Ideal for beginners and former practitioners alike, this large temple hosts public meditation services each week in its beautiful three-story location in Lakeview. Beginners are welcome to introductory meditation classes, as well as beginner's Zen retreats. Those wishing to further their spiritual education can become temple members and even join the Maitreya Buddhist Seminary to become dharma teachers or priests. The temple has two meditation areas, a bookstore and separate corridors for students and residents.

Kong Sim, a current seminary student, says "This is a very good place for people wishing to begin practice based on spiritual meditation; it's also good for people who want to learn meditation but aren't interested in Buddhism." The temple blends North American and Korean influences, offering English services and dharma talks, meditation from the floor or in chairs and no requirement to wear robes, as well as chanting in Korean, a beautiful meditation area with statues, brightly colored flags and traditional zambutons and zafus (meditation cushions and pillows), and the request to remove shoes at the door.

Centerstage Reviewer: Genevra Gallo