Happy Birthday - Shri Ram Chandra Mission
Transcription
For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only July 2012 Happy Birthday Special Worldwide Issue SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION® Beloved Master This Special Issue of the Echoes Newsletter is an offering of love and gratitude to our beloved Master from abhyasis all around the world. It is a bouquet of gatherings and celebrations held on this auspicious occasion. We hope and pray for Master's speedy recovery as we keep him in our thoughts always. Friday, July 20, 2012 - 10:00 a.m. "Life is going by, our abhyasis are moving forward and the Mission is growing; is this not a great achievement as this highly anticipated birth anniversary approaches? Many of our brothers and sisters are preparing for the event according to our wishes. Interiorisation and fervour generate a subtle and redeeming energy in these special circumstances where a collective awareness is taking place. A birth anniversary of the Masters of the Mission is a kind of sacred walk; it uplifts the aspirant beyond his condition. Devoting full attention to these days is a sign of wisdom; we wish that the greatest number of people attain it. The way of Sahaj Marg is winning over hearts; it is growing according to the divine plans. The world of the future will need reliable guidance, life will become harder and bewildered man will turn to the call of the Divine - as has always been the case on this Earth - excepting that now, the truth will become obvious to the greatest number of people. Many upheavals and trials will lead men to more wisdom and reason: they will become aware of the reality of truth in the world of the spirit. Spiritual advancement is the best way to understand life; a life that leads to and prepares the way for the future life of the subtle being. Following a reliable spiritual path is a good start, going as far as possible, cleaning up one's life at all levels and acting accordingly to not lose time - that is actual wisdom, and we strongly support it with our blessings." Babuji Maharaj http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Tiruppur, India It was a celebration with a difference bringing about a change in the way we celebrate our beloved Master's birthday. Abhyasis had gathered at Tiruppur to celebrate Master's birthday in his physical presence. However the news of his ill health and delicate state was known to all only on 23rd. Master was being looked after at Chennai and he had asked everyone to proceed to Tiruppur. Br. Kamalesh arrived at Tiruppur on 18th July to oversee the preparations for the bandhara. As abhyasis started arriving it was announced that there would be three satsanghs everyday at 6:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. from 20th onwards. 1 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Volunteers and functionaries worked hard to setup the infrastructure for an estimated gathering of around 35,000 abhyasis, including children. It was amazing to see the clockwork precision with which the tents, kitchen, canteen, meditation hall, children centre and other facilities were put up within such a short time span. As abhyasis poured in they automatically took up work and soon teams of volunteers could be seen attending to sanitation, housekeeping, transport, accommodation, kitchen, dining, etc. The gathering swelled up on Sunday the 22nd and at each satsangh Br. Kamlesh read out one of the selected messages from 'Whispers from The Brighter World' that have been sent out through email also. Each of these messages reminded us of the importance of such gatherings and the effort that our Master has been putting in over the years. Although Master was not present physically, his divine presence could be felt by all. On 23rd after the 11:00 a.m. satsangh Br. Kamlesh spoke of Master's state of health and asked for cooperation in allowing Master to recuperate. He asked for each one to pray for Master's health remaining in that state all the time. Br. Kamlesh also conducted all the sittings of the bandhara. The flavour of the celebrations In the history of our Mission, this was perhaps the first mega event celebrated without the benign physical presence of Master. Around 37,000 abhyasis including around 4700 children attended this gathering. http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Babuji Maharaj had put it beautifully in his message dated 20th July 2012 that, "...the interiorisation and fervour generate a subtle and redeeming energy in these special circumstances where a collective awareness is taking place." The physical absence of our beloved Master was compensated by his unmistakable presence seeping constantly into the awareness of abhyasis. The circumstances of his illness seemed to create a common concern which focussed the attention of all on Master. This common concern also united the hearts of all abhyasis and they felt a special bonding with one another. They all remained in a state of prayer all the time thinking of their Master. Br. Kamlesh's fervent advice to abhyasis to do their practice correctly and regularly, to pray for higher spiritual conditions to Master, to prepare themselves and become deserving of such grace from Him, helped abhyasis to remind them of their duties and to make efforts to cement their practice on the right foundation. However, as Babuji Maharaj stated in the message cited above,"The birth anniversary of the Masters of the Mission is a kind of sacred walk; it uplifts the aspirant beyond his condition." The interiorisation of and fervour for Master seemed to have paid spiritual dividends instantly to those who had gathered to celebrate His advent as a human being. 'Slices of Eternity' was the title Master gave to an exhibition retracing his forty years of travels abroad. He had accompanied his Master, Babuji Maharaj in 1972 in his first travel abroad and continued to travel extensively, sometimes four times a year, to spread the message of his Master. The exhibition consisted 2 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER of a 120 feet long photo gallery with comments, year by year until 2012 and a large world map that Master named 'The World of Sahaj Marg' showing all the 'Centres of Light', all the countries that have been touched so far by him. One could see long queues at all times to get an opportunity to visit the stall. The photo gallery which had photographs of the Masters and the book stalls selling Mission literature were also visited by many abhyasis. Soulful rendition of bhajans by Sis. Ranjana, Sis. Aparna Ghosh and Br. Gurpreet were soul lifting and expressed what was felt in all our hearts. The children's centre was bustling with activity as usual with various activities and games being conducted by volunteers from different centres. There were four age groups and age appropriate activities were conducted with drawing, painting and crafts. The 7-12 age group had drawing, coloring, singing and crafts. The 13-17 age group painted a 20x10 ft canvas and were taught a contemporary dance. Outdoor activity included merry go round, train and a car ride, Disney balloons, cycling, volley ball, football and cricket. Br. Vishal from Mumbai taught the children to sing and on 24th evening Br. Kamlesh came and listened with patience to all the songs sung by the children and also had a look at the paintings created by them. http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters 3 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER This gathering was also an opportunity for many volunteer teams to meet up with abhyasis with whom they had been working only through email. It was a chance to get to know their team mates in person and an occasion to review their work and plans. Prefects' Meeting A meeting of all the Prefects attending the bhandara was held on the 23rd of July evening. Br. Kamlesh addressed the gathering of around two thousand. He stressed on the attitude of a prefect, first as an individual abhyasi, and the need for prefects to make the the abhyasi feel as comfortable as a family member. He also mentioned that with respect to his spiritual work, the prefect could pray to Master for increased sensitivity so that the abhyasis can be served better. He read out a few 'Whispers' messages of relevance to the prefects' work. http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Zones-in-charge Meeting A seminar of all the Zones-in-charge of India, along with a few centres-in-charge was convened from 20th to 22nd July and was attended by around 35 participants. The purpose was to recalibrate the effrots currently being undertaken. The seminar was well received and all participants were motivated and looked forward to addressing their work in their respective zones with renewed enthusiasm. The seminar was conducted in a highly collaborative manner, focusing on sharing of best practices, group discussions around priority areas, and an inclusive approach to arrive at a consensus. 4 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER North NorthAmerica America Molena Ashram Gathering The gathering began on Friday evening with preparations and children decorated the ashram with colorful ribbons and lights. There were three satsanghs held on Saturday. A program on 'Prayer' was held on Sunday. Children attended a workshop on composting and maintaining the ashram grounds. On Monday and Tuesday, the children presented programs of dances and songs for Master, and later baked cookies with the teens. On Tuesday evening, the children sang 'Happy Birthday' to Master after dinner and ate a special cake the teens prepared for the celebration. There were three satsanghs on Tuesday and a general atmosphere of prayer and gratitude throughout the ashram. Wednesday, after satsangh, volunteers helped with cleanup before departing. One remarkable aspect of the gathering was the greater involvement of the children in volunteer work and the musical programs. Their joyous efforts contributed to a feeling of harmony and gratitude. Another observation made by several attendees was the degree of silence and observance of the special atmosphere given by Master. There were about 200 in attendance, including 50 children age 13 and under. Houston http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Texas The Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas region gathered at the Holiday Inn Express in Houston on 21st and 22nd of July. One hundred and thirty adults and sixty children were in attendance. The weekend began with satsanghs on Saturday and Sunday morning followed by diary writing. Over the course of both days, several videos were shared, including C h ari j i ' s Li f e , Remembering the Beloved: A Reflection on Babuji, and Glimpses of Revered Master. This last being a candid interview of Master that brought gentle laughter to all. In celebratory spirit, a game of Yatra, hosted by Divya Thota, was enjoyed by opposing sides of brothers versus sisters. It was a lively and humorous exchange of responses to spiritual questions and expressions. A more contemplative session followed by a number of selected readings that led to group introspection, discussion and summation of thoughts. The weekend was highlighted by the children's presentations. Sis. Arpana and Br. Prem of the Austin Center coordinated a 'Jonathan Livingston Seagull' skit. Sis. Sushma with Sis. Arpana coached the children in singing. Abhyasis dispersed early Sunday afternoon. This joyful occasion was organized by a group of devoted brothers and sisters of the Houston Center. 5 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Sunderland Ashram Toronto, Ontario, Canada Approximately 180 abhyasis and children gathered to celebrate for three days. The theme for the gathering was 'Gratitude' and one could not help but be grateful for seven satsanghs; the release of One World, One Family - Proceedings of the North American Seminar in India February 20-24, 2012; and the many opportunities to serve and carry out the tasks necessary to smoothly run such an event. Throughout the gathering, Chariji spoke to us through several DVD's. He delivered a consistent message: Change ourselves to change the world. How? Do our practice. Trust ourselves to change ourselves. The three days were filled with enthusiasm. There was delight to have sisters Veronica Carter (Regional Coordinator) and Marilyn Murray from Cleveland, Ohio making their first visit to the centre for this great occasion. Sis. Veronica spoke, stressing the importance of the Sahaj Marg family and staying on the spiritual journey with love and gratitude for our divine Master. She also spoke briefly about the great value of surrender as we go forward. All brothers and sisters then watched some of Master's videos from HeartSpeak 2010 collection. We had enormous time to brood over his teachings. The amazing thing was that most of our brothers and sisters had taken a day off from work and participated the whole day. The centre was packed to its full capacity the whole day and there was definitely a sign of inner celebration among everyone with fraternal love and joy in his remembrance. In the final reading after the last satsangh, Babuji reminded us to “Never stop being thankful for what you receive; a soul touched by grace must live on gratitude, and carry high its love for God.” (from Whispers of The Brighter World, A Third Revelation Friday, September 6, 2002 10:00 am, page 611). With that message in our hearts, we returned to our homes, filled to the brim with the gift of Sahaj Marg. Latin America Venezuela In La Guaira center 32 abhyasis, including abhyasis from Los Teques, Valencia and Caracas, attended the celebration. After the morning satsangh they prayed for Master's health. It was followed by reading about an activity that Master had given the scholars who went to the STP in 2012, and then watched a DVD from the Hubble Bubble series. Evening satsangh was followed by dinner. In Maracaibo center the abhyasis had satsangh at 9 a.m. and then read a message from 'Whispers from The Brighter World'. The abhyasis shared some experiences with the practice and the Master. After this, they saw some videos and the celebrations ended with a meal. http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters A group of abhyasis from Caracas center who were not able to attend the celebrations in La Guaira gathered at an abhyasi's home. The satsangh at 9 a.m. was followed by a reading of a 'Whispers' message. The abhyasis discussed the importance of developing the relationship with the inner Master. A video of Maracaibo's seminar encouraged the abhyasis to participate in these events. The gathering ended with a meal. Venezuela 6 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER São Paulo Brazil Portugal In Brazil the celebrations were held at Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Porto Alegre - Rio Grande do Sul and Garopaba centres. Some centres had two or more satsanghs on this auspicious day, which was attended by the abhyasis with heart full of love and gratitude to the Master. They read out the 'Whispers' message. In Rio de Janeiro, they watched Masters speeches, read out excerpts from the book 'Complete Works of Ram Chandra' Vol 2; prepared the meal together, and talked about the lives of the Masters and the wonderful example they give us. A silent aspiration for a quick recovery of our beloved Chariji's health was present in every heart. In Sao Paulo, some recently introduced abhyasis were attending their first satsangh on this auspicious date. But all could feel this satsangh as a special and blessed one, where we were united in gratitude and hope for his full recovery. Around thirty abhyasis had gathered in Garopaba, South of Brazil, on this occasion. The atmosphere was filled with His love leading us into the deep silence of our hearts. Everybody felt blessed with His all-pervading presence. Portugal Despite being a working day for most abhyasis,they could get together and celebrate in harmony and serenity at the Estoril Meditation Centre. The day started with satsangh at 7:30 followed by reading from the book 'My Master'. They again joined in the evening for a satsangh at 19:30 and finished the day by reading the special 'Whispers' messages. Mexico With love in their hearts and prayers for Master's well-being, the abhyasis of Mexico gathered on July 24th. During satsangh they perceived the subtle presence of Master and it was a moment of depth with Him in a beautiful place full of peace with the company of light rain, the 'chini, chini', as it is called in Xalapa. This was followed by a reading of Chariji's biography and everyone shared their experiences. Panama Two of the four abhyasis in this country gathered on July 24th to honor the divine presence of beloved Master in their lives with a satsangh at 6:30 p.m. Porto Alegre Mexico http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Brazil 7 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Nicaragua Argentina Cali Center and Cauca Valley, Colombia Prefects and abhyasis from the Cali center and the Cauca valley gathered at 6:30 p.m. to celebrate Master's birthday with a satsangh, with the heart full of love, receptive to the transmission so particular t h a t i s received during these anniversary days. Columbia Jamaica Thirteen abhyasis gathered at the home of Sis. Bobbie VonCorkon and attended the 6:00 p.m. satsangh which was charged with his essence. Tips on spiritual progress and Lalaji's eight observations were read followed by one of the Special Whisper's editions. They cut and shared a cake. The importance of doing the cleaning in the prescribed manner was emphasized followed by a step-by-step explanation of the cleaning process. The celebration came to an end with the Universal Prayer at 9 p.m. locations Shoelcher (city center) and Trinite (Northern part of the Island). Then the celebration continued in Trinite all day long with two additional satsanghs at 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. In the morning all abhyasis observed a thirty minute silence and introspection at 10:30 a.m. then watched the DVD 'Sea of Love'. At 3 p.m., they read the 'Whispers' messages selected for the celebration followed by personal introspection until 4 p.m. The celebration came to an end with the Universal Prayer at 9 p.m. Nicaragua The abhyasis of Nicaragua gathered on this occasion and prayed for Master. It was very intense, with a lot of love and brotherhood and above all with a lot of prayers from the heart for beloved Chariji. Martinique Twenty-four abhyasis of Martinique and Guadeloupe gathered for a full day program on this occasion. The morning satsangh was held at two Bogota, Columbia http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Caracus Martinique 8 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Oceania Fiji Islands Sydney Australia Sydney Lautoka The celebrations were from 23rd to 25th July at YWCA hall. There were morning and evening satsanghs daily, followed by readings from "Whispers from The Brighter World - A Fourth Revelation" and speeches of Master. On 24th July, morning satsangh at 6:30 a.m. was attended by nine abhyasis with an additional satsangh at 9 a.m. The evening satsangh at 6 p.m. was attended by eleven abhyasis, followed by readings, watching the Mission DVD. After dinner the evening came to an end with prayers for Master's health and the universal prayer. Suva The abhyasis of Suva braved the cold and dark of the morning to attend satsangh at Nadawa (Sis. Saleshni's home) with joy in their hearts. Then in the evening nine Suva a b h y a s i s attended the satsangh and community meal at Waimanu. As abhyasis arrived early regardless of the heavy rain, we played a DVD of Master talking to overseas abyasis's and it filled all with joy to see Master so happy and joking. The satsangh was filled with peace that stayed throughout the time spent together and continued as all left for their homes. At North Epping Guides Hall eighty-five abhyasis gathered for three satsanghs. In between, abhyasis enjoyed videos of Master's recent speeches. There was plenty of time for silence and contemplation with an hour's time for personal reflection during Golden Silence. A group activity facilitated by Br. Dipak Joshi allowed everyone to open their hearts to share their special moments with Master. Culinary skills of all abhyasis were on display and sumptuous lunch and dinner was relished by all. The last activity of the day was 9 o'clock universal prayer before all dispersed with the feeling of Master in their hearts. At South Coast (Wollongong) five abhyasis attended the two satsanghs. A very real sense of commitment, peace and love pervaded the day. The morning satsangh at Canberra Centre was attended by two abhyasis and evening satsangh by five abhyasis in Dixon. All enjoyed the dinner together afterwards in His remembrance. Perth Centre Morning satsangh at 6:30 a.m. was attended by nineteen abhyasis. This was followed by the reading of Babuji's special 'Whispers' messages. The days program included Master's talks from the collection HeartSpeak 2010, quiet time for personal sadhana and abhyasis sharing their personal experiences of our Master. The evening satsangh at 6:30 p.m. (attended by 29 abhyasis), saw many more willing hearts join the South Coast (Wollongong) http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Canberra 9 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Brisbane Donnybrook celebration and concluded with a prayer for Master's health. Brisbane Six abhyasis from Perth, Busselton and Donnybrook centres came together to celebrate. Two satsanghs were conducted and the day was filled with love and in a relaxed way they were able to absorb the gifts Master bestowed on them. With great joy abhyasis from Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Toowoomba came together in Brisbane to start this special day with satsangh. The morning contained a heart warming presentation of Master's life by our Sister Elizabeth and then lead to small group discussions and watching DVDs of Master's talks and ended with an evening satsangh. Melbourne Centre Dunedin, New Zealand Thirty-nine abhyasis attended Revered Master's Birthday Celebrations in Melbourne which was conducted at 21 Carver Street, Burwood East. It was a full day program which included three satsanghs. In the morning there was a presentation titled “Reappraise Yourself”, the essence of which was for each abhyasi to look at their own self in terms of their practice and encourage abhyasis to fully adopt the practice and see for themselves the benefit not just in their spiritual life but also in their day to day life. The presentation encouraged group discussion and many abhyasis freely shared their experiences. Master's birthday is often a very cold day in Dunedin and this year was no exception. The ice was thick and glittered like diamonds at 5.10 a.m. when we set out for 6:00 a.m. satsangh. By 4:00 p.m. when we had our second satsangh, it was a warm Dunedin day. Each satsangh was attended by four abhyasis. Our preceptor was in India, but there was a very strong transmission and the readings after satsangh were perfectly matched. Most people had to go work or study during the day. The university meditation room attracted very different people that day and they were interested in talking about Babuji. Donnybrook Centre Videos ofMaster's talks from the latest released DVD set 'Heart Speak 2010' and the 'Whispers' Audio CD were also played. The atmosphere was electric and charged during the whole day. Especially when the Whispers were being played most of the abhyasis went into meditation. There was a lot of love and feeling of brotherhood during the day amongst all abhyasis. Dunedin Perth http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters 10 6 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER MENA environment. Kuwait Dubai The celebrations were spread over three days at the SMSF-JLT, Dubai Ashram, starting from 23rd July. Morning satsangh was held on all three days at Kuwait 6:3 0 a.m. at all zones in Dubai and at the ashram. On the 23rd and 24th, evening satsanghs were held at 7:30 p.m. at the ashram. More than 200 abhyasis attended the celebrations over the three days. A DVD from Heart Speak 2010 titled “Ripples of Love finding a Master” was played on 24th evening prior to the satsangh. The atmosphere was charged enabling the abhyasis to get the most from the auspicious occasion. The ashram was open throughout the day on the 23rd and 24th July to facilitate abhyasis to remain in the spiritual http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Around forty abhyasis attended the celebration in Kuwait. The celebration began with a satsangh in the morning followed by a DVD of Revered Chariji which was played. In the evening a group discussion was conducted followed by a DVD of talks by beloved Chariji. An atmosphere of stillness and serenity prevailed throughout the day Dubai enabling abhyasis to feel Chariji's grace and blessings around them. The celebrations concluded with a satsangh followed by dinner. Doha, Qatar Doha A quiet and simple gathering at an abhyasi's residence for the morning satsangh at 6:30 a.m. A chapter from the book “Principles of Sahaj Marg” was read out. The evening program started at 6:00 p.m. with Chariji's video on the Lucknow celebrations played followed by the children's center members presenting a rendition of the beautiful song “Master o Master” and dedication of two devotional songs to our beloved Chariji. This was followed by satsangh at 7:00 p.m. Dinner was served. A feeling of gratitude was felt for his presence in our lives. 11 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Europe Galway Centre , Ireland Forty-five abhyasis attended a small seminar organised in Galway centre, starting on 23rd July evening with satsangh and dinner. On the 24th in between the satsanghs, there was a program on the theme 'The Inspiration of Master's Life' and a question and answer session for newer abhyasis in the afternoon. A DVD of Master's 80th birthday in 2007 was shown. The children enjoyed a program with special activities. Edinburgh Twenty-three abyhasis gathered in the small coastal town of North Berwick. After the morning satsangh they viewed a DVD of Master's speech which was followed by a shared 'pot luck' lunch. In the afternoon small groups discussed the theme 'The Inspiration of Master's Life', facilitated by Sis. Fiona Campbell. The photo shoot in the garden, preceded the afternoon satsangh at 4 p.m. Berlin, Germany Around thirty abhyasis from different parts of Germany gathered in Berlin ashram to celebrate Master's birthday. It started with a satsangh on July 23rd evening and two satsanghs on 24th. The day included an open discussion on anger Galway and rage, which showed the different views, aspects and experiences of each abhyasi. The special 'Whispers' messages were read out after the satsanghs. Preparing and having meals together, quiet moments, reading in the CREST library, individual meditation and exchanging experiences of encounters with Master, filled the day and created closeness with the distant one. Some abhyasis and prefects left for Cottbus centre 150 km away, to conduct an evening satsangh for those who could not come to Berlin. The celebration concluded by preparing and singing a song for Master. Edinburgh At Lüneburg, Germany, two satsanghs were conducted on 24th to mark the occasion. The morning satsangh was attended by five abhyasis and evening satsangh was attended by nine abhyasis. Czech Republic Berlin http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Prefect Petr Zalovic organized satsanghs in Duba centre on 21-23 July. In Prague center two satsanghs were organized on 24th July, in between which they listened to Master's speech 'Live in the Present'. 12 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Austria Paris Schlossberg - Styria/ Austria Paris About twenty abhyasis from various places in Austria and Slovenia met to celebrate Master's birthday in Schlossberg centre from 23rd evening to 25th July noon. Lots of sparkling eyes and happy faces left the seminar in His remembrance. One hundred and sixty abhyasis gathered at the ashram from 23rd -25th July. On 23rd after cleaning the ashram, the afternoon was dedicated to inner cleaning and a satsangh at 7:30 p.m. On 24th, three satsanghs at 7:30 a.m., 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. were followed by readings of special 'Whispers' messages, news of Master's health and of the celebrations at Tiruppur. Time was spent in individual meditation and introspection. A large number of abhyasis went to India, but all those who remained in France felt as if their hearts were in Tiruppur. National Ashram, Milan Around sixty abhyasis from north and central Italy gathered in Milan from Saturday evening until Wednesday morning. As the news from Tiruppur came regarding Master's health, everyone sat in prayer and the atmosphere was charged with devotion and deep craving to be with Master. As Master's health improved, the ashram atmosphere also became more serene with peaceful energy. Several special 'Whispers' messages were projected after satsanghs. On 23rd and 24th there were two sessions from the book 'Down Memory Lane' which has been translated into Italian and is soon to be released. It was for all a beautiful way to be with him and discover his humanity. Time was dedicated to individual practice and for silent introspection to get ready for the marvelous gifts that were received with every satsangh. Abhyasis seemed to move as one, immersed with the thought and feeling of Master, naturally flowing through the days. London We began with a satsangh in the new London ashram, then heard a reading and watched a speech of our Master focusing on what celebration really means. After breakfast, we discussed in small groups on the inspiration of Master's life. Over a delicious lunch the sharing of discoveries continued. Sis. Rosalind Pearmain gave a talk focusing on what it is to really try and taste the sublime divinity of our Master's essence, with some practical suggestions to help deepen our practice. Children had prepared a poem, going from A- Z through different aspects of Sahaj Marg. After this, we watched the film of the inauguration of the London Ashram and looked back on the hard work of the people involved. Milan http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters London 13 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Far East Malaysia A three day celebration was held at the Dhyana Nilaya Ashram, Klang, to mark the occasion. On 23rd July satsanghs, video screening and 9 o'clock prayer was conducted while on 25th morning the program finished after satsangh and video screening. On 24th, abhyasis gathered early and their thoughts and hearts were filled with Master and his grace. Prayers were said for his health and well-being. Satsanghs were held in the morning and evening, with individual meditation given equal importance during the day. The latest messages from 'Whispers from The Brighter World' were read. An activity which involved drawing out a plan of Babuji Memorial Ashram, Manapakkam, immersed all the participants in the thought of the ashram and their many visits there. Children sang the birthday song and cut a cake. A period of golden silence was followed by volunteer work. A video screening followed the evening satsangh. The day ended with the nine o'clock prayer. Indonesia Jakarta had a full day celebration with two satsanghs. The screening of the videos of Master's birthday celebrations in 2007 and 2010 held in Tiruppur transported all to the bhandara. Sahaj Marg literature was read and discussions on Master and the Mission were held. Abhyasis shared their experiences of their journey in Sahaj Marg. All prayed for Master's health. China China The centres of Foshan, at Guangdong and Shangai had satsanghs to mark the occasion. In Foshan a presentation on 'cleaning and meditation' was screened. The abhyasis enjoyed celebrating Master's birthday by cutting a cake. In Shanghai the celebration was wonderful with fourteen abhyasis attending three satsanghs. Master's speech was screened and abhyasis shared their experiences. The abhyasis felt happy to be a part of the Sahaj Marg family. Japan Abhyasis in centres at Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka celebrated Master's birthday. Satsanghs were conducted and they watched Master's videos and shared experiences. In Tokyo eleven abhyasis attended the three satsanghs conducted on the 24th of July. The session on 'Discipline and Change' and activities on goal setting were very helpful. All Malaysia abhyasis had something to take back and follow in their lives. Master's presence and the joy of being together with him was felt by all. At Osaka although there were only three abhyasis they felt Master's presence strongly. Kandy, Sri Lanka Around fourteen abhyasis celebrated Master's birthday by getting together in the mornings and evenings for satsangh at Sis. Bawani Krishnasamy's house. Indonesia http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters 14 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Africa Kampala, Uganda Philippines The center marked Master's birthday with morning and evening satsanghs. The abhyasis watched the video 'The First Exposure to the Guru'. Singapore The day dawned with a feeling of love and deep respect for Master and the feeling was strengthened with the blissful morning satsangh for an assembly of about forty people. There were presentations based on Master's literature to convey the truth of Maxims 7 and 8. Discussions were held on subjects like Real Goal, Prayer, Practice, etc. A visual journey to ashrams of the world heightened the craving to have an ashram, a home in Singapore too. Many abhyasis shared their experiences with Master which made everyone fall in love with Him all over again. After an interactive discussion all had a lovingly prepared lunch. In the evening children prayed for Master's good health and sang for him. Singapore Antananarivo, Madagascar http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Kampala Centre had two satsanghs, one at 7.30 a.m., attended by ten abhyasis and the second at 7 a.m., attended by twelve abhyasis. After each satsangh, Master's talk from the book 'The Guru and the Goal' and the chosen topic 'Love, Compassion and Mercy' was read out. It was a joyous occasion for all abhyasis to come together on Master's birthday. Port Elizabeth, South Africa Master's 86th birthday was celebrated at the Nisha residence in Malabar. The day was marked by a feeling of tranquility and internalisation. Sis. Janine and Sis. Elbe from East London travelled a return journey of close to 700 km to be with us for the celebration. They picked up Sis. Louise from Grahamstown. Knysna 15 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Lenasia Ashram As the cold winter morning sets in over Johannesburg, abhyasis from far and wide gathered to celebrate our beloved Master's 86th birthday. The day commenced with the 7:30 a.m. satsangh followed by Master's talks from HeartSpeak 2009. Lenasia Around hundred abhyasis were present with a feeling of joy and excitement but many were also saddened by Master's ill health. All prayed that Babuji Maharaj eases any pain our Master may be facing. The afternoon continued with inner contemplation followed by cake cutting by the children. Richard's Bay Durban When it was time to go home the children did not want to leave the ashram. As the sun set over the winter sky the day was brought to a close with the evening meditation. Our heartfelt gratitude to our beloved Master for showering us with his blessings and making this day so special for everyone. Vilnius, Lithuania CIS Master's birthday was celebrated in more than twenty centers in countries of CIS. Over 350 abhyasis took part in this remarkable occasion. The special messages from 'Whispers from The Brighter World' were read out in the centres, which made the abhyasis more aware of the importance of these celebrations. They also watched DVDs of Master's talks, read out from Mission literature and had discussions on spiritual topics. This celebration helped in increasing the feeling of brotherhood and joy among the members of Sahaj Marg family in these centres. Two satsanghs were conducted in between which they had a discussion on the topic 'Master's role in our life'. Everybody had a chance to tell their story and share their experiences. They felt the unity of hearts and the great work being done on them. Riga, Latvia It was a day of tranquility, brotherhood and openness of hearts. They worked on the topic 'How to prepare ourselves for the Seminar in India', watched the video about our Master, 'The ocean of Love', and listened to the story about the harmony in the life of Master. The day ended with a cultural programme. Almaty, Kazakhstan About thirty abhyasis attended the two satsanghs during the day. After breakfast they had an informal talk remembering and discussing the last celebrations conducted in India and in their centre. They watched videos, one of which was about Master's birthday celebration in 2010 which made them go deeper into the blessed atmosphere of the celebration. Many of the abhyasis felt like they were in the ashram in his divine presence. http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters Almaty, Khazakhstan 16 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Moscow Murmansk Petrozavodsk Russia Rostov-on-the Done and Novocherkassk Ust-Ilimsk Saint Petersburg In Moscow, fifty abhyasis took part in the celebration which was conducted in a large hall rented for the day. At St. Petersburg around twenty-five people were present. Their gratitude to Master found its expression in a collage prepared by them. The morning satsangh took place in the two cities of Rostov-on-Don and Novocherkassk with around twenty abhyasis present at each city. After the morning satsangh, the abhyasis of both centers gathered at one abhyasi's home near Rostov-on-the Done. In Petrozavodsk the atmosphere was that of unity and brotherhood and a feeling that the foundation for the centre at Petrozavodsk was laid strengthened in the abhyasis. In Nevinnomyssk, two satsanghs were conducted with five abhyasis. At Ust-Ilimsk twenty-five abhyasis attended the morning satsangh. All of them were in a joyful mood, filled with love in their hearts. They had dinner together followed by a discussion about the balance between the spiritual and material wings in human life. Twenty-six abhyasis from the Murmansk centre attended the celebration. A video conference with Monchegorsk center situated nearby, was also arranged here. Minsk http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters 17 For Private Only For PrivateCirculation Circulation Only ® SHRI RAM CHANDRA MISSION July 2012 Special Worldwide Issue ECHOES WORLDWIDE NEWSLETTER Belarus In Belarus abhyasis from Vitebsk, Kislovodsk, Alla, Igor Revenkos, Minsk, and Gomel centres participated in the celebrations. In Vitebsk, fourteen abhyasis from the Vitebsk, Kislovodsk center participated in the celebration. The prayerful mood, joy, gratitude and atmosphere of unity prevailed during the whole day. In Minsk, the celebration was held from 23 to 25 of July. On 24th July more than 130 abhyasis attended the gathering. It was very nice to see lots of children in the ashram. When they were informed that Master's health was getting better, everybody breathed a sigh of relief and was happy. After breakfast they watched a slide-show about the biography of Chariji. The day was full of love which shone on the faces around. The atmosphere was filled with our gratitude. In Gomel, fourteen abhyasis attended the two satsanghs. The atmosphere was full of love and devotion. Nevinnomyssk Chernigov Ukraine In Kiev centre where forty-five abhyasis attended the celebration, the sisters drew a 'kolam' (design on the floor), as in south India, and the hall was decorated with garlands of flowers giving the abhyasis a feeling of being in India. During the day they had group discussion on 'Why the Master' and 'The Role of the Master of My Life.' In Odessa eighteen abhyasis participated in two satsanghs at 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. At Lvov around ten abhyasis participated in two satsanghs followed by reading from 'My Master'. In Zvenigorod four abhyasis had gathered to celebrate this occasion. At Chernigov, eight people (six of them newcomers) attended the celebration. After satsangh they watched a movie about a meeting of the Russian speaking abhyasis with Master, at Tiruppur in July 2011. At Kharkov, twenty-two abhyasis participated. At Mukachevo twelve abhyasis participated in the two satsanghs that were held without any prefect. At Ujgorod two abhyasis meditated on their own. All felt that the day was something special, full of joy and light. Kharkov Odessa Zvenigorod Lvov Kiev http://www.sahajmarg.org/newsletters 18
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