Great Vow Zen Monastery

There is something for everyone here. For those who are long time practitioners, for those who wish to be priests, for those who have no experience at all, for those who would like to come and stay for a week or a month or six. Vegetarian organic with accommodations for vegan and gluten-free with much of the vegetables and fruits grown in the organic farm on the Monastery Grounds. There is a lovely wood with several paths and spots carved out for sacred reflection or ceremony. The teaching is good here and ethical moral container is maintained and keeps it safe. There are retreats for those who have never meditated and retreats for those who have. In addition to the spiritual practice, residents have an enriched life with marimba band, choir, Ceramics, yoga. Retreats during good weather have lots of outdoor meditation. There are many different kinds of meditation here, sound, breath, loving kindness, etc. The priests and teachers are guides for residents and those on retreat.
Mar 25th, 2021

Nov 1st, 2020

A true gem.
Aug 9th, 2020

Oct 16th, 2019

Great Vow is where I got my start with American Zen after returning from South Korea. I have deep gratitude and great respect for Roshis Chozen and Hogen Bays and the residents of GVZM. These teachers are of the highest quality and integrity to be found anywhere. GVZM offers a holistic and full program of Zen Training that includes the emotional realm, rather than bypassing it.
May 15th, 2019