A Sangha is a Buddhist community. The Hridaya Vihara Sangha, or Temple in the Heart Sangha, is a subtemple of the Desert Zen Center and was officially designated and certified as such by the Ven. Thich An Giao, Roshi, Abbott of the Desert Zen Center, who installed Rev. Kshanti as its abbess.

The sangha is a network of people connected by their practice of compassion and interest in Buddhism. It is open to and welcomes connection with any person or group that is not confined to a particular location - hence the name, "temple in the heart."

Our teachers and other members practice and do service in a variety of places including within prisons.

The sangha's practice (& ways in which people participate):
* Service wherever it is needed * Studying the dharma * Meditation practice * Religious services & ceremonies * Holiday celebrations * Classes in Dharma/Buddhist studies * Volunteering for the Prison Ministry * Zenpals: Dharma friendships by correspondence