Buddhist Studies

Spring 2022: The Wonderful Teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh

Our true home is in the present moment. To live in the present moment is a miracle….The miracle is to walk on the green Earth in the present moment, to appreciate the peace and beauty that are available now. Peace is all around us—in the world and in nature—and within us—in our bodies and our spirits. Once we learn to touch this peace, we will be healed and transformed. It is not a matter of faith; it is a matter of practice.

—Thich Nhat Hanh

Co-taught by Michael & Joen O’Neal

Thich Nhat Hanh (1926–2022) was one of the most important teachers of mindfulness in the world. He was active his entire life in presenting ways of engaging with the challenges of our lives and our world that are profound, inspiring, and accessible to everyone. His example and teachings have greatly influenced the development of Compassionate Ocean, our teachers, and our members.

Joen and Michael first met Thich Nhat Hanh in 1982 when he visited Minneapolis on a peace tour. Since then, Joen and Michael studied with him and his community on numerous occasions, including two extended retreats at his community at Plum Village, France, as well as at several retreats in the United States. His writings have been used extensively as texts for courses offered at Compassionate Ocean.

Each class will include sitting meditation; a talk based on readings from the course text, Thich Nhat Hanh: Essential Writings; small group discussions; and practices and songs from Plum Village. The text will be available at the first class (and mailed to those who will be participating via Zoom).

Registration Information

Wednesdays, Mar. 30–May 18 (eight sessions) (#B101)

7:00-9:00 P.M.

$185 (members $165) (includes course materials)

This course will be held in-person at the Center, with an option for remote participation via Zoom if requested.

Member rates apply to members of all local Buddhist centers. Reduced fees are offered as needed; please contact the Center at (612) 781-7640.

Enrollment for classes is limited, and early registration is encouraged.

You may register online and make a secure payment using the button below. Or contact us to request a mail-in registration form.

$185 for non-members (fee includes book)
$170 for non-members (if you already have the book Thich Nhat Hanh: Essential Writings)
$165 for members (fee includes book)
$150 for members (if you already have the book Thich Nhat Hanh: Essential Writings)

Future Buddhist Studies Course Dates

Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 P.M.
June 8–July 27, 2022 (#B102)
Sept. 21–Nov. 9, 2022 (#B103)