Voting members (called “Members” in our Bylaws) participate more fully in the life and governance of Empty Moon Zen. Voting members receive notice of membership meetings, may vote on matters reserved to the membership, and may participate in the governance of Empty Moon Zen as provided in our Bylaws and Policy and Procedures Manual.
Who can become a voting member?
Our Bylaws establish four requirements for membership. In plain language, you are eligible for membership if you:
- support the purpose of Empty Moon Zen;
- participate in the life of Empty Moon Zen or one of its Associated Practice Communities;
- have made at least one recorded financial contribution during the past 12 months; and
- request membership in writing.
Membership in an Associated Practice Community is separate from membership in Empty Moon Zen. You may choose to belong to both.
How do I request membership?
If you meet the eligibility requirements and would like to become a voting member, you can indicate your interest when making a financial contribution to Empty Moon Zen.
Checking the membership box on the donation form serves as your written request for membership. You do not need to complete a separate membership application.
After you request membership, Empty Moon Zen will confirm that the membership requirements have been satisfied in accordance with the procedures established in our Bylaws and Policy and Procedures Manual. Membership becomes effective upon confirmation by the Board of Trustees.
What is the purpose of Empty Moon Zen?
“The purpose of Empty Moon Zen is to support and foster the practice, study, and teaching of Zen Buddhism through spiritual community, practice, service, and relationships among its Members, Teachers, and Associated Practice Communities.”
What do our Bylaws say about membership eligibility?
Article II, Section 1 of the Bylaws provides:
(b) An individual is eligible for membership if the individual:
(i) supports the purpose of Empty Moon Zen;
(ii) participates in the life of Empty Moon Zen or one of its Associated Practice Communities;
(iii) has made at least one recorded financial contribution during the past 12 months; and
(iv) provides written notice to the Secretary requesting membership.
(c) An individual who satisfies the membership requirements established by these Bylaws becomes a Member upon confirmation by the Board of Trustees that those requirements have been satisfied in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Policy and Procedures Manual.
Already a voting member?
You do not need to request membership again when making future contributions. Membership continues as long as you continue to satisfy the membership requirements established in the Bylaws. Of course, you may discontinue your membership at any time if you so choose.
You can request the complete Empty Moon Zen Bylaws for additional information about the rights, continuation, and termination of membership.