Profile
Welcome to One River Zen Center: Where Stillness Meets Transformation
Discover the Serenity Within, Embrace the Flow of Life
About One River Zen Center
At One River Zen Center, we invite you to embark on a transformative journey through the timeless teachings of Zen Buddhism. Rooted in the Dainin Katagiri lineage of Soto Zen Buddhism through Roshi Diane Martin, our center offers a sacred space where seekers from all walks of life can find inner peace, purpose, and a profound connection to the present moment.
Our Founders: Sensei Michael Brunner and Kyokan Vanessa Roddam
Founded in 2021 by Sensei Michael Brunner and Kyokan Vanessa Roddam, One River Zen Center represents the culmination of their long dedication to Zen practice.
With a combined experience of over three decades in Zen practice, they infuse the teachings with a contemporary approach, making it accessible and relevant to modern seekers seeking solace amidst the complexities of today's world.
Our Philosophy: Embracing Stillness, Awakening Transformation
At One River Zen Center, we believe that the path to self-discovery and transformation begins with the cultivation of stillness. In the ever-rushing currents of life, we provide a sanctuary where individuals can dive deep within themselves, unearthing their true nature.
Through meditation, contemplation, and mindful practices, we encourage our students to embrace the ebb and flow of life with greater awareness, compassion, and resilience. Our teachings emphasize that true understanding arises not only from scholarly knowledge but from the direct experience of living the Zen way.
Offerings: Bridging Virtual and Physical Realms
To cater to a diverse global community of seekers, One River Zen Center offers an array of classes, retreats, meditation sessions, and yoga both online and in-person. We recognize that every individual's journey is unique, and our offerings reflect this understanding, accommodating practitioners of all levels and backgrounds.
Online Offerings: Delve into the teachings of Zen Buddhism from the comfort of your home with our live-streamed meditation sessions, interactive classes, and enlightening talks by experienced teachers & instructors. Join our virtual retreats, where we create a harmonious cyber-sangha, fostering connection beyond borders.
In-Person Gatherings: For those seeking a more immersive experience, our physical center provides a tranquil space where you can participate in meditation, attend workshops, and engage in meaningful conversations with fellow travelers on the path. The temple is in a converted 1890s Victorian on the serene banks of the Illinois River, near scenic Starved Rock State Park. We are just over an hour from Chicago.
Community: A River That Flows Together
One River Zen Center is more than just a place of practice; it is a vibrant community of like-hearted individuals who support each other's growth and understanding. Our sangha is an inclusive, welcoming space, transcending geographical boundaries and fostering genuine connections among seekers.
Join Us on the Journey
Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or taking your first steps on the Zen path, One River Zen Center warmly invites you to discover the richness of your own being. Unite with the lineage of ancient wisdom, carried forward by Sensei Michael Brunner and Kyokan Vanessa Roddam, as we traverse the ever-changing landscapes of life, guided by the timeless wisdom of the practices of mindfulness and meditation.
Join us today, and together, let us find the harmonious confluence where stillness meets transformation, where the river of awakening flows unceasingly within us all.
