Detroit Zen Center

I stayed at the Detroit Zen Center for six months, and it was a truly special experience. The monks were incredibly kind, and living with the residents created a strong sense of community. I felt completely at home there. It’s a very social environment where people from all walks of life come and stay for a few months, and I was fortunate to meet many wonderful individuals—some of whom have become my closest friends. Myungju and Tsunim were especially welcoming. They supported me during my transition from Syria to the United States, offering not only help in the beginning but continued guidance throughout my stay. Myeongju, in particular, went out of her way to help with many challenges I faced—she even made me soup and food when I was sick. The Detroit Zen Center is filled with meaningful memories, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. I recommend this center to anyone seeking comfort, warmth and a sense of community. Ps: this is clearly not a hotel, so don’t expect it to be.

I had the great pleasure of attending a Sunday meditation and enjoying brunch with friends in the Zen Cafe located in Living Zen Organics on the lower level. A fantastic vibe from this historic place. Very much looking forward to stopping by the Detroit Zen Center again the Zen monks are outstanding people.

My affinity for taking moments of quiet, internal reflection and self-prescribed “righteous” tasks led me to begin formal zen practice with the Detroit Zen Center in 2020. My experience being a part of this community serves as a constant reminder that my energy makes a difference no matter where I choose to place it. I value the interactions had in this space because they always carry a pleasant spirit of care and dedication to the welfare of the zen community and practice at-large. No matter how much time passes between visits I am always shown a warm, compassionate welcome upon my return. I find much gratitude in the connection I have with this community and its members.

There is a big warm place in my heart for Detroit Zen Center. I'm not a practicing Buddhist, but I always find peaceful and kind acceptance there. For more than 10 years I have dipped in and out of special events (singing and dancing and blues artists) and Eischens yoga workshops. I dined at the cafe and frequented the store for staples. I've gotten a chance to see, in glimpses, Myungju grow into her work with grace and kindness. I don't know her well, but we practiced yoga together some over the years and you get to see a person's growth when you encounter them that way. I've had brief meditations and interactions with the Abbot who feels down to earth when I'm in his presence and not above his community. It always feels good to be there. I am writing this today because a dear friend of mine has taken a position as a resident caretaker there. She feels so fortunate and grateful to be there. The center and the people there couldn't be more welcoming to her, and supportive as she makes transitions in her life. And they have been welcoming to me when I visit her. Detroit Zen Center is a gem for our community. That's all I want to say. Peace everyone...and kindness.

In a world that seems to celebrate vanity and materialism, the Detroit Zen Center is a much-needed oasis. I first came to the DZC over 17 years ago and I have never failed to be awed by the compassion and selfless dedication of the resident monks. The process of getting over one's 'self' is not always pretty (and is seldom comfortable), but here I found the care and support that I needed to sustain my spiritual practice. It is the soil in which I grow best. I cannot recommend this place more highly if you have an open mind and are serious about your spiritual practice.

From the moment you step foot into the center you will sense how special of a place it is. There is a quiet that exists there that is rarely found in modern life. Awareness is contagious in its halls, presence comes with ease, and the sensory experience is unmatched. I went there first out of curiosity, and I find myself coming back sporadically over the years. As beautiful as the space is, there exists something even more beautiful inside. The people. Walking, living, eating and breathing Zen they are always happy to teach, provide feedback, and encouragement. I have always experienced a warmth and a welcoming that is unparalleled every time I stop by for a visit. If you decide to check it out, I promise that you won’t be disappointed.

I lived at the Detroit Zen Center for two years as a student. I have never been met with more love or compassion. The Abbott and Vice-Abbott wanted nothing more than my well being and helped me heal both physically and spiritually. Zen practice is challenging and incredibly transformative. I cherish my time there and have become more loving and aware. Thank you a thousand times. 🙏

This is an amazing place filled with people who are caring and wanting to help. My wife and I love coming to the Zen Center, where we came for our spiritual journey and are so grateful for it. Coming here always feels like home. The abbot is someone who only wants to help you on your journey and he may even give feedback, who wouldn’t want feedback from someone with such wisdom about spiritual journey. If you can’t handle feedback then maybe you need to look inside and see what is preventing you from accepting. The abbot is the first person to help me get over Covid fears. I can’t say enough positive things about this place and it’s leaders. It isn’t easy but anything worth working for never comes easy. Come here and get help discovering your truth, accept that we all need help and guidance. I’d recommend this place to anyone who wants to further their spiritual journey. Thank you Zen center for everything you do and pushing toward the truths we know.