Welcome to Corvallis Zen Circle

We are committed to encouraging and supporting a practice of Buddha’s teachings on wisdom and compassion in our daily lives. We find that sustaining a vibrant and active Zen practice, while engaging in our usual activities of family, community, school and work life, makes each day richer, deeper, and more connected. Because of the difference Zen practice makes in our own lives, we make it available to you. Practicing with others is vital to sustaining and deepening our understanding.

Our sangha, started in 1992, has grown to include people of all ages and backgrounds. Some have been practicing for many years and some are new to practice.

We are guided by Abby Mushin Terris, who was named a Dharma Holder in 2002 by Jan Chozen Bays of the White Plum lineage with whom she has studied for many years. Mushin began her Zen study with Robert Aitken Roshi in 1976. She also practiced for a time with Takabayashi Genki Roshi and Joan Reick, Roshi. She works as a psychotherapist and is the mother of two grown daughters.

Mushin leads classes, full days of practice, short retreats and offers individual dharma guidance (interview) on a regular basis for members.

We are directly affiliated with Great Vow Zen Monastery in Clatskanie, Oregon and enjoy regular visits by their priests in training. Some in our sangha (community) attend longer retreats there.

CZC is developing our own unique expression of everyday Dharma, while also benefitting from the wealth of the ancient teachings of our tradition. We take up its various methods for illuminating our original nature right now, in our own lives.