Doshin Mark Turbak

Biography

Doshin began exploring Soto Zen practice as a college student at the University of Minnesota. He joined the Minnesota Zen Meditation Center in 2011, received the precepts in 2013, and was ordained by Ted O’Toole in 2015.

His practice emphasizes the Mahayana and Chinese Chan roots of Soto Zen, with particular interest in integrating ritual and ceremony into contemporary life, shikantaza practice, and the relationship between the 12 Steps and Zen. He draws inspiration from practitioners who bring wholehearted attention to simple activities such as sitting zazen, eating oryoki, or ringing a meditation bell.

Doshin began his nonprofit career in 2002 with the American Red Cross and has since held roles with several leading nonprofit organizations, where he organized community programs, mobilized volunteers, and raised funds. He currently serves as a major gift officer for a national health organization.

In his free time, he enjoys exploring the history of the Twin Cities, spending time near any body of water with his family, and listening to the Beatles and bossa nova.