Zen practice has a long and wonderful history extending back over 2500 years. If you are looking for a place to practice Zazen and enhance Zen training please note that the Atlantic Soto Zen Center in central Halifax, Nova Scotia offers a range of Zen practice opportunities every Sunday morning from 6:00 a.m. until Noon. Everyone is welcome to take part in any one or all parts of our Sunday service. Our Sunday morning services are presently held at the Dalhousie Multifaith Centre, 1321 Edward Street (corner of Edward St. and University Avenue).

If you do not know what Zen practice is, but would like to find out, you might wish to attend our newcomers sessions at 11:00 a.m. each Sunday (see schedule page on this web site). Anyone who wishes to be notified of events which the center is sponsoring can be added to our e mail list upon request (see subscribe page).

There is a coat rack in the foyer and the bathroom is located at the end of the hall just to the left of the kitchen. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering the meditation hall.

Enter the meditation hall quietly so as not to disturb others. As you enter bow and sit on a cushion, bench or chair facing the wall. This Zendo offers a traditional Soto Zen ceremony including Zazen (sitting meditation), Kinhin (walking meditation), Dharma Practice Interview (individual interview with a Zen teacher) and Teisho (formal group Dharma lectures/discussions, incense offering and chanting. Should you feel uncomfortable with any part of this service feel free to not participate by remaining still or stepping aside. The head monk and disciples of the Zen Center are present to offer whatever assistance you require to help you understand what Zen is and encourage you in your Zen practice. Feel free to ask questions or assistance from them during group discussions or individually during individual interview or following announcements. We hope you will visit. Everyone is welcome, come sit Zazen

In Gassho,

Rev. Tesshin James Smith

Shuso