Brooklyn Zen Center is a community rooted in Soto Zen practice, teachings, rituals, and ceremonies–held together by mutual care, and open to anyone who walks through our doors. Membership is how you say: “I am part of this. I am helping to hold this.”

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Whether you’re joining for the first time, increasing your monthly level, or renewing after a break—thank you for being here. Already a member? See how to update your level →

Membership at BZC is an act of dana, or generosity, that sustains our sangha in practical and tangible ways. It’s a commitment to the belief that the dharma should be accessible to everyone. Together, our gifts help keep the doors open, the practice alive, and support our teachers, so we may continue to show up for the suffering in our world and in ourselves.

Why We Give This Way

In our tradition, 108 is a sacred number: it represents the totality of existence, cosmic, physical, psychological, spiritual. It is said there are 108 afflictions that cause suffering, each of which our practice invites us to meet with patience and compassion. Dogen, our first Soto Zen ancestor, wrote 108 Gates of Awakening.

As part of our membership drive, we are asking everyone to assess their capacity and offer as much as they can in a monthly contribution in the spirit of dana. To give at the level of $108.00/month, or a fraction or multiple of it, is to root your generosity in that sense of connection that this sacred number represents for us. If $108.00 per month is beyond what you’re able to give, that is okay: please give any amount that feels right to you. We want you here. The amounts aren’t tiers of belonging, but rather an invitation to reflect on what you can genuinely offer.

What Membership Holds

• Your voice in how this community is run — in our finances, Board decisions, and leadership.
• Your seat at the table — in sangha meetings where we shape our strategic plans
• Your belonging in a community actively practicing liberation together.
  
  Membership is recommended of those who:
• Meet regularly with teachers and practice leaders in dokusan (practice discussion).
• Regularly attend sesshins (retreats).
• Serve on ryos (work teams).
  
  Membership is expected of those who:
• Request a formal teacher-student relationship.
• Receive Jukai, the Bodhisattva Precepts.

Details

All membership contributions are tax-deductible.
Membership payments will be charged automatically each month.
To change or cancel your membership level, please follow the instructions displayed in the payment confirmation email you receive each month, or see our step-by-step guide.

Email david@brooklynzen.org with any questions.

Image: Handmade clay Jizo bodhisattvas. Photo by Heidi Brandt / Kitchen Table Collective, 2026