We would like to invite you to consider membership in the Dharma Rain Zen Center. Membership represents commitment to the Sangha and the Buddhist training that the Sangha embodies. Membership is required to vote for the members of Board of Directors and on any other issues that come up for a vote. Some classes and events are only open to members. There are five categories of membership, based on amount contributed each year, plus Full Member.

A Benefactor is a member pledging $100 per month or more. Privileges are the same as for Supporting Members and Sustaining Members. Benefactors are investing in the long term development of Dharma Rain Zen Center. This development will improve on the resources we already have, and ensure their continued availability to the growing number of people seeking the Dharma in the greater Portland area.

A Sustaining Member pledges $75-$99 per month. Privileges are the same as for Supporting Members, with the extra money given helping the Center keep the fees for retreats and other events low, and to continue providing classes and workshops free of charge to the general community.

A Supporting Member pledges $50-$74 per month. This is the basic level of Center membership, in that contributions at this level are enough to keep the facilities open and to help support the priests and other essential staff. Privileges include receiving Still Point, members' access to the library, and more substantial discounts on fee events and some bookshop items.

A Center Friend pledges $30-$49 per month. Pledges at this level help cover our pasic expenses such as mortgage, utilities, mailing costs and general supplies. Privileges include receiving Still Point, members' access to the library, and discounts on fee events and some bookshop items.

An Associate Member pledges $10-$29 per month or a lump sum of $100 for one year. This category is primarily for students and others with limited income, but is also for those who may be less involved, yet wish to make a contribution to the Center. Privileges include receiving the Center newsletter, Still Point, and members' access to the library.


A Full Member (formerly called a Senior Member):

Some Zen Center offices and events are restricted to Full Members.

Lay Ordination is a ceremony in which one formally takes the Precepts and becomes a Buddhist.

Lay ordination is not required for any of the associate, basic, supporting, etc. memberships in the Zen Center, nor is membership required to receive the Precepts and become a Buddhist. The Center holds the Precept ceremony once each year. If you are interested in becoming a Buddhist, contact one of the priests. (503-239-4846 or e-mail at Staff@Dharma-Rain.Org )

If you would like to become a member of the Zen Center, click on this link to get a copy of the membership form.

 

 

   
 

 

revised 20 June 2001


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