Providence Zen Center, Buddhist meditation center in Cumberland, Rhode Island, US
Providence Zen Center is a Buddhist meditation facility situated on 50 acres with meditation halls, residential buildings, gardens, and a 65-foot pagoda marking the entrance. The structures and grounds are organized to support meditation and contemplative practice.
Zen Master Seung Sahn founded this center in 1972 on Doyle Avenue, relocating to Cumberland in 1979. This growth reflected the expanding presence of Korean Zen teachings across North America.
This serves as the main temple of the Kwan Um School of Zen in North America, blending Korean Buddhist teachings with American practice styles. Visitors encounter a mix of Eastern tradition adapted to a Western setting.
Beginners can join Wednesday introduction sessions that include dinner, instruction, and chanting, open to anyone interested. Visitors should prepare for basic activities and check requirements before arriving.
The Diamond Hill Zen Monastery on the grounds offers multi-week retreats structured according to Korean Buddhist tradition. The three-month winter and four-week summer programs attract practitioners from outside the region.
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