Actively participate in the Sangha
In Zen Buddhist, working together is an integral part of the practice. The work is a way to bring this practice out of the meditation hall and into the world, and is one of the most important ways in which practitioners can come together and begin to know each other intimately, forging the Sangha (community), which is one of the Three Jewels Buddhists.
Volunteering is an opportunity to experience working wholeheartedly in a practice environment, dedicating your time and energy to the Sangha.
Important: to become a volunteer you must have participated in at least one retreat at Sanboji Monastery.
A Zen motto is “work hard, accomplish nothing . ”
This may seem strange, but it can also be a relief to consider, especially since for most of their lives, people are actually encouraged to work very hard and accomplish as much as possible.
When people stop viewing work as “trying to get something,” even for a moment, pathways open for other experiences to emerge.
The tasks
Below are some of the opportunities to volunteer at SanboJi Temple of the Three Jewels while learning and sharing skills:
• Kitchen
• Cleaning of internal and external environments and care of the vegetable garden
• Maintenance works
• Italian/English interpreter
Where and when
When: Volunteering is required during retreats, seminars, and events offered by the monastery. Room and board will be provided on site.
Where: SanboJi Monastery in Berceto – Località Pradaiolo, 37 – 43040 Pagazzano (PR)
To apply for volunteer work you must be an adult.
