Gathering celebrates with Jains honoring Nonviolence in body, mind and the world

The continuing excitement at GOL was evident this past Sunday when we celebrated Mahaveer Jayanti; from the Jain tradition. We began by adding Mahaveer to our altar. All were invited to pay respects.

We continued with our traditional opening and sang Come and Fill this Temple.

After invoking the four directions with Jain traditions, and relaxing with the Preksha meditation, we chantedOM PARAMATMA NAMO NAMAH MAHAVEER SWAMI NAMO NAMAH" "MAHAVEER MAHAVEER MAHAVEER BOLO VEER MAHAVEER MAHAVEER"Thanks to the work of Ila Vora.

We then prayed the Namokar Mantra led by Rev Annie and Joyti Shah. Our connection deepened.

We had 6 presentations! Jains at recent papal visit. Thanks to Dr Girish Shah and Arvind Vora who narrated it.

Mr Jayant Sanghavi gave an ingenuous rendition on Jainism and Mankind in Modern World

Ms Nivea Kothari related a spirited and reverent story of Mahaveer and his teachings.

Dr. Panna Shah's informative discourse about Jainism and our World explained how Jain principles have been supporting compassionate action towards the earth long before we were in such need to heal our planet.

Professor Mahendra Shah presented a wonderful powerpoint on The Virtues of Jainism

Mr Arvind Vora concluded with a poignant discussion on Anekantvada (multiplicity of beliefs) and pointed out that this very celebration was an example of this important Jain principle. We need all viewpoints to understand the whole.

All who attended were captivated and profoundly touched by all our honored speakers and by the inspiring singing of Joyti Shah.

Our sincerest gratitude to all who attended and participated. Plans for a grander celebration are under way for next year!

Multifaith Passover Seder a Success!

All who attended easily agreed that this year's Seder was terrific!

Ronna and Cathy worked hard organizing the menu. Bill Turner made sure we had a delicious Kosher turkey and krugel. Even those who could not attend at the last minute sent food!!

Rev Annie and Rev JoAnn led a Seder that was community focused. All participated sharing their stories and reading the Passover Story. Thanks to Tracy for a great reading of the four questions!

Unfortunately Newsday called the GOL phone at 6 PM and asked to come down and take a picture but we were in the middle of our Haggadah! Next year in Newsday!