BAPS Children’s Forum, UK organised aSatsang-themed weekend of educational and spiritual activities for over 170 children at Condover Hall, Shropshireduringthe Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Condover Hall is a residential activity centre hosting a variety of fun and educational activities. The trip was designed toincrease various skills among children and to allow them to grow in their Satsang in a challenging yet enjoyable way. This followed a leadership retreat for volunteers held earlier in March.

The children departed BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on the morning of Friday 29 March and were met by volunteers upon arrival at Condover Hall. After being introduced to the thematic activities to come, small groups were taken for a tour of the vast complexbefore everyone participated in an energising sports session.

Morning spiritual activities throughout the long weekend were strengthened through collective prayers and group discussions on spiritual topics such as niyam-dharma, the importance of daily rituals, and Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s care for children.

Various recreational activities, which included climbing, ‘buggy building’ and tunnelling,while encouraging communication, cooperation and coordination, were also given spiritual themes helping the children relate to and enhance their Satsang values and principles. The children also learned and harnessed many new skills, including firstaid. Group leaders were on hand throughout to provide support and encouragement.

Overall, the children thoroughly enjoyed the trip, making new friends,learning new skills, overcoming fears, and strengthening their spirituality.