The virulent spread of the Delta variant of Covid-19 presents a global challenge. The ZSS Pandemic Working Group, which includes medical professionals, continues to provide guidance that reflects the latest information from the CDC, federal, state and local authorities. We are committed to maintaining our full schedule of sesshin, special events and daily zazen meetings online and in-person whenever possible, with appropriate precautions. We will update the ZSS website regularly, and there may be significant changes to policy as events unfold, so please check back frequently for the latest information. You may also email the DBZ office or the NYZ office with any questions on our Covid protocols.
In-person participation at all events at New York Zendo and Dai Bosatsu Zendo — including daily zazen, kessei, sesshin, celebrations and ceremonies — must comply with the following Covid-19 protocols.
New York Zendo Shobo-ji
Vaccination
You must provide proof of full vaccination. When you arrive at the temple, you will be asked to show your vaccination card, or a photo of it, or present your New York State Excelsior Pass. If you have received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, you must have been fully vaccinated for at least 14 days before participating; if you received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you must have been vaccinated at least 40 days before participating. Boosters for all of these vaccines, if you are eligible, are strongly recommended. After your information is entered into our records, the documentation of your vaccination card will be deleted.
Masking
You must wear a mask that fully covers your nose and mouth at all times while inside the temple.
Covid-19 Symptoms and Potential Exposure
If you have symptoms, are not feeling well, or if you have been exposed to someone infected with Covid-19, please do not come to the temple, and notify the NYZ office immediately. Symptoms include: fever, headache, cough, breathing difficulties, runny nose, sore throat, and partial or full loss of taste or smell. Please review the CDC symptoms webpage for complete and up-to-date information.
Dai Bosatsu Zendo
Vaccination
You must provide proof of full vaccination. Kindly email a photo of your CDC vaccination card to the DBZ office no later than three days before your arrival (if doing so by mail, one week before you arrive). If you have received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, you must have been fully vaccinated for at least 14 days before coming to DBZ; if you received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you must have been vaccinated at least 40 days before you arrive. If you are eligible, boosters are strongly recommended for all of these vaccines. After your information is entered into our records, the documentation of your vaccination cards will be deleted.
PCR Testing and Self-Isolation
For those driving directly to the monastery: You should self-isolate as much as possible for four days and then take a PCR test within 72 hours of your arrival at the monastery. Afterward, please continue to self-isolate, including during travel to DBZ. If you must stop for a break or for gasoline, please stay outside in the open air and maintain social distancing. Proof of a negative PCR test must be emailed to the DBZ office prior to arrival.
Travel to DBZ Events
For those traveling by plane, train, or who will have long drives with indoor stops: Please abide by the travel recommendations issued by the CDC. Masks are required on public transportation such as bus, airplane, train, and in transportation hubs like stations and airports. We are not offering bus station pickup at this time. Please contact the DBZ office before you travel to arrange your four-day quarantine on the DBZ premises. Space for quarantining participants is limited. You will then take a PCR test within 72 hours of the start of sesshin or any other event. When proof of your negative test result is received, you may join the DBZ community. Full instructions will be provided when you arrange for your stay, including details of fees involved.
Masking
Adherence to these Covid Protocols is essential to mitigate risks related to Covid-19 and allow us to sit unmasked during sesshin. For events other than sesshin, masking may be required in addition to the protocols stated here. Please check your specific event for details, or contact the DBZ office.
Covid-19 Symptoms and Potential Exposure
If you have symptoms, are not feeling well, or if you have been exposed to someone infected with Covid-19, before your arrival date or during travel, please cancel your plans and email the office immediately. Please do not come to the monastery. Symptoms include: fever, headache, cough, breathing difficulties, runny nose, sore throat, and partial or full loss of taste or smell., Please review the CDC symptoms webpage for complete and up-to-date information.
Room Assignments and Common Spaces
Families, households or pods living together may be assigned shared quarters; everyone else will have a room with single occupancy. Common spaces (zendo, Dharma hall, dining room) will have windows open, weather permitting, for additional air circulation during group gatherings and events.
Unvaccinated Individuals
We welcome you to participate in our online teachings, meetings, and sittings.