Beginner's Mind Zen Center

Want to join us in making a difference? We're raising money to benefit Beginner's Mind Zen Center, and any donation will help make an impact. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to us.

This October, we are celebrating 15 years as a zendo in Northridge, CA! Our doors have been open for 15 years to people of all faiths who want to practice meditation with others, discuss philosophy, and learn about Buddhism with experienced Zen teachers. Our priests, Jane and Peter, have over 100 years in combined experience in the practice of Zen Buddhism and zazen meditation.


More information about Beginner's Mind Zen Center:

You are welcome at Beginner's Mind Zen Center, a neighborhood zendo in Northridge, California. It does not matter whether you are only interested in learning Zen meditation or have practiced it for years. Beginner's Mind offers instruction in zazen, discussion, and daily practice with Jane and Peter Schneider, experienced Zen Priests in the Shunryu Suzuki-roshi lineage of Soto Zen Buddhism.

You can find more information on our website https://www.beginnersmindzencenter.org/ , along with years of recorded dharma talks, our weekly practice schedule, and monthly retreat schedule. Thank you for taking the time to read about us!

Beginner's Mind Zen Center needs to raise funds to perform a long-overdue Mountain Seat Ceremony to officially recognize the leadership of our teachers, Peter and Jane Schneider.   

The cost of the ceremony has overwhelmed our non-profit budget.  Money raised will help fund the special robes which have to be purchased from Japan, as well as cover travel expenses for ceremony leaders to fly to Southern California.  

Since 2004, Beginner's Mind Zen Center has offered opportunities for Zen practice in the San Fernando Valley.  Hundreds of individuals have passed through the BMZC doors to learn about meditation and connect with members of the sangha.  Jane and Peter have also led countless one-day, two-day, and five-day retreats. The impact of BMZC on the SFV community has been significant, and continues to grow!

We are extremely grateful for donations both large and small!!