New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care

How did the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care begin?

In 2007, Zen Buddhist monks Koshin Paley Ellison and Robert Chodo Campbell established the NYZCCC, in the heart of New York City. The Center offers training in contemplative care so that people can learn to care in mindful and compassionate ways in hospitals, hospices, and homes, as well as, their everyday relationships. Recognized as true pioneers and leaders in the field of Contemplative Care, the NYZCCC is creatively transforming spiritual care in the United States.

What are some of the programs being offered?

NYZCCC offers a year-long Foundations in Contemplative Care Training Program, integrating Buddhist contemplative practices with professional training. The Center partners with the University of Arizona Medical School’s, Center for Integrative Medicine Fellowship Training program to provide curriculum and instruction around contemplative care practices for the country’s leading integrative physicians and nurse practitioners. NYZCCC also organizes the national Buddhist Contemplative Care Symposium on Palliative and End of Life Care, bringing together thought leaders who are clinicians across the country.

What are some of the community events offered?

The Center offers a Contemplative Approaches to Bereavement group for those facing the loss of loved ones. The Caring for the Caregiver group supports those caring for family members and friends. The Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) classes give participants the skills they need to bring mindfulness into their daily lives. Karuna Sangha provides a safe place for the LGBTQUIAS community to practice meditation together. Serenity Sangha is a sober meditation community in fellowship with 12 Step and Buddhist traditions. NYZCCC also provides bedside visits to anyone in the New York City metropolitan area that is facing illness or in the dying process.

Meditation offerings.

The heart of the NYZCCC's work is based on the practice of meditation, contemplation, and Zen precepts. Meditation is practiced each day in support of the community and to support one another. All are welcome, from the curious beginner to those who have been meditating for decades. The community is made up of Jewish, Catholic, Episcopal, Tibetan and Zen Buddhists and those who don’t identify with any particular tradition. Each month the Center offers half-day silent retreats and twice a year offer residential retreats.

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