Om Cafe: New Eyes for the New Year (workshop and meditation) for Young Adults

16 January 2021

A unique, creative, interactive workshop that will explore a selected spiritual topic within a cafe-style setting. For adults aged 18-35 years.

Sunday, 17 January 2021 from 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm AEST.

 

What is Om Café?

A unique, creative, and interactive workshop that explores a particular topic relating to the practice of spirituality, the mind, virtues, and positive qualities, and meditation. Sessions are held within a cafe-style setting to create a fun, relaxing, and safe atmosphere.

 

Om Cafe is run by Brahma Kumaris Brisbane. We are a not-for-profit organisation teaching meditation, you can read more on who we are further below.

 

How does the session run?

The session begins with a brief introduction to the topic. It is then followed by a series of thought-provoking questions that guide discussion and focus groups on the practical application of the topic in daily life. This is then followed by a guest speaker who will share deeper insights and personal experiences on the topic. There are also short meditations throughout the session.

 

Who can attend?

Om Café is for young adults ages 18-35 years. Individuals across all levels of experience can take benefit from this, from newcomers to experienced meditators and anyone with an interest in positive thinking, or the use of spiritual understanding to navigate life’s challenges.

 

Please note:

• This event is for young adults ages 18-35 years.
• While beverages will be available at the venue, it is requested that food is not to be brought to this event, thank you for your understanding.
• Registration is required for this event as places are limited due to Covid restrictions.
• Bookings are open from 14th December.

 

We hope to see you there!

Click here to register.

 

By Brahma Kumaris Brisbane.

 

 

 

 

January Newsletter from the Brahma Kumaris Centre for Spiritual Learning, The Illawarra

8 January 2021

Greetings one and all!
We are all enjoying a cooler Summer this year, such a contrast from last summer!
Realising our 'place' in the world, finding inspirations for appreciation in the observance of the seasons turning, the consciousness rising, the wisdom deepening: a trustee of human kindness ...becoming an 'embodiment of the awareness of attainments' of a spiritual being, makes one a Jewel of Contentment

Sunday 17 January.....from 3 pm to 6 pm
Meditation for the World:
Facilitating the Transition - shaping our world with awareness and attention.
Please join us with our Special guest Chanah Wainer has worked as a high school teacher since 2011. Having worked in a diverse range of school settings, with students spanning the full spectrum of learning abilities, she more recently left the classroom to focus on postgraduate research and immerse herself more fully in her passion for Learning Sciences!

https://bookwhen.com/bkaillawarra/e/ev-sjg3-20210117150000
                                                                        ***
Upcoming Weekend Retreats

plus, coming up in January;   22 - 24
                       Kim and Heather are here again for a weekend retreat
                              The Healing Power of Sacred Music
Kim Cunio and Heather Lee teach and facilitate a retreat where we study the jewels of sacred music,  break into groups to also make and interpret music.  The third in this series, participants love the opportunity to listen to music in sacred contemplation, helping to heal any 'wounds';
the healing that manifests through divine sacred expression.
                                                                      ***
January 29 – 31      The Mirror of Peace  

Look into the mirror of your heart and rediscover the unconditional peace that resides deep within your soul. By emerging this experience you will become the mirror that reflects pure peace back into this peaceless world.

https://bookwhen.com/bkaillawarra/e/ev-szs1-20210129000000
                                                                      ***
February 5 - 7     Emotional Empowerment.
This retreat explores the fullness of our emotional landscape. We will focus on emotional empowerment.
By knowing that I can choose what I think, therefore, what I feel, and how I frame my experiences into creating my future. The retreat will be supported with gentle meditation experiences.
https://bookwhen.com/bkaillawarra/e/ev-sedb-20210205000000
                                                                      ***
Soon we are hosting a retreat in Spanish!!

February 12 – 14    La espiritualidad un camino para liberarte del miedo
(Spirituality - a way to free yourself from fear)
En este curso aprenderás a liberarte del miedo, practicando la meditación. La gran mayoría de los problemas y sufrimientos que experimentamos en nuestra vida son creados por nuestra mente. Por lo tanto, es muy importante que aprendamos a identificar la raíz de todos ellos. Practicando meditación profundizamos nuestro poder espiritual encontrando un camino para liberarte del miedo.

https://bookwhen.com/bkaillawarra/e/ev-s5av-20210212000000

                                                                      ***
*The Brahma Kumaris Introductory Meditation Course *
                   Mon 25 January   6:30 pm - 8 pm
                                           or
                   Tue 26  January  10 am - 11:30 am    
Please book here:  https://brahmakumaris.org.au/illawarra-meditation-retreats/
There are a few retreats coming up, and we are trying to allow some new people to attend, as places are still limited. There is a Waiting List, which seems long sometimes but often our retreats still end up not being full, as often people forget or make other plans.

With kind regards,
from the 'Wilton Centre Team'

Please click here for some of our recent BK classes on YouTube

 

 

Blue Mountains Retreat Centre February Programs

6 January 2021

Dear friends,
Greetings of peace and joy and welcome to 2021.

May you and your families be blessed with good health, peace, love and happiness.
We look forward to your company.

Warmest greetings,
Sally and the Leura family

 

Intermediate Raja Yoga Meditation Course online

@online for four weekly sessions

2nd February 2021 @ 11.00am - 12.30pm

For those who have attended the Introduction to Raja Yoga Meditation. The course will cover more deeply the philosphy and practise of Raja Yoga meditation.

Book Now

 

 

Introduction to Raja Yoga Meditation Weekend Retreat

@ Blue Mountains Retreat Centre

Friday 5th Feb 2021 - 6:30pm until

Sunday 7th Feb 2021 - 2:00pm

I In this course we will learn about the types of thoughts we have, our spiritual identity, soul consciousness, the Supreme Soul and the law of karma.

Book Now

 

The Meditative Gardener-   Weekend Retreat

@ Blue Mountains Retreat Centre

Friday 5th Feb 2021 - 6:30pm until

Sunday 7th Feb 2021 - 2:00pm

For those who have attended the Introduction to Raja Yoga Meditation. Gardening in itself can be a meditative experience, however during this retreat you will learn empowerment through meditation while gardening. Book Now

 

Introductory Raja Yoga Meditation-  Weekend Retreat

@ Blue Mountains Retreat Centre

Friday 12th Feb 2021 - 6:30pm until

Sunday 14th Feb 2021 - 2:00pm

In this course we will learn about the types of thoughts we have, our spiritual identity, soul consciousness, the Supreme Soul and the law of karma. 

Book Now

 

Don't Get Mad Get Wise-   Day Program

@ Blue Mountains Retreat Centre

Thursday 25th Feb 2021 - 10:00am - 4.00pm

During this day program we will learn how to get wise rather than falling into an old habit of anger that takes away our happiness.

Book Now

 

Living a Raja Yoga Lifestyle-  Weekend Retreat

@ Blue Mountains Retreat Centre

Friday 26th Feb 2021 - 6:30pm until

Sunday 28th Feb 2021 - 2:00pm

For those who have completed the Intermediate retreat and wish to embark on a more spiritual lifestyle. Book Now

 

 

The Brahma Kumaris - Sydney (5 Dock) - Programs in January 2021

5 January 2021

 

Spirituality Matters - Generating Self-Love

7 January @7:00 - 8:30pm

by Monika Kalra
We all like to Love others and be Loved by others. We cannot love others unless we love ourselves

Book Now

 

Spirituality Matters - New Beginnings

14 January @7:00 - 8:30pm
by Christine Donehue & Lata Bhat
The start of a new year is a great time to reflect upon and rediscover ourselves

Book Now

 

 

Spirituality Matters - The Greatness of Humility
21 January @7:00 - 8:30pm
by Helen Chapman
Find out more about the rewards of making humility an important part of your life.

Book Now

 

 

Spirituality Matters - The Revolutionary Self
28 January @7:00 - 8:30pm
by Jude Pemell
Explore the current climate of chaos, and the consciousness of change that is really directing the drama.

Book Now

 

 

 

Positive Thinking Evening Course (starts the first Tuesday of every month)

5 January @7:00– 8:30pm

The Mind is our most valuable asset. This popular course will provide insights into the power of thought and the power to choose our attitudes and perspectives to empower the self and improve any situation in life.

Book Now

 

BK Meditation Introductory

Course (starts on first Wednesday of the month)

6 January @7:00 - 8:30pm

This is an interactive introduction to the practice and philosophy of BK Meditation.

Book Now

 

BK Meditation Introductory Course

(starts on first Saturday of the month)

9 January @10:00 – 11:30am

This is an interactive introduction to the practice and philosophy of BK Meditation. This lays the foundation for ongoing spiritual development.

Book Now

 

 

iBeing online book club

23 January, 6:30pm - 8:00pm (AEDT).
ibeing online bookclub hosted by Perth

Register to receive a password at: https://forms.gle/Tv98U4YjVR8dZJiWA

 

 

Asia Pacific NCCC Centre Residents and Board Online Retreat

5 January 2021

The 3-day retreat on the theme “Self-Empowerment & Subtle Sustenance”  registered 209 participants from 5 Languages (Tamil, Chinese, Indonesian, Korean, and Thai). The retreat hosted by Brahma Kumaris Malaysia started with welcoming by MC, BK Celia Wong from Malaysia, and BK Peter Clark from Australia.

The session was opened with a welcome song by BK Harman from Australia followed by the introduction of the retreat aim and objectives by BK Charlie. Then the Design team and all the countries (each country’s participants) were introduced to BK Dr. Nirmala prior to her class on “Effort for the Current Time” followed by guided evening meditation.

The second day started at 3.30 am with optional online Amrit Vela and the 4.00 am session was coordinated by the Brahma Kumaris Philippines. Murli class was read by BK Charlie and the session was shared on a different Zoom link for the students from the Asia Pacific region. Around 500 students joined the morning Murli class with 5 languages translated. A special class after the Murli was given by BK Charlie to the retreat participants on “As an instrument, what is the awareness that will build unity in the family.”

The morning session was a Spiritual Conversation on the topic “One Strength One Support” with BK Ganesh (Sri Lanka), BK Bhavana (New Zealand), and BK Jacqui (Australia), moderated by BK Judy (Canada). After a short break, BK Asha from Delhi, ORC, gave a class on “Running A Centre at the End Times” followed by a Q&A session.

The evening one-hour Yoga Bhatti was coordinated by Sri Lanka with Bapdada’s Drill and Live Commentary. The bhatti was followed by Class by BK Gayatri from New York on the topic “Maintaining Spiritual Friendship with Everyone” followed by a Q&A session.

The third day started at 3.30 am with a special online audio-video Amrit Vela session coordinated by BK Celia. Murli class was read by BK Dr. Nirmala from Gyan Sarovar and the session was shared on a different Zoom link for the students from the Asia Pacific region. Around 500 students joined the morning Murli class zoom link with 5 languages translated. A special class after the Murli was given by BK Dr. Nirmala to the retreat participants on “Mansa Seva” (Service through the mind).

The morning session was a Workshop by BK Trish (Vietnam) on the theme: “Creating Yuktis ( methods ) for Zeal & Enthusiasm.” This session had breakout rooms for participants to share among themselves a few times.

The session ended at noon and was continued by the early evening 4.00 pm Q&A session with BK Pure (Malaysia) and BK Morni (Taiwan) moderated by BK Letchu (Malaysia). This session was followed by a Q&A with Didi Dr. Nirmala by BK Peru.

The session was followed by a 45-minute Yoga Bhatti with live commentary on the “Bodiless stage” by BK Maureen Cannon from Australia. Three participants (Pavitra – Korea, Sen – Vietnam and Merle – Philippines) shared their retreat experiences. This was followed by a unique Blessing session where each participant viewed their individual blessing by name displayed during the 7.00 pm to 7.30 pm meditation.

The blessing session was continued with a short sharing by BK Gayatri from New York.

BK Mohini Didi from New York gave a Class and meditation experience on the  “Power of Silence for Self Empowerment”.

The retreat was concluded by closing remarks and meditation by BK Meera from Malaysia.

 

 

 

New Year Greetings from Sri Lanka

5 January 2021

 

 

New Year Greetings from China

5 January 2021

Dear Divine family,

Wishing brothers and sisters of Divine family a very happy new year 2021.

In remembrance of The One,

Bk Sapna and Brahmin family, 

Guangzhou and Shanghai, China

china.rajyoga@yahoo.com

 

 

Greetings of Love from Mongolia Family

1st January 2021

W mn.brahmakumaris.org 

 

Online Christmas Celebrations by Touch The Light Group in China

31 December 2020

China: Touch the Light group, the youth wing of Brahma Kumaris China organised an online Christmas celebration for children and their parents. It was a unique celebration including value activities conducted by BK sisters, a Christmas story and a very special personal blessing for each participant at the end of the celebration from Santa … The 'Touch the Light' team in China has been conducting weekly online sessions for children during the whole year of 2020, under the guidance of BK Sister Sapna.

 

 

2021 Greetings from Singapore

29 December 2020

 

 

Watch the Replay: “A Celebration: Hearts Open to the World”

27 December 2020

Click on the below image to watch the replay [1:47:20]

BK Jayanti Karpalani takes center stage in an online conversation title “A Celebration: Hearts Open to the World” on Tuesday, Dec. 15. Kirpalani was a guest speaker during a public program held in Makati last year.

Brahma Kumaris online series finale to tackle human interconnectedness as upheld in a papal encyclical.

“HARMONY is the original state of humanity. This is why we long for it and work hard to find or create it. If there were no memory of that state of mind, there would be no sense of something missing in our world at this time. And if harmony is natural to man, then we need to consider why it is not currently the norm.”

 

With the above viewpoint, that she has expounded in a wide range of forums—from cultural traditions to climate change, Jayanti Kirpalani, European director of Brahma Kumaris takes center stage with Bishop Joel “Bong” Z. Baylon of Legaspi City in an online conversation, “A Celebration: Hearts Open to the World” on Tuesday, Dec. 15.

 

The conversation will be anchored on what BK Sister Jayanti also considers “the seed of harmony, and what enables us to create structures and practices that sustain it.”

 

Papal encyclical

Bishop Baylon is expected to align her perspective with “Fratelli Tutti,” Pope Francis’ third encyclical published in early October. An emphatic plea to reject wars and “globalized indifference” through fraternity and solidarity, it proposes an ideal world of brotherhood in which all countries can be part of a “larger human family.”

 

An advocate of global unity herself, Vice President Leni Robredo, a special participant will reiterate her position on human interconnectedness, which she has stressed in recent public addresses, should germinate at the country level.

 

“Hearts Open to the World” is the 31st and this year’s final episode of the “Lusog-Diwa” (mental health) conversations hosted by Brahma Kumaris Philippines’ wellbeing initiative, “Pause Muna, Peace Muna” (PMPM). Brahma Kumaris is a United Nations Peace Messenger Awardee.

 

With the umbrella theme “Thriving in Covid-19,” the online exchanges seek to help individuals, institutions, and sectors cope with pandemic anxieties. The series was launched in May and is held every Tuesday via Zoom and FB live streaming.

 

Merle Pimentel, the PMPM coordinator, explains the finale’s thrust: “Our interconnectedness has never been more real; realizing its value has never been more urgent. Now, more than ever, we should think, act—and love—as one.”

 

‘Every storm passes’

In a recent message to his diocese, Bishop Baylon noted that the five latest typhoons to hit the province made his “fellow Albayanos” wonder “why all that had to happen, (when we are) already reeling from a worldwide pandemic.” These things are almost impossible to explain,” he said. “But in our hearts, we know that every storm passes, every disaster ends. Let us reach out to one another.”

 

BK Jayanti points out: “Within every human tradition, there is a concept of paradise, utopia, or golden age—a world of peace, love and happiness, a time when human beings lived in harmony with one another and with nature. What has happened that we’ve come so far from that? How can we return to that natural state?”

 

Pre-COVID, in another gathering, BK Jayanti was asked about harmony and spiritual brotherhood. Her responses inadvertently described current conditions.

 

Why should human beings bother to reach out to one another when technology, while superficially bringing us together, has strangely made an island out of every person?

 

As spiritual beings, we are not supposed to exist in isolation. We are connected through an eternal bond with the Divine, the Parent of us all, and the source of all that is highest in human nature. When we connect with this perfect reference point, we also experience a deep and fulfilling connection with each other.

 

How does individual self-awareness benefit the world as a whole?

There is a continuum that works on the spiritual level and also manifests in the material world: “Our awareness defines our attitude. Our attitude colors our vision. Our vision dictates our actions. Our actions shape our culture. Our culture creates the world.”

 

If it is our nature to look at others as brothers, why is it sometimes difficult to show that we care?

 

Dadi Prakashmani, former head of Brahma Kumaris, once told me, “Only a powerful soul can offer love. Only a powerful soul can be humble. If we are weak, we become selfish; if we are empty, we take. But if we are full, we automatically give to all.”

 

Doesn’t self-respect dictate that we avoid certain types of people?

Harmony is the fruit and also the seed of true self-respect—self-respect that comes from knowing our true identity, our innate goodness and value, and our capacity to make a positive contribution. Quite independent of status, circumstances, or skills, harmony is the ease and contentment, combined with a quiet authority that comes from living with sincerity and integrity and relating to others and nature with respect, benevolence, and care.

 

Over 3,000 invited viewers from the government, church, school, business, and NGO sectors, as well as Brahma Kumaris students around the world witnessed “A Celebration: Hearts Open to the World” on December 15, 2020, starting at 7 p.m. Streamed live;

 

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/HeartsOpenToTheWorld

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PauseMunaPeaceMuna

 

 

 

Season's Greetings from Hong Kong

26 December 2020

Dear Global Family – Baba’s Sparkling Angels, Om shanti.

May Baba’s Love & Blessings keep you safe & sound, Happy & Healthy.

 

BK Rohini

National Coordinator

National Coordinating Office

W: www.brahmakumaris.org

F: https://www.facebook.com/rajayogahk/

 

 

The Art of Play - Day Retreat for Teachers

26 December 2020

Dear friends,

Greetings of peace and joy.

 

On Saturday 23 January 2021, we will have a special Day Retreat for Teachers, 10am - 4pm.

 

If you are a teacher and would like to attend this retreat, please book on this link:

 

  https://bookwhen.com/bkabluemountains/e/ev-sm46-20210123100000

 

If you know any teachers who may like to attend this retreat, they are also welcome to book.

 

The day retreat will take place in the beautiful Stone Cottage.

Please book as soon as possible, as numbers are strictly limited.

 

Warmest wishes,

Sally

 

 

 

Xmas greetings from NewZealand

26 December 2020

 

 

Happy Christmas & New Year Video from Br Charlie, Sr Sally and the Blue Mountains Team, Australia

26 December 2020

Dear friends

We have made a video to wish you all season's greetings.

 

Please click here to watch it:   https://youtu.be/W87YpFUKyME

 

We look forward to seeing you in 2021.

 

warm regards

Sally and the Blue Mountains Team

 

 

 

Christmas Blessings from Indonesia

24 December 2020

To Baba's world family,

Please see our Christmas Message here.

 

From Baba’s Indonesian Service

Sister Janaki and Brother Frank

 

 

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year 2021- From Meera Didi, Bro Letchu & the Malaysian Family

21 December 2020

Dearest Divine BK World Family,

 

Wishing you and all  "Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year 2021".

Please click on the below image to play our message. [1:16]

 

Lots of Love,

In Baba's Sweet Yaad

Meera Didi, Bro Letchu & Malaysian Family

 

 

 

 

Malaysia ARC - First Asia Pacific 2020 Online Retreat Pictorial Report

16 December 2020

Click here to download full report.

 

 

Join our ZOOM gathering for Peace on Sunday 20 Dec. at 11:00 am (AEDT)

16 December 2020

On Sunday 20 December, from 11:00 am - 12:00 noon, we will gather online for the last Meditation for World Peace program of 2020. Please find below, the Zoom meeting link to join.

Our gathering this month will feature Rev Dr Stephanie Dowrick, Rev Dr Kim Cunio and Charlie Hogg. There will be a short talk on the special theme of 'Stillness' and we will meditate together sending positive, peace-filled vibrations to our world. It is in stillness that we capture and experience the vibrations of love and kindness...and it is this that is so needed in our world right now.

In what has no doubt been a transformative year for all of us, this is a good opportunity to have powerful meditation collectively. We look forward to having you join us online.

We will start promptly at 11:00 am AEST. Your microphones will be muted during the talk and meditation - but there will be an opportunity at the end to see & hear from you, enjoy a sense of community, and share well wishes for the holiday season as we close out the year.

 

Join Zoom Meeting [Starts at 11:00 am AEST - ideally join us a few minutes ahead]  

https://anu.zoom.us/j/349031495?pwd=T1VDN29JQnV1TDhWemM4MXE0dkRiZz09

Meeting ID: 349 031 495
Password: 550568

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        +61 3 7018 2005 Australia
        +61 8 7150 1149 Australia
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Meeting ID: 349 031 495
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~ Om Shanti. Greetings of Peace. ~

 

 

 

“Celebrating Our Mountains” – A Meditation in Honour of UN International Mountain Day

14 December 2020

FRIDAY 11 DECEMBER @ 7.00 pm AEDT  (eastern Australia time)

We invite you to join us in a special meditation to celebrate our mountains. This is a 40-minute meditation in honour of UN International Mountain Day 2020. We will be sending vibrations of support to nature, the people who dwell in the mountains, and to those who are helping to build and sustain the biodiversity of the mountains.

Mountains are natural jewels. They are home to 15% of the world´s population and host about half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. They provide fresh water for everyday life to half of humanity. Their conservation is a key factor for sustainable development and is part of Goal 15 of the SDGs.

As the global climate continues to warm, mountain people, some of the world’s poorest, face even greater struggles to survive. The rising temperatures also mean that mountain glaciers are melting at unprecedented rates, affecting freshwater supplies downstream for millions of people. This problem affects us all.

You can join in on youtube @ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9m68fsTcB8U&feature=youtu.be

 

 

“Taking care of yourself” : Webinar for Doctors and Nurses in Changsha, China

14 December 2020

Guangzhou (China): BK Sapna was invited by the Hospital of the People’s republic of China in Changsha (Capital of Hunan province of China) to conduct a webinar for Doctors and Nurses on the theme “Taking care of yourself”.

There was a very good response from everyone and in the feedback on the session they requested for regular online meditation sessions for the staff every month.