Shasta Abbey

Shasta Abbey is a Buddhist monastery in the Serene Reflection Meditation (Soto Zen) tradition and is a temple in the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives. The late Reverend Master Jiyu-Kennett, founder of our Order, established Shasta Abbey in 1970 and was its Abbess until her death in 1996. Her spiritual successor as Abbot of Shasta Abbey is Reverend Master Eko Little. The monastery is home to 25-30 ordained, celibate male and female priests and is located on 16 acres of forested land north of the town of Mt. Shasta, California.


Buddhist training at Shasta Abbey is based on the practice of Serene Reflection Meditation and the keeping of the Buddhist Precepts. The monastic schedule provides a balance of formal meditation, working meditation, and ceremonial, which allows the mind of meditation to be cultivated throughout all aspects of daily life. Lay trainees at the Abbey follow a schedule that adheres closely to that of the monastic community. In addition, we have a large non-resident lay community, which includes not only local friends, but also trainees from around the world.


Shasta Abbey practices the ancient Buddhist tradition of Dana (generosity of spirit, selfless giving). We do not charge fees; the generous donation of goods, services and money allows us to continue to offer the Dharma (the Buddha's Teaching).