Providence Zen Center Is A Hidden Pagoda In Rhode Island That Almost No One Knows About
By Beth Price-Williams|Published January 30, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Life can go by at breakneck speed. Oftentimes, we’re so wrapped up in all that we need to do that we forget to stop, take a break, and recharge. Sometimes it’s even tough to relax at home; just when we get into the groove, the phone rings, or we remember something else that needs done. Carve out some time to find tranquility at this unique destination in Rhode Island.
Founded by Zen Master Seung Sahn, the Providence Zen Center in Rhode Island has been a staple in Cumberland since 1972, welcoming the public to find peace through a variety of meditation programs.
Perhaps the most striking feature of the Zen Center’s campus is the pagoda. The Providence Zen Center is nestled on 50 quiet acres of land, surrounded by towering trees.
Serving as the Head Temple of the Americas for the Kwan Um School of Zen, the Zen Center follows Sahn’s interpretation of Zen Buddhism, which combines Korean and American characteristics.
The Providence Zen Center welcomes the public to a variety of regular events, including retreats, meditation workshops, guest stays, and a variety of workshops.
If you’re not familiar with meditation, start your journey at the Zen Center, which hosts a public dinner every Wednesday evening (as of January 2023). Dinner is followed by a series of activities, including meditation instruction, chanting, and walking meditation.
For an even more in-depth experience, sign up for one of the one-day retreats that run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Kido Chanting Retreats and multi-day retreats are also offered.
Have you been to this hidden destination in Rhode Island? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! Are you ready to uncover even more little-known destinations in Rhode Island? Check out these nine hidden gems in Rhode Island only locals know about.
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