Zen Meditation Sunday Evenings in Rockville

Join us for a quiet, grounded Sunday evening practice in community.

We typically gather with 6–12 practitioners for seated and walking meditation, along with a short Dharma talk or practice instruction offered by one of our teachers or senior students. Our guiding teacher is authorized in the Soto Zen lineage and has practiced Zen for 25 years.

Schedule

• Please arrive by 6:45 pm to settle in
• First bell rings at 7 pm sharp
  (If you arrive late, please wait in the hallway until the next bell. Someone will greet you)
• 25 minutes of silent sitting
• 5 minutes of walking meditation
• 25 minutes of sitting with Dharma talk
• 5 minutes of walking meditation
• 15 minutes of closing meditation or chanting
• We close with tea and informal conversation

On first Sundays, we offer a relaxed meet-and-greet with tea, discussion, and light snacks. Newcomers are especially encouraged to attend—teachers are available for orientation and basic instruction. This Sunday January 4, we are having a sharing with prayer flags in the Tibetan tradition, sending hope in the wind. Bring a small "flag" with you on a napkin or cloth, with wishes of hope and peace for 2026.

Experience
No prior experience is necessary. You may sit on a cushion or a chair. Whether you are new to meditation or have an established practice, you are welcome here. It is offered free of charge.

Location
Our Zendo is located in the back of Rockville United Church:
355 Linthicum St, Rockville, MD

After parking in front, please do not enter through the main church doors. Walk slightly downhill, then take the small rightward path up to the rear entrance. Look for posted signs. We meet on the lower level, past the double wooden doors.

Guiding map:
https://postimg.cc/nMWsMnQy

Who we are
Joyful Mind Zen Community offers Zen practice, teaching, sitting, and walking meditation on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays in our Rockville Zendo.

If you have questions or are attending for the first time, feel free to reach out.