For those seeking a more Judeo-Christian feel to their Zen practice, the Buddhist Temple of Chicago combines a Western-based, church-like experience with traditional Buddhist teachings in a Japanese tradition. This small temple contains honey-wood pews, a small piano and a simple alter at the end of a carpeted aisle, along with administrative offices. Services are structured much like Western services, with an introduction, hymns and a minister or layperson's message. However, the service explores the central tenants of Buddhism and includes chanting, readings, incense and gongs.

The temple also holds services in Japanese and hosts several other affiliates, such as a Japanese language school, a children's dharma school, the Kokyo Taiko group (Japanese drumming), the American Buddhist Association (see Heartland Sangha in related article) and the Chicago Kendo Dojo. The temple has plans for relocation to a new space, so check the Web site or call ahead for service locations and times.

Centerstage Reviewer: Genevra Gallo