Lotus Moon Zen Sangha

Cleveland, Ohio

Over 2,500 years ago, the Buddha explained that the “Three Jewels” are at the very heart of his teachings. These three refer to the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha (meaning Buddhist community). Lotus Moon Zen Sangha was formed to honor and cultivate these Three Jewels. We are a small community, devoted to awakening wisdom, reducing suffering in our world and growing our compassion. This includes a common commitment to cultivate our practice in our daily lives, in society and in all our relationships. We offer support for meditation and mindfulness through Zen practice in the context of Western culture. Our practice is derived from both the Chinese Linchi and Japanese Soto Zen traditions: However, we also freely adopt other Buddhist sources consistent with the original Buddha’s teaching.

It is through Zen practice that we find clarity. Everyone is capable of accessing the boundless mind and passing freely through the barriers created by our fears and preconceptions. By letting go of dualistic thinking and cultural delusions, we discover our own limitless consciousness and can become self-liberated. This is the fundamental tenet of Zen.

We offer a path of spiritual development open to all - from the “Buddha curious” to experienced practitioners - regardless of experience, spiritual beliefs or religious affiliations. Each evening service will incorporate traditional zen elements, such as formal meditation, chanting, dharma talks, sutra readings, individual instruction, and just enjoying tea together. We encourage your participation and engagement.

First time practitioners are always welcome. Meditation instruction and guidance is provided. We encourage an open “beginner's mind” as you set forth on this spiritual path. Anyone who regularly attends, receives training or otherwise contributes to the Sangha is considered a member of the Lotus Moon Sangha. We offer a "Taking Refuge" ceremony for those ready to make a public expression of their commitment to Buddhism. Some may request training that leads towards formal ordination in the Boundless Mind Zen Tradition. We encourage everyone to develop their own path of zen based on a sustainable daily practice.

Why the name “Lotus Moon”? The American lotus is native to Ohio and can be seen blooming in mid-summer in the river estuaries of Lake Erie not far from Cleveland. In Zen, the full moon is symbolic of awakening. The lotus and moon together can symbolize the journey of life, both physical and spiritual. The Lotus Moon Zen Sangha is part of the West Shore Sangha, the Buddhist community which resides at the West Shore Unitarian Universalist Church in Cleveland, Ohio.

Resident Teachers

Valerie Grigg Devis took up Buddhist practice in her 30s while facing questions about life’s suffering. Her experience includes Japanese, Vietnamese and Chinese zen traditions. She is a member of Boundless Mind Zen and a transmitted teacher in the Hsu Yun Chinese lineage. Her Dharma name is Neaka Kaizen – meaning "Naturally Joyful, Universal Way of Zen". This reflects her view that the true purpose of zen is to “be sane while also being human”. She is pursuing a Master’s Degree with Buddha Dharma University and enjoys gardening with native plants, multi-media art and spoiling two cats.

Jean-Luc Devis began exploring Buddhism during his college years. His interest increased while trekking in Nepal. When he met his first teacher, Koro Kaisan Miles, he was encouraged to walk a path that offered him clarity and meaning. Along his journey he has received the Dharma name Jisen Seido Shendo. Further training & experience has led to recognition as a transmitted Buddhist teacher in the Hsu Yun Chinese lineage. As a Buddhist practitioner, teacher and clergy, he is committed to expressing his practice through relationship, conduct and service. He offers meditation at Grafton Prison, serves as a certified death doula and conducts green burials.

Both Teachers are affiliated with the Boundless Mind Zen Tradition, founded by their Koro Kaisan Miles of Open Gate Zendo in Olympia, Washington. Inspired by his dedication to sharing the Dharma freely, Valerie and Jean-Luc have followed the path of becoming Buddhist teachers. In addition to offering guidance to those exploring Buddhism, and formal instruction to those who are committed to a deeper practice of zen, they are also available for Buddhist services, such as hospital visits, weddings and funerals.

Evening Schedule

7 pm to 8:30 pm Monday Evening

Our practice begins promptly at 7 pm. A 20-minute beginner’s instruction is offered in-person during our first meditation period. Please plan to arrive and take your seat well before meditation begins. If you should arrive late, simply take your seat as quietly as possible. Typically, the service will include:

20-minute meditation

10-minute walking meditation

20-minute silent meditation

Dharma talk, teaching or discussion - depending on the week.

Each month’s weekly rotation schedule is:

First Monday – Precepts & Mindfulness Trainings (Buddhist Ethical Conduct)
Second Monday - Dharma Talk
Third Monday - Dharma Talk
Fourth Monday – Sharing a reading or poem and enjoying tea together
Fifth Monday – Silent Meditation (typically no Dharma talk)

Zoom Link: You can join us via ZOOM from 7 to 8:30 PM Monday evenings. ( contact us for details)

For Further Information: Please contact: Jean-Luc at Jean-LucD@hotmail.com or Valerie at GriggDevis@gmail.com

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