Frogtown zen center celebrates 30 years

To celebrate its 30th anniversary, St. Paul’s Clouds in Water Zen Center is hosting a continuous 30-hour stretch of meditation: a Sit-a-thon, marking one hour for each year of cultivating joy, wisdom, and compassion in the Twin Cities.
From 7 a.m. on Saturday, March 23 to 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 24, Clouds in Water Zen Center’s doors will be wide open. All are invited to join – from neighbors in the Twin Cities to those around the world online via Zoom – whether for a few minutes or a few hours. “Stop by, take a seat in the solace of a candlelit temple, and get your Zen on!” encourage organizers.
“Clouds in Water is an incredibly unique Zen Center,” says executive director Renkyo Heather Fehst. “Our Guiding Teacher, board chair, and executive director (myself) are all female. Many of our teachers and priests are female, non-binary, trans, or queer. We value accessibility and place a priority on offering ways to practice meditation that support each individual’s body. This is an inclusive, restful place to find refuge from the noise, fear, and uncertainty that surrounds us in these times. ALL are welcome!”
Opened in 1994 and formerly located in Lowertown, Clouds in Water is committed to serving the many diverse communities of the Twin Cities. From daily meditation services and classes throughout the week, to a thriving BIPOC sangha, Racial Awareness Groups, Friday Night Zen for younger adults, 12-Step Mindfulness Group, Youth & Family Program, Queer Dharma Mornings, and more – Clouds is passionate about creating and maintaining a vital sangha that celebrates diversity.
Jinzu Minna Jain, a priest-in-training, says, “It’s vital for me, as a queer, trans BIPOC person with disabilities to practice Zen Buddhism in a community with so many people who understand and share my experiences. It feels particularly important now… to have a sanctuary where I’m not asked to ‘leave systemic oppression at the door.’”
Clouds in Water is a vibrant and inclusive congregation in the Soto Zen Buddhist tradition, with a mission to awaken the heart of great wisdom and compassion. Founded in 1994, they regularly offer meditation, classes, and retreats. It is located at 445 Farrington Street in St. Paul, and everywhere via Zoom.