New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care

OUR FOUNDATION & MISSION

The New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care is a non-profit 501(c)(3) transforming the culture of care. Since its inception in 2007, NYZC has been a trailblazer in pioneering the contemplative approach to care and medicine, developing innovative education, conducting groundbreaking research, and offering spiritual care for those facing suffering in all its many forms, including illness and end-of-life. The Zen Center holds a steadfast dedication to Soto Zen tradition with an expression of this practice through education and service in the community. The integration of Zen practice, transformational education, intimate care, and supportive community sets the Zen Center apart. Today, our programs are internationally recognized and have reached tens of thousands of individuals.

WHAT WE DO

Zen Practice: We offer opportunities for the practice and study of Soto Zen Buddhism for new and advanced practitioners alike through daily online meditation, free introductory courses, bi-annual 90-day online practice periods, retreats, graduate-level classes, and a Certificate in Soto Zen Buddhist Studies. For those wishing to become formal Zen students, we offer a complete path of practice under the guidance of an authorized teacher, as it has been for seekers of the Way since the beginning of Zen.

Education: Recognized as leaders in the field of contemplative care and contemplative medicine we offer a range of educational programs for professional healthcare providers, volunteer caregivers, and those seeking graduate-level education in spiritual care and Soto Zen Buddhism. We are also the only Zen Buddhist-based organization accredited by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education, to offer Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) for those pursuing professional chaplaincy.

Care and Support: We offer care and support to those facing grief, loss, illness, aging, and end-of-life—all of which are sacred journeys. We also offer communities of support and connection for professional and non-professional caregivers coping with the unique and challenges of caring for others.