Gendronnière 2035 Project

SUPPORTING TOGETHER A ZEN TEMPLE FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

The Zen temple of La Gendronnière is our shared legacy.
It is both the source of all practice centers and the lineage that unites us within the AZI.

On May 1, 2025, the AZI General Assembly unanimously approved the entire “Gendronnière 2035” project.

This project, supported by all the elders, is based on three pillars:

1. Quickly establish a monastic structure enabling an inspiring community life conducive to Gyoji (continuous practice):

Community life, according to Zen rules, is today a treasure — a source of meaning and inspiration for current and future generations.
The swift creation of a stable monastic structure forms the foundation of the entire Gendronnière 2035 project.

Feel free to come and reside at La Gendronnière.
Submit your application:
secretaire.generale.azi@gmail.com

2. Continue the GREEN TEMPLE project:

La Gendronnière — with its silence, forests, meadows, vegetable garden, ponds, and remarkable trees — is a sanctuary for this treasure of biodiversity.
All our projects and reflections will follow a path of respect and unity with this generous natural environment.

Frugality and exemplary conduct will guide the management of energy, water, food, digital tools, waste, etc.

All expertise is welcome!

3. Build, rebuild, and renovate the facilities necessary for fulfilling practice and responsible community life:

Two major construction projects:

• A new energy-efficient Dojo/Hatto with monastic cells
• A Shuryo (study hall) with individual rooms

Several renovation projects for existing buildings: to improve the conditions for welcoming and hosting guests for short and medium stays.

Installation of Tiny Houses: for families, retirees, students, and all requests for adapted stays.

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BUDGET AND TIMELINE:

The total budget amounts to €2,500,000, or €250,000 per year over ten years.

Work has already begun with the renovation of the Commons dormitory.
It will continue over the next two years with the construction of the Dojo/Hatto and monastic cells, replacing the old Dojo.
In 2028/29, construction of the Shuryo (study hall) and individual rooms will begin.

At the same time, the renovation of the rooms and dormitories in the “new building” will commence, along with the installation of the Tiny House village.

HOW TO SUPPORT THE GENDRONNIÈRE 2035 PROJECT

This beautiful project will only come to life if it is supported by the entire Sangha and all AZI practice centers!

To help us establish an annual budget, consider setting up a monthly bank transfer:

No matter the amount, commit to making a monthly donation over several years.
You can, of course, adjust the amount along the way — up or down — depending on your financial situation.
Examples: €5 / €10 / €15 / €20 / €25 / €30 / €40 / €50 or more…

100 people donating €20 per month equals €24,000 per year!

AS A COMMUNITY 

In your practice center, agree together on a monthly amount the dojo can contribute, and set up a regular transfer.
A receipt will be issued at the end of the year for your bookkeeping.
Again, whatever the initial amount, it can evolve over time based on the center's financial capacity.

Here are some ideas to raise these funds:

• Increase the contribution for a zazen session by €1
• Raise the monthly membership fee by €2 or €3
• Organize a morning or full day of practice dedicated to the project
• Create an event to share the story of La Gendronnière (meal, festive evening, talk...)
• Spread the word on social media, share the information widely

If you prefer to make an annual or one-time donation:

• Without a tax receipt:
  Make your donation to the AZI account, with the note: "Donation Project 2035"

IBAN AZI :  FR76 1027 8371 6000 0131 5700 558  BIC AZI : CMCIFR2A

• With a tax receipt (66% tax-deductible in France):
  Make your monthly, annual, or one-time donation to the AZG (religious association) account, clearly indicating:
  "Donation for the new DOJO"

AZG IBAN: ……………………………………… BIC: ………………………

LET'S CARRY THE GENDRONNIÈRE 2035 PROJECT TOGETHER

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY!

The Spiritual Council and the Boards of AZI and AZG