About Us
The Athens Zen Group is a non-denominational sangha of lay practitioners of Zen Buddhism, formed in 1999. We offer opportunities for zazen (seated meditation) and discussion of the Dharma (Buddhist traditions and teachings) in a supportive and encouraging environment to anyone with a sincere desire to practice.
Zen means “meditation.” It is a branch of Buddhism focused on meditation as the primary tool for understanding the true nature of the self and reality. Zen has its roots in China, was transmitted to Japan around the 12th century, and was popularized the United States in the twentieth century. It is now one of the most widespread Buddhist disciplines in America. To learn more about Zen, please visit our resources page for videos and suggested reading.
Through this site, we offer information and ways of connecting with Zen practice in Athens, Georgia.
We welcome everyone regardless of faith or philosophical persuasion, to join us.
Zen Buddhism is not an exclusive religion, but rather a tradition of practice that increases mindfulness and opens the heart to compassion for all beings.
AZG Services
Athens Zen Group is a community of Zen Buddhist practitioners, as well as Buddhists of other lineages and non-Buddhists interested in zazen and in Zen thought and traditions.
Weekly services begin and end with short chants in English. There are three continuous half-hour periods of zazen — silent, seated, unguided meditation — with two five-minute periods of walking meditation between. With regular practice, the mind learns to remain calm without distractions, not generating opinions, ruminations, or daydreams.
Following the formal practice, the zendo is rearranged for about 45 minutes of discussion of Zen writings (from ancient to contemporary) or of zazen, or Zen “off the cushion”, or any number of other topics to help one another in our practice.
Because we are a lay sangha, our dharma talks have a kind of Quaker flavor to them, with members “bowing in” to add to the discussion as they are moved to, and “bowing out” to yield back to the discussion leader. These readings and talks are our primary way of helping each other progress in our fomal practice and discern the Path in our everyday lives.
Occasionally, we may have guest teachers join the service as opportunities arise. Most often, we share excerpts from what we’ve been reading on our own. Sometimes we will work our way through longer material over the course of several non-consecutive weeks. Some days we discuss zazen and trade insights on everything from posture to seating materials to the experience of sitting.
After the dharma talk, assistance packing things away so the next group can use the space is always appreciated.
History of AZG
Athens Zen Group was formed in 1999 by John Kececioglu, a professor at the University of Georgia and former sangha member at the Montreal Zen Center.
In spring of 2000, before leaving Athens to take a new teaching position at another university, John asked AZG sangha member Tom Edwards to take over the leadership role, ensuring that the group would remain active after his departure. From 2013 to 2018 Inge DiBella joined in sharing leadership responsibilities. Tom served as Practice Leader for 19 years before stepping down in 2019. Since Tom’s retirement, AZG’s Planning Committee has assumed the responsibility and authority for directing AZG in support of its mission.
The longevity of AZG is due in large part to a number of important characteristics:
All activities are available to anyone, without qualification, who has a sincere interest in Zen Buddhist practice.
Financial support is voluntary and, while giving is encouraged, there is no financial obligation.
Embracing flexibility and simplicity takes precedence over the financial burdens that often accompany the establishment of a permanent center. Financial needs have remained modest and our focus has remained on practice. Since the establishment of AZG, the sangha has had seven different practice center locations. Have zafu, will travel!
