Zen Practice at GTMC

At Giac Tam, we cultivate a community of compassion and mindfulness. Our support programs provide guidance for those navigating spiritual inquiries or seeking a collective space for healing and connection.

GTMC Programs & Services

Overview of Offerings

GTMC provides a broad range of programs and services designed to support personal growth, spiritual development, and community engagement. The offerings are tailored to meet the needs of individuals at various stages of their practice and to foster a supportive and caring environment.

Meditation Retreats and Mindfulness Workshops

Regular meditation retreats and mindfulness workshops are organized to help participants deepen their practice. These programs are suitable for both beginners and experienced practitioners, offering structured guidance and a peaceful setting for contemplation and self-discovery.

Classes for All Levels

A variety of classes are available, catering to practitioners of different experience levels. These classes address various aspects of meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist teachings, ensuring that everyone, from novices to advanced students, can find appropriate learning opportunities.

Consultation and Mentorship

GTMC offers individual consultations with teachers, allowing participants to seek personalized guidance and support. In addition, a mentorship program is in place to connect practitioners with experienced mentors who can help guide their spiritual journey.

Chaplain Care and Spiritual Support

Chaplain Care and Spiritual Support Program is available for those in need of emotional or spiritual assistance. These services are intended to provide comfort and guidance during times of difficulty or transition.

Mutual Aid and Community Outreach

The organization actively engages in mutual aid support, community outreach initiatives, and charity work. These programs aim to foster compassion and solidarity within the wider community, providing help to those in need.

Personal Solitary Retreats

Opportunities for personal solitary retreats are offered, allowing individuals to focus intensively on their practice in a quiet and supportive environment. These retreats can be tailored to individual needs and schedules.

Buddhist Initiation and Special Events

GTMC conducts Buddhist initiation ceremonies and regularly hosts special religious and cultural events. These occasions provide a space for communal celebration, learning, and the deepening of one’s spiritual connection.

Upcoming Retreats, Workshops, Classes, and Events at GTMC:

Children Zen Garden Workshop: Saturday. May 23rd (10 AM - 1:30 PM)
Children Retreat (Day of Mindfulness): Saturday, July 25 (10 AM - 3 PM)
Healing Retreat for Mothers with Pregnancy and Child Loss: Saturday, August 15th (9 AM - 5 PM)
Youth Weekend Retreat: Saturday - Sunday, August 29 - 30
Beginner's Mind Retreat: Saturday, September 19th (10 AM - 3 PM)
Mindfulness Retreat for Healthcare Providers: Saturday, October 24 (9 AM - 6 PM)
__Children Retreat (Day of Mindfulness) - Halloween: Saturday, October 31st (10 AM - 3 PM)

Zen Cooking Workshop (Vietnamese Vegan Rice Porridge): Saturday, November 7 (10 AM - 2 PM)
Beginner's Mind Retreat: Saturday, November 28th (10 AM - 3 PM)

__ Zen Cooking Workshop (Vietnamese Vegan Pho Noodle Soup): Saturday, December 12 (10 AM - 2 PM)

Donations & Offerings for GTMC Programs

Giac Tam Meditation Center (GTMC) is a registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization (EIN: 47-4700762), operated entirely by volunteers. All programs at GTMC are provided on a donation basis, in accordance with the Buddhist tradition of dana (generosity), a core practice that promotes compassion and joy while supporting the Sangha and sustaining the Dharma. Donations to GTMC enable the center to serve the community, fund charitable projects, and further the growth of the Dharma. While financial contributions are sincerely appreciated and support our ongoing initiatives, participation in our programs is always open to everyone, regardless of their ability or decision to contribute. We welcome all individuals and affirm that attendance will never be affected by one's capacity to donate.

Donation Categories

Scholarship Supporter: Contributions designated here assist in providing scholarships for individuals, including children and teens, who wish to participate in our programs but require financial assistance. (Suggested donation: $75 - $300 )

General Operations: Donations in this category help cover essential operational expenses, maintenance, and supplies necessary for the smooth functioning of the Zen Monastery. (Suggested donation: $50 - $200)

Charity Fund: Gifts to the Charity Fund are used to provide crucial resources such as food, clothing, and educational materials to children in impoverished countries, such as Vietnam, helping to ensure their basic needs are met and offering opportunities for a better future. (Suggested donation: $35 - $100)

***If you have the capacity and wish to contribute more, GTMC is deeply grateful for your added generosity, which directly supports the expansion and sustainability of our programs and charitable efforts.

Ways to offer dāna:

Check written to: GTMC (3729 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan, MN 55122)
Zelle: giactamcommunity@gmail.com
Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/Zen-GTMC (@Zen-GTMC).