The following programs are offered on the basis of Dana, a practice of mutual generosity that has been alive since the time of the Buddha.
There is no fee for participating in these programs. We invite our practitioners to offer a donation in the baskets outside the meditation hall.
Ongoing Meditation Practice
All are welcome to join and stay for as much of these sits as you are able. Chairs, kneelers, and cushions are available. Please enter the meditation hall in noble silence.
Morning Sit 6:30-7:30AM Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
We begin at 6:30 am by chanting Homage to the Buddha, the Refuges, and the Precepts. A bell rings at 7, then again at 7:30.
Afternoon Sit 3:00-5:00PM Monday, Wednesday and Friday
This Afternoon Sit includes alternating periods of sitting and walking.
Half- Day Sits (2nd and 4th Sundays of the Month 9AM-12:30PM)
This Half-Day Sit includes 40 minutes of sitting meditation alternating with 20 minutes of walking meditation. If you have any questions, please call Mel Schneider at 505-345-9165 or email him at .
Weekly Dharma Gathering & Reflection
Sunday and Thursday evening from 6:30-8PM
Our Sunday and Thursday night Dharma Gathering & Reflection is AIMC’s most popular offerings. After a short period of announcements, there is a 40-minute sitting meditation, followed by a dharma reflection offered by one of our Spritual Friends Facilitator or a guest speaker.
Groups & Classes
Recovery Dharma
Recovery Dharma is a Buddhist-inspired path to recovery from addiction of all kinds. The group meets every week on Tuesday at 8pm and Saturday at 5pm. The meeting begins with a 20 minute guided meditation, followed by a short reading and an open discussion. All are welcome.
Open Sky Zen Group
The Albuquerque Open Sky Zen Group focuses on practicing and sharing the Dharma together. While there is emphasis on Zen teaching and practices, an integrative approach is taken and thus practice and teachings from other Buddhist traditions are incorporated.
This group meets on Mondays from 6-7:30PM. The evening consists of two sitting periods with a period of walking meditation between them. After the second sitting, a short Dharma talk is given on some aspect of practicing and then there is time for questions and answers. All levels of practitioners are welcome to join. Introductory meditation instructions are given at the beginning of the evening for those who need them.
Meditation Class
Meditation: What, Why and How (Saturday mornings 8-10AM)
We invite you to join us to practice together in a supportive and relaxed environment, which enhances the ability to learn and to concentrate. Whether you are new to meditation, or seeking to recommit to your practice, this class seeks to support you. All are welcome!
Study Groups
The Buddha greatly emphasized the importance of spiritual friendship in supporting our spiritual development. In study groups, practitioners come together to study a particular topic or in support and friendship around common life experiences such as age groups or other identities. The groups offer a beautiful opportunity to practice more deeply together. AIMC study groups are typically led by peer facilitators.
Social
Thursday Dinner (2nd and 4th Thursday from 5-6PM)
We meet at a local restaurant to have dinner and social before the Thursday evening talk. Check the calendar for the dinner location.
Sunday Tea (7:30-8:00PM)
One Sunday of each month, the sangha gathers around tea to welcome new members and to socialize after the Sunday Dharma Reflection. Check the calendar for the Sunday date.
(Please check the calendar to confirm days and times, as there are occasional changes to our set schedule )
Dana (Generosity)
The practice of Dana (generosity) lies at the heart of Buddhism, reflecting a deep understanding of our interconnectedness and freedom from craving. A teacher offers the teachings: those who are present offer support for the teacher’s efforts, and for the sangha which provides opportunities for yogis to learn and practice. In this way, generosity strengthens relationship and reciprocity. We welcome donations at events (in bowls in the front hall), and through the “donate” page on our website.