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Entitled “Pillars
of Faith”, special shibirs were organized for balaks and balikas
of Australasia in the presence of six BAPS sadhus. The shibir focused
on two pillars that help to strengthen faith in God.
The shibirs were held
separately in three locations – Auckland, Sydney, and Perth. Dates
and attendance figures are as follows:
Location |
Total |
Date
attendance |
Auckland |
December 30-31, 2004 |
125 |
Sydney |
January 8-9, 2005 |
50 |
Perth |
January 20-21, 2005 |
28 |
The shibir was organized
by the sadhus with the assistance of the bal karyakars from each of
the local mandals. Through lectures by sadhus, group discussions, workshops,
games, and audiovisual presentations, the children and youth learned
a great deal. Many took vows to give up meat, bow down to their parents,
study harder, start regular satsang reading, and more.
The topic of the first
day was Satsang. It gave balaks and balikas an introduction to the importance
of Satsang in their lives as well as teaching them the basics of Satsang.
Balaks and balikas learned about arti, thal, dandavats, darshan, and
seva. They then took part in activities and games which reinforced these
concepts. They also learned about basic niyams such as daily puja, ekadashi,
tilak-chandlo, bowing down to parents and the importance of ghar sabha.
The topic of the second
day was Sanskar. The first session taught balaks and balikas the importance
of being the best in both studies and satsang. Attendees also discussed
the obstacles to becoming the best. After a session of practical service,
balaks and balikas learned about the need for service in one’s
life. They also learned about why one should be a pure vegetarian, avoiding
meat, seafood, eggs, onions, and garlic.
On both days, attendees
took part in activities and sports such as board games, soccer, and
cricket.
Everyone felt the shibir was a memorable and motivating experience. |
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