Northern Light Zen Center

### Context Profile for Northern Light Zen Center

1. **Organization Mission & Cause**:
   - The Northern Light Zen Center is dedicated to providing a space for meditation and Zen practice, fostering a community where individuals can deepen their understanding of Zen Buddhism. Their mission emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, meditation, and personal growth through Zen teachings. They aim to support practitioners of all levels in their journey towards enlightenment and inner peace.

2. **Type of Activities**:
   - The organization offers a variety of activities, including:
     - **Meditation Retreats**: Such as the "August Extended Practice Half-day," which includes walking and sitting meditation, chanting, and interviews for personalized guidance.
     - **Hybrid Events**: Many activities are offered both in-person and via Zoom, making them accessible to a wider audience.
     - **Community Programs**: Regular gatherings and workshops designed to enhance practice and community engagement.

3. **Tone of Voice**:
   - The tone of voice on the website is **friendly**, **inviting**, and **supportive**. It conveys a sense of calm and openness, encouraging individuals to explore Zen practices without pressure. The language is clear and straightforward, promoting accessibility to those new to meditation while still being respectful of deeper Zen traditions.

4. **Emoji Usage**:
   - The website and communications do not prominently feature emojis. The tone remains professional and serene, which aligns with the contemplative nature of Zen practice. If emojis are used in email campaigns, they are likely minimal and used sparingly to maintain the overall tone.

5. **Key Facts**:
   - **Founding Info**: Specific founding details were not provided on the website.
   - **Scale**: The center has hosted multiple events, with at least 8 forms and 5 email campaigns indicating active engagement with the community.
   - **Impact Metrics**: While specific metrics were not detailed, the organization’s focus on community and personal growth suggests a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for practitioners.
   - **Volunteer Info**: Information on volunteer opportunities was not explicitly mentioned on the website.

6. **Writing Guidelines**:
   - **Clarity and Simplicity**: Use clear and straightforward language that is easy to understand.
   - **Encouraging and Supportive**: Write in a way that invites participation and fosters a sense of community.
   - **Respectful of Tradition**: Maintain a tone that honors Zen practices and teachings.
   - **Minimal Use of Emojis**: If used, they should complement the message without overwhelming the text.

This context profile serves as a foundational guide for creating personalized content that resonates with the Northern Light Zen Center's mission and community values.

Full day, Dharma teacher

Full day, KUSZ member

Full day, non-member

Half day, Dharma teacher

Half day, KUSZ member

Half day, non-member

Finances should never be a bar to practice. This category is for those who cannot afford the suggested amounts above. Please register here and donate whatever you can afford.

Registrant

This is a wonderful, every other month, offering of the Northern Light Zen Center for those who want to deepen their practice or who just want to try out practicing an extended period.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The full day retreat at NLZC offers sitting and walking meditation sessions as well as one-on-one kong-an interviews. The interviews are optional but recommended. If we have enough registrants we will also offer a formal vegetarian lunch. All who register will be advised a few days before if we are going to provide lunch. If this is your first retreat with us, please let us know and come at 7 for orientation.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;This is a hybrid retreat and so it will be offered on zoom as well. Half day participation is also available.

Thank you for registering for the retreat. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me. Bill Robitzek, Abbot<a fr-original-style="" href="mailto:northernlightzencenter@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">northernlightzencenter@gmail.com</a>(207) 835-1480

This is a wonderful, every other month, offering of the Northern Light Zen Center for those who want to deepen their practice or who just want to try out practicing an extended period.      The full day retreat at NLZC offers sitting and walking meditation sessions as well as one-on-one kong-an interviews. The interviews are optional but recommended. If we have enough registrants we will also offer a formal vegetarian lunch. All who register will be advised a few days before if we are going to provide lunch. If this is your first retreat with us, please let us know and come at 7 for orientation.     This is a hybrid retreat and so it will be offered on zoom as well. Half day participation is also available.