Who we are

True River Sangha was founded by a group of spiritual friends in 2016. We are one of several sanghas in the greater Philadelphia area that practice in the Plum Village tradition.

In addition to our weekly practice, we also offer occasional Days of Mindfulness, study groups, and an annual group retreat to Blue Cliff Monastery.

Mahayana Zen Buddhism and Thầy’s Lineage

True River Sangha practices in the tradition of Mahayana Zen Buddhism, a path of insight and compassion that emphasizes awakening not just for oneself, but for the benefit of all beings. In Mahayana thought, every person carries the seed of Buddhahood—the capacity for wisdom, compassion, and deep understanding—and the journey is one of remembering, cultivating, and embodying that potential.

Our teacher, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, was ordained in the Linji (Rinzai) school of Vietnamese Zen, a lineage that traces its roots to the Chinese Chan tradition and ultimately to the historical Buddha in India. Over time, Thầy developed a distinctive approach to Zen practice—gentle, poetic, and deeply engaged with the suffering of the world. He emphasized mindfulness in everyday life, the interbeing of all things, and the importance of community on the path of transformation.

Through his teachings, writings, and the international Plum Village community, Thầy has opened the heart of Zen to people of all backgrounds, offering a way of practice that is both timeless and urgently needed in our present moment.

In addition to Thầy’s hermitage in southern France, the Plum Village tradition has grown into a global network of monasteries and practice centers. These include Deer Park Monastery in California, Magnolia Grove Monastery in Mississippi, and Blue Cliff Monastery in New York, as well as centers in Thailand, Hong Kong, Germany, and Australia. The tradition also supports international Wake Up movement for young practitioners, and offers teachings and retreats for people of all ages and backgrounds.