The True Names Sangha studies and practices the teachings of the revered Vietnamese Zen Buddhist Master, Thich Nhat Hanh. We are located in Northeast Ohio, in greater Cleveland. On the third Sunday of each month, we get together at a member's home from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. In the fall, we have an all-afternoon retreat.

Our practice begins with a 20 minute silent meditation, followed by a recitation of Thich Nhat Hanh's Five Mindfulness Trainings and the Heart Sutra. Then, often after reading aloud an assigned chapter from one of Thich Nhat Hanh's books, we discuss what we have read and it's application to our lives. We finish out our practice with light, wholesome refreshments and tea.

The True Names Sangha is not a Buddhist church. Many in our Sangha are active members of other congregations. We share the belief that Thich Nhat Hanh offers teachings and a practice that can improve our personal lives, the community and the nation. The name of our Sangha comes from a poem by Thich Nhat Hanh, "Call Me by My True Names."

If you'd like to join us, or see what our meetings are like, just send us your name and e-mail address and we will e-mail information about our next Sangha meeting.