Rooted in tradition, open to all
Everyday challenges can be stressful and overwhelming, leading us to search for more balance and inner stability. Many of us seek to lead peaceful lives grounded in the present moment, but find it difficult on our own.
At the Zen Center of Syracuse we can discover the life-transforming benefits of a consistent meditation practice, guided by a renowned teacher and a supportive community. Established in 1972 and rooted in the authentic tradition of Rinzai Zen Buddhism, the Zen Center offers a spiritual sanctuary on six acres of serene woodlands and gardens along Onondaga Creek. Through regular meditation, teachings, retreats, and study, we cultivate our intuitive wisdom, so that we can respond to circumstances with greater insight and compassion.
HoenJi – our Temple name
The late Eido Tai Shimano Roshi, who was founding abbot of the Zen Studies Society, named an early gathering place of ours “Hoen Zendo,” Dharma Salt Zendo, in recognition of the area’s nineteenth-century salt industry that gave Syracuse the nickname “Salt City.” At Shinge Roshi’s Dharma Transmission Ceremony in 1998, Eido Roshi changed the character En in Hoen from salt to connection, symbolizing the unbreakable in nen — affinity link — existing between him and Shinge Roshi, between his lineage and the Syracuse sangha. He also added “ji” to the name, in recognition of a temple in the authentic tradition of Zen Buddhism.
Zen practice and community since 1972
The Zen Center of Syracuse is one of the oldest continuously operating Zen Centers in the country, conveying the authentic tradition of Zen Buddhism.
Our History
However innumerable all beings are, I vow to save them ALL
Zen Buddhist practice is rooted in Buddha-Mind, which inherently includes all sentient (and insentient) beings and perceives them as interconnected and fundamentally equal. The basic vows taken by every practitioner, the “Great Vows for All,” form the basis of commitment to a way of life in which every person is welcomed, included, and supported. The Zen Center of Syracuse is committed to eliminating any barriers preventing full participation at the Center, and upholds a diverse community. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is at the heart of Zen practice, and is fundamental to our mission.
Our commitment to environmental sustainability
At the Zen Center of Syracuse, we recognize the profound interconnectedness of all living beings and the delicate balance of the Earth’s ecosystems. We pledge to cultivate awareness and attentiveness in every aspect of our operations. By learning from the land care traditions of our Onondaga neighbors, we commit to actions that reflect our gratitude to Mother Earth.
Board of Trustees
Shinge Roko Sherry Chayat Roshi
Abbot
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Fugan Sam Gordon
President
Sam began practicing meditation in 1995 while a student at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse. As a certified urban planner with over 25 years of experience shaping sustainable and inclusive communities, he sees planning as an extension of his practice, guiding the creation of communities that foster harmony and connection.
Doshin David Schubert
Vice President
David, retired Senior Naturalist, began Zen practice in 1990, was ordained in 1994, and trained in the U.S. and Japan. He is now a Dharma Teacher and head monk at HoenJi.
Reijitsu Paul Batkin
Treasurer
Paul is a Marriage and Family Therapist whose Zen practice since 2000 informs his mindfulness-based approach to healing. He previously led the Zen Center’s children’s program, which his two sons attended.
ChoEn Carol Biesemeyer
Secretary
Carol, retired from IT and business management, now volunteers extensively. She serves on boards for the Zen Center and Habitat Gardening in CNY, advocating for native plants and healthy communities.
Jika-shi Lauren Melnikow
Lauren is a music and senior meditation instructor who began Zen practice in 1997 and became a Dharma Teacher in 2015. She teaches in the Zen Center’s programs and enjoys family life with her husband, three children, and four grandchildren.
Dairin Shawn McGuire
Shawn is a ceramic artist and educator who integrates Zen into his creative practice. He runs Great Wheel Studio in Cazenovia, NY, using art as a way to share presence and embodied awareness with his students and community.
ChoKei Hilary McManus
Hilary is a leadership coach and professor at Le Moyne College with 30 years in education and nearly a decade in leadership development. Her mindfulness-based work connects people with nature through teaching, coaching, and outdoor experiences.
Chedy Hampson
Chedy founded TCGplayer, growing it to 700 employees and helping build Syracuse’s Tech Corridor. Through his nonprofit, South Side Community Growth Foundation, he supports initiatives that foster inclusion and connectedness.
Dr. Ednita M. Wright
Dr. Wright has over 25 years of experience consulting on bias and inclusion for agencies and institutions. She champions environments rooted in care, love, and authentic inclusion.