What if I am not a Buddhist and/or have never meditated before?

All are welcome at Clouds in Water. We work hard to be a welcoming, warm space. On Sunday mornings, we offer an intro to meditation from 8:30 - 8:50 before our 9:00 am service. This is a great way to get oriented. We also have a Getting Started in Zen two-hour workshop that happens monthly, plus many classes and opportunities to learn more. We’ll meet you where you’re at!

How accessible is your facility?

We believe all bodies that want to meditate can meditate. We have traditional cushions, gravity chairs, conventional chairs, back jacks, seiza benches, and practitioners are even invited to lay down if they wish. For hearing-impaired folks, we have you covered, as well.

We have handicap parking, a ramp, and no stairs inside. All our bathrooms are gender-neutral and two of the four bathrooms are wheelchair accessible.

Additionally, we don’t use incense at our Sunday Gatherings. Please each out to us with any accessibility needs or questions you may have: info@cloudsinwater.org

Is your programming free?

Yes! No one is turned away for lack of funds.

We encourage donating for your visit at an amount that feels good for you. If you are not able to give at this time, you are still welcome! The most important thing is your presence.

We rely on the generosity of our donors and are almost fully funded through donations. We work on a transparent giving model and most programming also offers sliding scale suggestions, and a pay-what-you-can option.

I’m part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community: am I welcome here?

Yes! Many of our practitioners and priests identify as LGBTQIA2S+. We have a statement on non-harming and pronouns practice that we take very seriously. If you have any concerns or would like to speak with a queer and/or trans member of our sangha before visiting, please email us at info@cloudsinwater.org. Keep an eye on our Queer Community page, as well, for upcoming events.

I’m a BIPOC practitioner. Do you have any programming that is BIPOC-focused?

We have a thriving BIPOC sangha for BIPOC folks who wish to be in community together, as well as BIPOC events yearly. Many of our BIPOC members also attend wider sangha events.

Are you a non-profit?

Yes! We are a religious 501 (c)3 and all donations are tax-deductible. Class fees are non-deductible.

I’m a little intimidated by Zen because of all the forms - bowing and chanting. Is Clouds for me?

You’re in good company. We honor our Sōtō Zen Buddhist lineage that was brought to us by our Japanese ancestors, and we also recognize that we are practicing in the United States in a community with a wide array of backgrounds, experiences and identities. You will never be required to bow, chant, or participate in any way that feels uncomfortable to you.

We offer an intro orientation before our Sunday morning sessions and our greeters are always available to answer questions before and after services. We are a relaxed sangha - come as you are!

Zen practice looks different for everyone, so we have practice groups, volunteer opportunities, and offer support in formal paths of Zen practice, as well. You can also meet with one of our teachers for guidance.

Email info@cloudsinwater.org if you’d like to know more.