Columbia Zen Buddhist Priory

I have been involved with the Columbia Zen Buddhist Priory since the fall of 2008. This temple and its resident teacher, Reverend Master Rokuzan Kroenke, have consistently supported my practice of the Buddhist path. I don't know where I would be had I not begun attending services here, but I am very glad and grateful for it.nnR.M. Rokuzan keeps the wellbeing of his students at heart in all his teachings and does not seek recognition, obedience, or personal gain. He simply offers instruction in the Dharma for those who willingly seek it and bases his instructions on his personal experience as a trainee and monk of the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives. His example of ethical integrity, patience, and trustworthiness are an inspiration to us all to develop these qualities. R.M. Rokuzan leads our Buddhist ceremonies and meditation sessions and afterwards offers teachings informally to the congregation over tea and snacks. Also, he gives private counsel to individuals when asked.nnThe congregation is very small and welcoming, with members and friends from many different walks of life. Together we make voluntary offerings of support to the Priory and our teacher and encourage each other as peers in training. Longer-term members have regular responsibilities to keep the temple clean and ready for meditation and ceremony.nnWhen I was first interested in exploring Buddhism, I knew I was looking for a place and a teacher where meditation and other forms of training were offered out of generosity and goodwill, and NOT as a means to personal accomplishment or profit. In the Columbia area, this was one of few, if not the only organization that seemed to embody that at the time. I have been continually grateful for the resources of leadership and community available at this peaceful and holy place, and I hope all may find this kind of help available wherever they reside.nnVery sincerely,nMarianne Parrish Florian, MA, MTS

From what I understand, this is the only Zen temple in SC. The organization, O.B.C, are earnest monks doing excellent training. There aren't payments to pop-in for a mediation, they operate on donations. If you are curious to learn about Zen or Buddhism, don't pass on this!