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Responding to the World's Unending Suffering
Responding to the World's Unending Suffering
Vow as Continuous, Embodied Meeting
Vow as Continuous, Embodied Meeting
Ancestor Dōgen said, "Ordinary people are pulled by karma. Bodhisattvas are led by vow." All around us, we see the unending flow of suffering—causes and conditions unfolding in cycles of separation and harm. To pay attention, to turn toward the world as it is, is heartbreaking. And yet, these are the exact circumstances in which awakening happens. So, what does it mean to participate in awakening together?
This question is not new. Across generations, Zen ancestors have responded to the suffering of the world through the Bodhisattva Vow. When we chant the vow, we join a lineage committed to embodying compassion as we meet all of life.
What does it mean to join a lineage committed to remaining upright in the midst of violence, hatred, and division? How might we, as modern Bodhisattvas, learn from the example of our predecessors to become clearer expressions of wisdom and compassion in the world?
We invite you to join the Awakening Together Zen Community as we reflect on those who have gone before us and explore what it means to embody the Bodhisattva Vow in our own time. Together, we will practice meeting this world—in all of its suffering and possibility—with wisdom, compassion, and courage.
Thursday-Saturday
12-14 November, 2026
St. Paul, MN & Online
8 AM - 5 PM CST Daily
Schedule to be released in August/September 2026
Our Teacher - Flint Sparks
Our Teacher - Flint Sparks
Flint Sparks (Jigen Kōshin Rōshi) is a Zen teacher and former psychologist dedicated to assisting people in the unending path of growing up and waking up. An experienced therapist and a master teacher, Flint's teachings bridge the fields of traditional Buddhist practice and the psychology of awakening. Flint lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico and in recent years has has extended his work into the contemplative arts, especially photography. In whatever capacity, his vow is to help soften barriers to love and serve as a clear and caring resource on the path of freedom from unnecessary suffering.
Flint is a senior teacher at Appamada in Austin, Texas and is the Guiding Teacher for Open Door Zen Community in Madison, Wisconsin, Just This consortium of Sanghas across the UK, and Awakening Together Zen Community in Minneapolis, MN.
For more information, visit flintsparks.org
Join us in person - at:
Carondelet Center (Space is limited to 35 in-person attendees)
1890 Randolph Ave, St Paul, MN 55105
Or
Join us online (via Zoom).
Cost
Cost
Registration Cost
ATZC is committed to accessibility and economic inclusivity, so please pay what you can based on your circumstances.
The cost for the retreat is:
$360 - In Person
$120 - Online/Virtual
Other - Chosen Amount (Pay what you can)
This can be either a reduced amount or an amount greater than the suggested cost if your situation allows you to pay a higher amount.
Paying a higher amount supports the attendance of others who may not have the financial means to pay the full amount.
Please read the ATZC cancellation policies for information about refunds and cancellations.
Registration Deadlines
Registration Deadlines
In-person registration will close at 5 PM on November 5th or when capacity (35 people) is reached
Virtual registration will close at 5 PM on November 11th
Registration will Open at the End of September
Registration will Open at the End of September
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