner-friendly offerings. ​​About the teacher David Slaymaker began studying Chan with Master Sheng Yen in 1995. He enjoys sharing the benefits of Buddha Dharma and meditation through talks, classes, workshops, and short retreats. Most of his teaching occurs at DDMBA New Jersey, Global Meditation Center NY (online), Dharma Drum Retreat Center in Pine Bush, NY, and Dharma Drum Meditation Center in Manhattan. He lives with his wife in New Jersey where he is a professor of biology. Arrival & Check-In Doors open at 9:00 AM. Please plan to arrive by 9:15 AM, allowing 15–20 minutes to check in and get settled. The retreat begins promptly at 9:30 AM. Arriving early helps us begin together in a quiet and settled space. Preparing for the Retreat Out of respect for all participants and the teacher, we ask that everyone arrive on time and remain for the full retreat. Late arrivals and early departures can be disruptive to the group’s practice. Please silence your phone and watch to support the quality of your practice and that of everyone in the room. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to sit and move easily. Please refrain from wearing perfumes, colognes, or strongly scented lotions. This retreat is suitable for those with prior meditation experience. If you are new to meditation, we warmly invite you to first join one of our weekly group meditation sessions or our Beginner’s Meditation Class, which offers a full-day introduction to the foundations of Chan practice. What to Bring A water bottle or travel thermos to help us reduce waste. A light jacket or wrap in case the meditation hall is cool. Your personal meditation cushion or bench, if you prefer. Cushions and chairs are available at the center. An open mind. Cost Suggested donation: $25. All of our events are offered free of charge. If you would like to support us, please consider making a donation.

Step away from the pace of the city for a morning of sustained meditation. This Half-Day Retreat offers a structured and supportive opportunity for Chan/Zen meditation, rooted in the Dharma Drum lineage of Chan Master Sheng Yen. Rather than a drop-in sitting, this program is held in the spirit of a retreat—a morning of continuous practice including: Sitting meditation Moving/walking meditation Working with a method Dharma talk and Q&A Our visiting teacher, Peter Lin, will offer guidance and answer questions about the practice. We'll close with an opportunity for sharing and reflection. Offered monthly, this retreat is a great opportunity for those building a regular meditation practice and seeking something more sustained than ordinary daily sitting. It is a natural next step for anyone who has attended our regular meditation sessions or completed our Beginner's Meditation Class. Please note: this program assumes some prior meditation experience. If you’re new to meditation, you can explore our Programs Calendar for introductory classes, guided meditations, and other beginner-friendly offerings. ​​About the teacher Peter Lin, a licensed psychologist, received an M.S. in Biostatistics from Columbia University and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Yeshiva University. His primary clinical training was at Weill Cornell Medical College, and his postdoctoral training was at the HIV Research Center of Columbia University. Peter has great interest in the parallelism between Western psychology and Buddhism. He integrates Chan teachings in his clinical work, and his research interest focuses on the effects of mindfulness meditation. Peter started his Buddhist practice in 1988, and in 2003 began his Chan practice at Dharma Drum Mountain. Peter is a psychology professor and has a private practice in NYC. Arrival & Check-In Doors open at 9:00 AM. Please plan to arrive by 9:15 AM, allowing 15–20 minutes to check in and get settled. The retreat begins promptly at 9:30 AM. Arriving early helps us begin together in a quiet and settled space. Preparing for the Retreat Out of respect for all participants and the teacher, we ask that everyone arrive on time and remain for the full retreat. Late arrivals and early departures can be disruptive to the group’s practice. Please silence your phone and watch to support the quality of your practice and that of everyone in the room. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows you to sit and move easily. Please refrain from wearing perfumes, colognes, or strongly scented lotions. This retreat is suitable for those with prior meditation experience. If you are new to meditation, we warmly invite you to first join one of our weekly group meditation sessions or our Beginner’s Meditation Class, which offers a full-day introduction to the foundations of Chan practice. What to Bring A water bottle or travel thermos to help us reduce waste. A light jacket or wrap in case the meditation hall is cool. Your personal meditation cushion or bench, if you prefer. Cushions and chairs are available at the center. An open mind. Cost Suggested donation: $25. All of our events are offered free of charge. If you would like to support us, please consider making a donation.