Practice on the Path of Service
At Bread Loaf Mountain Zen Community, we live and practice together on the Path of Service—where Zen training is inseparable from real-world care. Our daily life weaves contemplative practice with social action, grounded in the Zen Peacemaker Tenets: Not Knowing, Bearing Witness, and Compassionate Action.
As a resident practitioner, you’ll take part in a working temple life—zazen each day, dharma study, shared meals, and local community with Gather, our “community living room,” and other local projects. We serve directly alongside people facing poverty, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and isolation—meeting the world just as it is, with open hearts and steady hands.
Residency includes:
- Daily meditation, chanting, and temple roles
- One-on-one spiritual guidance with our Guiding Teacher
- Retreats, study sessions, and special events
- Hands-on service with Gather and local partners
- Time for rest, reflection, and outdoor exploration in Vermont’s Green Mountains
A minimum two-month commitment is required, with a discernment period to explore longer-term practice. Residents contribute $350/month (sliding scale available), covering housing, most meals, and all program costs. Flexible arrangements are available for those working part-time locally.
This is a place for wholehearted living—where community becomes a form of awakening.
Interested?
Reach out to Joshin Byrnes at joshin@blmzc.org to learn more and apply.