BECOME A MEMBER

Your financial contribution
is the primary support for the
Houston Zen Center and
its programs and events.

Do you Need to Be a Member to Practice with the Houston Zen Community?

This is an important question, and the answer is No! You do not need to be a Member in order to participate in Houston Zen Center activities. All the meditation times throughout the week are available at no charge. Everyone is welcome to sit in meditation. By becoming a member you become a supporter of the Center. Many members of the Center practice at the Center regularly. Many live far away but, understanding how important Zen practice is, make regular membership contributions to keep the doors open and the practice opportunities available for the wide Houston community.

How is Zen Center supported?

Zen Center is entirely supported by membership dues and class/retreat fees. Special projects are supported by annual fund-raising drives when necessary. Thus, your membership dues keep the doors open for everyone, including seekers, visitors, and friends who are not members.

Why is Membership important?

For the members: It is important for you because (a) the incredible power of generosity strengthens your Zen practice; (b) you know your support provides meditation opportunities for the entire city of Houston; (c) members can use the library and check out books; (d) members receive significant discounts on classes and retreats. Finally, (e) members can receive private instruction from our teachers. During dokusan (with the Abbot) or Practice Discussion (with other Zen Center teachers), members can ask the teacher questions about Zen practice or, if they wish, bring up issues they are facing in their lives. This is one of the foundations of Zen training and can make a significant difference in your practice. 
For the Center: Membership is important for the Center because it provides most of the financial support for the Center's activities. It allows the Center's Board of Directors and Finance Committee to keep the budget balanced based on regular dues from members.

How do I become a Member?

You can simply sign up below. There is a range of dues you can select from. When you sign up, you will receive an email letter welcoming you to Membership in the Houston Zen Center. If you have any questions, please email the membership address, and we will be happy to help.

How much does Membership cost? 

Membership dues are:

Basic Membership: 
$75 per month

Supporting Membership: 
$100 per month Supporting means that if every member offered $100 per month the Center’s expenses would be covered.

Sustaining Circle Membership: 
$200 per month

Radiant Outreach Membership: 
$300 per month

Under 25 or
Income–challenged Membership: 
$35 per month.

You may maintain your Membership for as long or short a time as you like.