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Diwali Greetings 2017 from Meera Didi & Malaysian Family to BK World Family
16 October 2017
My Stage My Service - 2nd International Tamil Retreat at Asia Retreat Center, Malaysia
12 October 2017
“Feelings-full” achievements were visible on faces of all the participants particularly the foreigners. They highlighted that apart from classes, discussions and Q&A session they were touched by the hospitality and the caring nature of the residents, helpers and other. They also strongly felt Baba’s presence during the blessing ceremony and that each blessing was so accurate.
The song writer, music director, and the singers who are all non-BKs shared their experiences on the task of producing the CD along with the BK Team. It was indeed extraordinary. They all felt that an invisible force has been guiding them all the way through. Their sharing really touched the hearts of many foreign BKs and the live singing melted their hearts. Wah Baba Wah!
Click here for detailed report with more photos.
Asha Didi from ORC, Delhi, Visits Australia, 18-30 August
17 September 2017
Over 12 days Asha didi visited six cities in Australia for a rakhi tour, accompanied by Sr Savitha. She conducted a BK retreat in Melbourne, gave three public talks in Hindi in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, and two public talks in English in Melbourne and Perth. Asha didi visited the three Australian retreat centres and several centres, giving BK classes and sharing her wealth of experiences wherever she went.
Asha Didi and Sr Savitha with Gold Coast Group
MELBOURNE 18-21 AUG
Service began right from the moment Asha didi set foot on Australian land. At the airport a Shivani follower came and helped with luggage and later attended Asha didi’s program in South Morang with his family. Asha didi gave him her flower bouquet with a lot of love and blessings so that we all could see the soul overwhelmed with love and regard.
Asha didi and Sr Savitha had a beautiful Aussie-Indian welcome at Fitzroy Centre. Even after travelling for so long, Didi was as though she had all the time in the world and love in her heart to sit with the family for welcome chit chat with drishti and toli. Within three hours of arrival in Melbourne she went to meet
the Consulate General of Indian Embassy in Melbourne. It was wonder to see how Baba’s customs of toli, blessing cards, rakhi tying are so special and create deep impressions on souls. The Consul General and most of the staff had their rakhis tied. Everyone was filled with quiet gems of knowledge were shared by Asha didi with each one. Didi invited the Consul General and staff of the Indian Consulate to attend a weekend retreat at Peninsula Retreat Centre.
Raksha Bandhan at the retreat centre
It was serene, sweet and special. Raksha Bandhan is very close to a BK’s heart and Asha didi’s visit made it very special.
Her style of reading murli left everyone amazed, entertainment and fulfilled. She read the murli in Hindi but translated and verbalised it on the spot in English. This gave non-Hindi speaking BKs a taste of the original version plus the English version. Murli classes were combined with stories from the yagya, her experience with the seniors and her journey into gyan.
Click here for detailed report in PDF format.
Professional Retreat "Living in the Eye of the Storm" with Br Charlie, Australia, 8-10 September
14 September 2017
Interfaith Event celebrated in Sydney, Australia
13 September 2017
5 September 2017: Global Light of Peace event was hosted by the Middle Way Meditation Institute (MMI) at Luna Park, Sydney, occurring simultaneously with six other international cities including New York, Rio de Janeiro, Bacelona, Mozambique and Iloilo City, Philippines.
The event included speakers and items from different religious and cultural backgrounds, including Sister Morni Chen from the Brahma Kumaris, who gave a short talk on inner peace.
BK Br Warren Carey also played the didgeridoo to bring everyone into meditation.
A World Peace meditation was led by Venerable Burin, Director of MMI at the same time as international participants online, as the event attempted to break the Guinness Book of Records for the most people meditating for World Peace worldwide online.
A small group of BKs enjoyed also the views of Sydney Harbour at night.
Sr Judy Johnson's Visit to Australia
13 September 2017
VISIT BY BK JUDY JOHNSON from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada to Australia
Between 24 July and 14 August 2017, Judy Johnson visited BK Centres in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia. She conducted workshops for BKs and gave talks for evening classes, which were enjoyed by all.
SYDNEY
Thu 27 July – Five Dock
At BK InnerSpace in Five Dock, Sydney, Judy presented to about 30 participants at the Spirituality Matters seminar series on The Dance of Change. She included four steps to help us dance with change...
I - soul
C - choose to change, concentrate, will (power)
A - activate image, actually see it
N - never mind distractions
bring in the
Divine
Observer
Sat 29 July – Blue Mountains Retreat Centre, Leura
Over 50 BKs participated in a day retreat on Vishnu Experience in the Confluence Age and discovered new ways of looking at differences between others in the gathering and the balancing of opposing energies within the self. Judy's lightness and her depth of understanding were appreciated by all.
Tue 8 August – East Sydney
Judy conducted a lunchtime meditation with Sr Conny at the city fringe meditation space.
Sat 12 August – Five Dock
Five interstate guests especially came for the Facilitation Training Skills for BKs, a half day program which introduced participants to contemporary creative ways of facilitating. Judy has many inspiring tools in her facilitation toolkit which not only assist people to understand spiritual concepts but to do this in an appealing modern way. All participants were very enthusiastic about these methods.
MELBOURNE
Wed 2 and Thu 3 August – Fitzroy and Sunshine West
Judy gave evening classes at the Centres on The Seven Secrets of the Universe and Dancing with Change. On the Friday she went to the retreat centre for a BK weekend retreat.
Fri-Sun 4-6 August – Centre for Spiritual Learning Peninsula
The Victorian family had a wonderful varied retreat with Sr Judy. This included a fun Friday night session on Oh the Places You’ll Go, a 1-day Facilitation Skills Training on Saturday, Vishnu in The Confluence Age experience on Saturday evening, and then an engaging interactive Murli churning experience on Sunday morning. Nearly 70 souls attended these retreats, and a wonderful family scene was experienced, with Sr Judy conducting much of the final Vishnu session with a child on her lap, providing a model of the inclusiveness she had cultivated throughout. This was followed by a youth retreat.
The themes of engagement, participation, and respect for different learning styles, and methods of participation throughout each of the programs built on each other and were valued by all. The Facilitation Skills Training was identified as a key training opportunity to support teachers in implementing the spirit of the new Core Curriculum, and for renewed efforts to enhance family cohesion within our BK community. It will provide a foundation for further training opportunities being planned by the Care and Wellbeing group, and Sr Judy has graciously indicated interest to come back to build on this in future years.
Margot Schofield (Fitzroy Centre)
Participant Experiences
The facilitators training and Vishnu stage conducted by Sr Judy was a real eye opener. It was a wonderful and fulfilling experience as many aspects were integrated, blending feeling and a deep understanding. Sr Judy was one to facilitate and not teach, all the time showing us how to do the same. The whole time with her was out of the box but also very structured, the blend of it making it a remarkable experience.
We started the Saturday with being open and present, important and initial steps for being a facilitator. An important method that stayed with me was that we must engage the intellect of those we deliver to, so then it becomes all about the experience. Through structured questioning, I was taken to reflect and come to understand what I was ready to open in my soul at the moment.
The whole time there were a lot of activities in groups designed to give a practical understanding of being a good facilitator. I especially liked the task of just being an observer and catching the vibrations of the one recounting their experience. These may have seemed just games but they were actually a valuable catalyst for self-analysis. With few words, Sr Judy was able to give an understanding of "Intention-based listening" as a very important aspect of being soul conscious. We were then led to the understanding that facilitating is an invisible path by which we are a guide supporting a creative process of learning, deepening and sharing. We were also given the steps and the questions to go with the steps.
The concluding part of the facilitator's session was a real finale as, again in groups, we realized how each of us experience and imbibe understanding differently according to our learning and personality styles. As groups, we realized how we were different and how important it is to allow people to learn without teaching, being mindful of these differences.
All in all, I felt that Sister Judy had a very easy way of letting me personally come to realize many deep points about myself, facilitating, the variety of souls amongst us, and about group dynamics. The whole experience was phenomenal."
Ali Reshamavala, (Doncaster Class Location)
“Oh the Places You’ll Go” - The Friday night’s session of watching a story narrated in a drawing form, and then discussing with a group out in a relaxed space, with a cup of coffee, stimulated our minds and engaged us for the weekend. All the activities were very nicely planned. Any discussion in a group or group expression (eg. Joy, love) was wonderful. The “Vishnu Experience” session and the handout gave clarity of my personality now and vision of becoming Vishnu. Hearty thanks to Sis. Judy. Kalpana Trivedi (Sunshine West)
Om shanti.
News from Tahiti Center
6 September 2017
Tahiti, French Polynesia, has had a house for BK service since February 2017. Up until then there had been activities but only during short stays.
In 2015, there was the inspiration that permanent service should be offered and since then, Drama made it possible together with the blessings from the divine family. We have a nice and big house in a quiet area of Papeete, the Capital.
There is still some sweetness left in these remote islands as if the big Pacific Ocean was dissolving the waves of darkness and heaviness of the world in general before they reach Tahiti. Still, people are very keen and open to spirituality, values and meditation. Many come and take benefit according to their needs and recognition through Raja Yoga courses, seminars, meditation and classes.
The large geographical distances from almost everywhere are balanced with the various means of technology and there is no feeling of loneliness or being far. Baba´s murli, brahmin culture and communications within the family make the distances disappear.
BK Patricia
New Center for Auckland, New Zealand
30 August 2017
Auckland BK Centre relocated after many years. It was with great excitement, anticipation and gratitude the keys for 156 Favona Road, Auckland were collected 11 July 2017.
The purchase of this property was the culmination of much investigation, planning and research and was made possible by many, many supporters.
The property is located a short distance from the South Western motorway, around 10 minutes from Auckland airport and 20 minutes from the central city.
The dwelling is sturdy 1960’s 3-bedroom home on a large, easily accessed site. The closest neighbours include a Buddhist monastery and the Tongan Methodist Church.
A capable Property Team in Auckland has worked on the procurement of the property and in the weeks and months ahead will continue to enhance the property with support of many helpers. Initial plans include relocating a large pre-fabricated classroom to the front of the property and installing additional toilet facilities. This will provide the main hall space connecting to hospitality areas inside the dwelling.
The NZ Board conveys their sincerest appreciation to each and every one who has contributed toward this project according to their capacity.
Asia Pacific Young Adult Retreat Welcomes Sr. Sheilu from Madhuban
29 August 2017
Beloved Respected Dadi Jankiji, Didi Nirmala and Jewels of Brahmin Family. Om Shanti and Loving Greetings from Bali Indonesia
On 28th to 31st July we welcomed Didi’s Sheilu of Madhuban to the Bali Retreat Centre for the Asia Pacific Young Adult Retreat 43 Youth from Asian countries attended the retreat with the theme “Being Naturally Spiritual”
For your enjoyment we present the following photos taken during the retreat
Below: Group photo taken at the rear of BRC - all the rest of the photos are of the Happy Youth (Young Adults) enjoying the retreat
Click here to view full report in photos.
BKs Celebrate India Independence Day in Bali, Indonesia
29 August 2017
At the Indian Consulate in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia.
BK Sister Janaki seen with Mr. R.O.Sunil Baba, Consul General of India in Bali during Independence Day of India at the Indian Consulate in Denpasar, Bali-Indonesia.
BK Sister Janaki seen with Mr. R.O.Sunil Baba, Consul General of India in Bali during Independence Day of India at the Indian Consulate in Denpasar, Bali-Indonesia.
Unfurling the Indian Flag is Consul General of India. Also seen in the picture is BK Sister Janaki.
Rakhi Programs in Sri Lanka with Kavitha Behan of Pondicherry
26 August 2017
Divine Family,
Here is the final compiled report Islandwide Rakhi celebration service report in Sri Lanka with Kavitha bhen.
In Baba's yaad
BK Ganesh
Sri Lanka
Rakhi celebration with Indian High Commissioner and Staff & Staff of ICC (Indian Cultural Ctr) Sri Lanka
23 August 2017
Divine Family,
Sister BK Kavitha of Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu served and tied Rakhi for VIPs/IPs in the Indian High Commision and Indian Cultural centre in Colombo city.
Here are the pictures of Rakhi celebrations with Indian High Commissioner H.E. Mr. Taranjit Singh and staff of Indian High Commission . Also the Director Ms. Rajashree and staff of Indian C ultural Centre in Colombo city.
In Baba's yaad
BK Ganesh
Sri Lanka
Br Letchu from Malaysia Visits Sri Lanka
2 August 2017
Click here for detailed report.
Didi Nirmala Visits Australia from 15 to 18 July
2 August 2017
Didi Dr Nirmala, regional coordinator of the Asia Pacific region, visited five cities in Australia, where her program included a national BK retreat, many BK classes, a few public talks and many personal meetings with BKs which gave a lot of spiritual sustenance. She was accompanied by Sr Sangita.
Melbourne
Australians always enjoy visits by the seniors especially when the whole family is gathered under one roof and receive sustenance from Didi Dr Nirmala. The Centre for Spiritual Learning – Peninsula (Baxter) hosted a national retreat for centre residents, board members and class location coordinators over four days from July 6 – 9, and a day program for all BKs on Sunday July 9. Brothers Charlie and Ken (visiting from Brazil) joined for the retreat and some of the Sunday program with Didi which saw a balance of classes combined with light-hearted fun.
The powerful retreat began with Didi’s session on the ‘Power of Touching and Catching’. A number of sessions over the next few days covered topics of ‘Silence’, ‘Overcoming arrogance and imbibing humility’, ‘Preparing for the future’, ‘being a Detached observer of drama, benevolent observer of others, honest observer of self ‘ and group talks and meetings with questions and answers. Participants who stayed after the retreat ended on Saturday evening enjoyed the extra Sunday classes. Sr Sona and Br Mohit from Abu Dhabi were also in Australia at the time and joined in the retreat, adding and international flavour.
The Baxter BK gathering celebrated the retreat centre’s 21st anniversary with Didi and the rest of the Melbourne Family on Sunday. Didi met the Hindi group and newer students had individual chats with her after lunch. She inaugurated the Centre’s new motor vehicle (a ute) on Monday morning with the traditional coconut breaking ceremony and tilak before taking leave to travel to Canberra.
Canberra
Mon 10 July: A program in the evening at the Centre on "Master of Balance" was well attended. As invariably with Didi's visits, some new people came to the Centre for the first time. The next day, there was a morning class followed by breakfast together and an inauguration with coconut cracking ceremony for one student’s new car. Sr Sangita also enjoyed her short stay and saw the ever enchanting kangaroos in the wild.
Brisbane
Tue 11 July: Didi's visit, whilst short and sweet, was all about BK sustenance. There was an exceptional turnout for a deep and well-rounded "something for everyone" class in the evening and a packed class the following morning. After a family breakfast sisters Sangita and Gurpreet were taken to picturesque Southbank by ferry where the public herb and vegetable gardens and the wonderful water features attracted great interest.
Gold Coast
Wed 12 - Thu 13 July am: At Gold Coast, one hour by car south of Brisbane, there was a large gathering for morning class with Didi and Sangita. Didi met personally with many BKs and asked after others who weren’t present. Everyone enjoyed her class and company. The main inspiration taken from her visit was ‘time is short, we never know what is going to happen so we should be aware of this and it should be reflected in our efforts.’ She also visited Tina, a BK of over 20 years who has now moved into a five star retirement village where all her needs are met. Didi remembered how Tina has helped so much over the years and she in return is now well looked after.
Sydney
Thu 13 – Tue 18 July: On the evening of 13 July at Five Dock Centre about 80 guests and BKs attended Didi’s evening talk on “The Essence of Things.” Sr Morni summarised her talk in a guided meditation experience and all were very happy to receive sweets and a blessing card.
After morning class at Five Dock on Friday, Didi went to the Blue Mountains retreat centre where the BKs were pleased to see her as she was not able to visit last year. Being mid-Winter, the weather was cold (max. temperature of 9 deg C) but Didi gave an inspiring class, had personal meetings, lunch and a tour of the property before returning to Sydney.
The weekend was busy with meeting Class Location coordinators and teachers, personal meetings with individuals, classes and meditations on both Saturday and Sunday evenings followed by supper. Meanwhile, Sangita enjoyed sightseeing including a visit to the beach, a tour of the city by car and a trip to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge by ferry.
On Monday morning, Didi went to the Illawarra retreat centre for morning class and breakfast and to see the newly built additional outdoor dining area which features a wood-fired pizza oven.
Didi joined a Board meeting in the evening and left after class on Tuesday morning to return to Gyan Sarovar. Didi is stable, clean and clear and many things were addressed with her mature, wise counsel. She especially knows the background of service in Australia and most of the BKs, so it was wonderful to have her presence - so much so that she has been asked to visit twice a year!
Download report in PDF format here.
Sr Judy Johnson's (Canada) Visit to Malaysia
2 August 2017
Br. Ken's Visit to Malaysia - News Report
19 July 2017
Service News from Singapore for June 2017
18 July 2017
Sr. Sapna invited to Public Welfare Camp in Guangzhou, China
26 June 2017
BK Sister Sapna was invited to conduct a session on Healing Power of Meditation and Emotional Intelligence in a large public welfare camp organised by a Spiritual Research and Healing Centre that conducts spiritual seminars all over China.
The camp was organised at three main cities of Guangdong province of South China. Thousands of souls participated and Sister Sapna was invited to all the three places (Guangzhou, Foshan and Shenzen)
Guangzhou: The session was conducted on Healing power of Meditation for 1500 participants
Shenzen : The session on Emotional Intelligence & Spiritual Intelligence was conducted for about 1300 people
Foshan : The session on Meditation & Inner Strength was conducted for about 1200 people
It was a great chance to give a spiritual message to many souls.
Dr. BK Shrimant Kumar's Visit to Singapore
26 June 2017
Divine Family,
We were truly thrilled to have with us respected brothers Dr BK Shrimant Kumar, Diabetologist and Holistic Care Physician at Global Hospital and Research Centre, Mount Abu and BK Surendar Bhai, Reception Office, Madhuban joining the Singapore family for a short and productive visit.
As health topics are on trend in Singapore currently, promoting Dr Shrimant’s health talk started a month before his whirlwind visit, and not surprisingly we received overwhelming registrations for the talk. 139, including 39 newcomers, attended the talk. Many were captivated by the simple yet informative talk that Dr Shrimant delivered with such eloquent expertise that stems from him being an authority of knowledge in this field. There were many who signed up for the Raja Yoga course at the end of the talk attesting for the success of the programme.
To add feather to the crown, on the next day both brothers shared their wonderful experiences of BK life and spiritual journey with the divine family. Nothing is more inspiring than to hear real-life experiences of Madhuban residents.
Though their visit was very short, leaving us thirsting to hear more, the benefit many souls extracted from their presence is immeasurable.
We wish them good health, wealth, happiness and success in their every step.
In Baba's yaad
BK Bharti
Singapore
Sister Beena from Chennai Visits Bali - Service News
19 June 2017
Bali was once again blessed with the visit of BK Sister Beena. BK Sister Beena visited all the centres in Bali and every BK was pleased to hear her classes which were clear, simple and inspirational. Her classes were based on her own experiences and learnings and this made her classes very practical and motivational.
Everyone was happy to see Sister Beena’s enthusiasm and listen to her classes which inspired each and every one.
Thank you Baba, Drama, Dadi, Didi, seniors and family for all the lovely drama in Bali.
Warmest regards
IBY
BK Janaki
BK Sister Beena and BK Sister Janaki seen with part of Denpasar family.
Time for receiving tolis. BK Sister Beena seen handing tolis to BKs.
BK Sister Beena – addressing the BK family in Denpasar. To her right is BK Sister Janaki.