The UK Bal-Balika Mandal organised a national Winter Training Camp at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London over the long weekend from Friday 20 December to Sunday 22 December 2013.
Titled ‘Satsang Karo ne Karavo’, the camp served as an opportunity for 40 children from around the country to develop and enhance new knowledge and skills from experienced individuals.
Sadhus delivered insightful presentations on a number of subjects touching on the tireless efforts of the Guru Parampara, including Shastriji Maharaj who established the Sanstha and Pramukh Swami Maharaj who continues to advance it. Accounts of inspirational devotees who have remained steadfast and who continue to serve despite challenging circumstances provided further motivation and insight.
Remaining connected to Swamishri was an important focus, as was the principle of seva gleaned from the exemplary life of Bhagatji Maharaj. The integral role of the mandir was also discussed which helped to foster a sense of ownership.
In addition to the classroom sessions, a variety of workshops were also held where youths studying at university were invited to share their experiences of seva and maintaining Satsang in college and university life.
One of the memorable highlights of the camp was the outing on Saturday evening, when delegates participated in a group activity to enhance their teamwork and communication skills.
The final day of the camp served as an induction for new volunteers. It was designed to convey useful information as well as provide the necessary skillset to become an effective volunteer. The hands-on training was delivered to the delegates using innovative and interactive methods.
In the concluding session, Manoharmurti Swami delivered an inspirational presentation on how to implement the new skills and knowledge the young trainees had acquired to better their personal and spiritual lives as well as to serve others.
As a memento, the delegates were awarded certificates to confirm they had completed a three-day course on teamwork and voluntary services.
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