SF Insight — Frequenty Asked Questions
Q. Do I need to come to the 2nd Sunday of the month orientation before I come to a regular Sunday night sitting?
A: No, the orientation class is not required for Sunday night attendance. It is offered as a welcoming introduction to the sangha -- an opportunity to hear, in a small group format, our history, lineage, practice and to have your questions answered.
Q. Is there a fee for the Sunday night group?
A: There is no set fee for the class. Suggested donation is $10, but you are welcome to give whatever you can. The teachings and teachers are supported by dana (generosity), an important practice within the Buddhist tradition. Your donation also goes to cover the cost of the room, and other operating expenses. No one is turned away for lack of funds.
Q. Will I know where to go or what to do when I first walk in?
A. We meet in the Thomas Starr King room at the Unitarian-Universalist church. (1187 Franklin St @ Geary) Sometimes we change rooms to accommodate a church function. There is a chalk-board that lists where groups are meeting in the church.
Q. What's the format of the evening?
A. The general format is: 7 pm Meditation for about 40 minutes, a 10 minute break to stretch, get tea, socialize, etc. and then a dharma talk and/or discussion. We end by 8:55.
Q. If I come to the chi gung beforehand, is there a fee for that?
A. There is no fee for the chi gung
Q. Is there appropriate attire?
A. No, just wear something comfortable.
Q. Do I bring my own cushion? Are there chairs?
A. There are some cushions for sitting on the floor, but if you have one, please bring it if you can. There are plenty of folding chairs.
About the Beginning Class series:
Beginning classes are offered 3 times a year through the church’s Adult Religious Education Program. Each series includes 5 evening sessions and one Saturday daylong class.
Q. What if I can only come to 3 of the 5 classes?
A. Please contact the teachers if you can't make all the classes. It tends to work best if you don't miss the first few. Speak to the teacher in person, or email teacher@sfinsight.org.
Q. I can come to all the classes, but can't come to the daylong - can I come to the daylong that's included in the next series, and not pay for it?
A. The beginning classes are given through the church Adult Religious Education program. Your registration fee all goes to the church. It is fine to substitute, but we ask that you make a request for the switch in writing to the address on the registration form or email teacher@sfinsight.org.
Q. I want to attend the series, but it's too late to register by mail - can I pay at the door?
A. Yes. Please come early if you are planning to register at the door. The mail is picked up one or two days beforehand, so if your check won’t arrive by then, just show up.
Q. Do I need to call the information line to register for the class, as well as send a check?
A. Your check received in the mail assures you a spot in the class.
San Francisco Insight Mission Statement
The mission of SF Insight is to encourage the awakening of wisdom and compassion in all aspects of life, through the practice of mindfulness, the study of the Buddha's teachings, and the cultivation of a supportive community of practitioners where all can take refuge in the three jewels of Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.