Sit | Study | Share

Silent Thunder Order (STO) is the network of Zen centers continuing the lineage of our Soyu Matsuoka Roshi, one of the pioneers of Soto Zen in North America. STO supports affiliated centers in their efforts to continue and share the practice of Zen Buddhism. By participating with any STO affiliate, you gain not only a local Zen community but also connection to our broad network of Zen practitioners and teachers. Together we sit Zazen (meditation), study Zen teachings, and share the life-changing legacy of Soto Zen Buddhism.

Annual STO/ASZC Fall Retreat
October 14 to 18, 2026

Celebrating Kongo Langlois Roshi, Abbott of the Zen Buddhist Temple of Chicago from 1971 to 1999

2026 marks the 15th anniversary of our annual retreat!  Everyone is welcome to attend online, as well as in person.

Click here for more information.