The teacher:
The field is the actual teacher. Grass growing, birds calling, the presence of trees.
Bhavana Sarah Addae was ordained as a dharma teacher in 2003 from Stillpoint Zen Buddhist Temple under P’arang Geri Larkin. She was a senior dharma teacher at Stillpoint until 2006. After many years of practice, she started her own community: Field Temple.
Field Temple is located in Detroit’s Poletown neighborhood, at 5333 Elmwood st.
This neighborhood used to be densely populated in the early to mid 20th century, then most of the houses were abandoned and stood in neglect, including frequent illegal trash dumping in the backyards of the decaying structures. In all this time though, trees and plants were also left to their own, which means that life was working on reclaiming these spaces with trees and birdsong.
In 2019, Field Temple received a grant from Detroit Future City to clean up the forest. We rented dumpsters and hired tree care professionals to boost forest health. We also purchased trees and native plants to increase biodiversity in the open field areas. With each act of tenderness toward the living constantly creating land we receive love back, blessings are multiplied and reflected a thousandfold.
Open air Sunday meditation at 10 am has been a part of our practice at Field Temple since 2019, and it is ongoing.
All are welcome. Please dress appropriately for outdoor sitting. Mats and cushions are provided.