ZCO Autumn Ango
October 4 — December 20, 2026
This Dharma is abundantly present in each human being, but if we do not practice it, it does not manifest itself, and if we do not experience it, it cannot be realized. – Dogen Zenji
Our tradition of Ango comes from a long lineage of ancestors dating back to the time of Shakyamuni Buddha. Every year as the monsoon rains began (during the Summer months in India), mendicants would seek shelter to study and practice meditation in a concentrated period of “gathering the heart-mind” (the meaning of the word Sesshin).
Together with Zen communities all around the world, we continue a modern version of this ancient tradition. Translated as “peaceful dwelling,” Ango is a time of deep engagement with our vow to awaken for the sake of all beings. Intensified training in meditation, contemplation and inquiry clarifies the heart and mind, allowing for deep and sustaining transformation.
At Great Vow Monastery, residents’ daily schedule takes on a tone of a light retreat which includes more zazen, body practice, and increased times of silence. The schedule supports and prepares the heart/mind for the longer sesshin held within the Ango period. Intensive training in meditation, contemplation and inquiry clarifies the heart and mind, allowing for deep and sustaining transformation.
In a community of lay practitioners, it can be complex to navigate work, family, and life’s many demands. Within this, we also recognize the deeply transformative power of periods of more intensive spiritual practice and hold these periods as vital. Because each Sangha member’s life is unique, we invite you to find your own meaningful way to bring the spirit of Ango into your life, both on the cushion and in your daily activities.
The Diamond Sutra
This year, we will be studying the Diamond Sutra in a new translation by Ken McLeod. Ken’s book This Unexpected Jewel includes the Sutra as well as practice guidance and commentary in a slim 62 pages. Ken has generously donated copies to ZCO to distribute to the Sangha; we will make these available at the monastery and temple. The book can also be purchased through bookshop.org, Thriftbooks, or elsewhere.
New: Hearthstone Groups
This Ango, we’re introducing Hearthstones—small groups that will gather throughout the practice period to explore the weekly Ango readings together. Hearthstones are an opportunity to slow down with the teachings, consider how they meet our lived practice, and deepen our relationships with fellow sangha members.
Each group will be hosted by an experienced sangha member and will meet six times over the course of Ango. Participants are invited to choose a Hearthstone and commit to practicing with the same small group throughout the series. Sign up for a Hearthstone group via the link below.
How can I participate?
We begin with Opening Ceremonies, which will take place at all of our regular public programs at Heart of Wisdom temple and at Plum Blossom during the week of October 4. You can also join online from home.
Participants are encouraged to make Ango practice commitments and will have the opportunity to present their commitment form at the altar, as desired. We will supply printed forms.
Great Vow Monastery residents will be entering the cloister of Ango and will hold ceremonies in which they share their Ango vows together.
You’re also encouraged to add your name to our roster of Ango participants, which we will display in the temple and monastery, as a way to further solidify our commitments and support each other.
Sign up for a Hearthstone group
Ango practice commitment ideas and commitment form
If you are practicing on Zoom only or if you can’t come to the temple for an Ango opening ceremony the week of Oct. 4th, you are invited to share your commitments with the Heart of Wisdom Heads of Ango, Enku (mayitcontinue@proton.me) or Senkei (brad.biddle@gmail.com), and we will present them at the altar for you during the ceremonies.
During tumultuous times, we can take refuge in the stability of a practice that’s been passed down for thousands of years through the rise and fall of much violence and hardship. The power of a community engaged in intensive practice and its impact on the world is immeasurable.
Practicing in community, all can take refuge in knowing that even when you can’t practice, you’re supported by the practice of others, and your practice supports everyone.
Let’s keep the flame of the Dharma alight, togethe-e-er!