Decorah Zen Center has new location

Lee Zook and Laura Demuth

Decorah Zen Center was formed after two local residents visited Ryumonji, a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in the rolling hills of Allamakee County.  Forty acres of land were donated in 2000 to establish a monastery as a residential facility to train priests.

After visiting the facility and reading about Buddhism,  Decorah resident Myoko Laura Demuth decided to be trained and ordained. Fellow Decorah resident Lee Zook visited the facility with his family and was intrigued by the practice of Buddhism. He also is ordained. Their teacher, Shoken Winecoff, encouraged them to open a center in Decorah.

The meditation center provides a place for people of different backgrounds to come meditate together. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings at 7:00 they offer a 30-minute zazen period, followed by chanting the Heart Sutra.  Wednesday evenings at 7:00 they offer a 30-minute zazen period, followed by tea.  Once a month on Sunday evenings, the center offers a special event.

Decorah Zen Center is now located at 116 Washington Street, above Day Spring Spa.