The purpose of the Cincinnati Zen Center is to provide a safe and supportive space for the practice of spiritual inquiry. Everyone is welcome. The Sangha coordinates weekly Zen meditation practices, introductory workshops, weekend retreats, intensives, and community outreach.

Founded in 1994, the CZC is a non-profit religious organization affiliated with the Furnace Mountain Zen Center in Kentucky. Other local centers include the Hamilton Zen Center and the Christian Zen Group at Northern Hills United Methodist Church. Membership is not required. In the spirit of the first Zen teacher in America, Sokei-An: All who come are welcome and those who leave are not pursued.

Zen Master Dae Gak, the guiding teacher of the CZC and all centers affiliated with Furnace Mountain, was given Inka in 1986 and Dharma transmission by Zen Master Seung Sahn in 1994. He has been practicing Zen for over 30 years in both the Korean and Japanese traditions.

In February 2008 Mark Davis received Inka from Zen Master Dae Gak and was given the Dharma name Myogetsu Osho. He serves as the CZC's resident teacher and has studied with Zen Master Dae Gak since 1994.

Furnace Mountain Zen Center holds weekend retreats each month and is 40 miles east of Lexington in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. For those new to Zen, it is generally helpful to gain experience during regular practices with the Cincinnati Zen Center before participating in retreats. For more information about Zen Master Dae Gak and the Furnace Mountain Zen Center, see our Contacts page.

The Cincinnati Zen Center is a non-profit religious organization solely supported by donations, event fees, and the generosity of its members. Donations are appreciated, but not necessary for participation. Events for which pre-registration and fees are needed are clearly identified. Contributions from members and visitors allow us to pay rent and offer special events for community outreach. Membership information is available for those who are interested. Please talk with the Abbot, Vice-Abbot or Treasurer. Donations are tax deductible within the IRS rules for charitable contributions.