ORIENTATION
New to IMCR
We are one of eight groups who study and practice at Ekoji Buddhist Sangha of Richmond. Each group is founded in Buddhist principles and comes from a different tradition and lineage. We practice Vipassana (also called Insight Meditation). We come together in person and via Zoom on Tuesday and Friday evenings to meditate and study the Buddhist path. We also organize special events like Saturday morning sits, introductory courses and retreats.
Please arrive 5-10 minutes early to our events to help all of us get comfortable and settled before our sit begins.
Guiding Teacher
Marjolein Janssen, our Guiding Teacher, visits us every other Tuesday and a few times a month on Fridays (when her schedule allows). During her visits, she offers guidance, support, and education on meditation and the Buddhist path. This includes Dharma teachings, instruction on meditation, and practice discussions.
On the days Marjolein is not present the evenings are peer led.
Donations (Dana)
All weekly meditation sits and most other events are offered on a donation only basis. We rely on, and are very grateful for the ongoing generosity of all participants who help support Ekoji Buddhist Sangha, IMCR, and our teacher at IMCR.
Check our Donation page for more information.
Inclusivity
The Ekoji Buddhist Sangha of Richmond recognizes that suffering is part of the human condition. However, suffering can be made worse by intentional or unintentional bias towards people of diverse backgrounds. These include race or ethnicity, country of origin, religion, age, ability, socioeconomic status, political stance, gender identity and sexual orientation.
We welcome all who come to learn and practice in community, and will work towards supporting our common practice while embracing our different experiences.
Personal Orientation
You’re welcome to schedule an (optional) orientation before you join an in-person meditation sit.
Email us at info@imcrva.org to schedule an appointment with one of our volunteers either in-person at Ekoji, or over the phone.
Accessibility
At the rear of the building, there’s a small parking lot accessible via the alley, with priority given to individuals with disabilities. Additionally, a ramp is provided in the same area, facilitating easier access to the building for those using wheelchairs or experiencing disabilities.
Email us at info@imcrva.org if you have any questions before your visit.
COVID 19 and Our Health and Well-Being
Our precautions for in person meetings:
- Masks are optional, but we monitor attendance and COVID protocols week to week, we might ask you to mask.
- In the recent past we required vaccinations. While we are currently not requiring this, vaccinations are strongly encouraged. If the COVID situation changes, we might require vaccinations again.
- If possible, we try to social distance within the building.
- An air filtration system is present in the meditation hall.
- Sometimes we might ventilate the meditation hall by cracking window(s) and door(s).
- If you are feeling ill, or know that you have been exposed to a contagious disease, please stay home and take care of yourself.
Ways you can protect yourself and others:
- Wear a mask.
- Stay up to date on COVID vaccinations and boosters.
- Frequently wash your hands.
- Stay home if you are not feeling well.
*These guidelines are based on the recommendations by the Virginia Department of Health.