EL CAMINO DE JESÚS por Sri Sathya Sai Baba

EL CAMINO DE JESÚS

 

por Sri Sathya Sai Baba

 

Navidad, 25/12/1979

 

Hay cuatro tipos de personas: las que ven únicamente lo bueno en todas partes; las que, menos espirituales en su visión, miran lo bueno como bueno y lo malo como malo; las que cierran sus ojos a lo bueno y ven únicamente lo malo; y, finalmente, las peores de todas, aquellas que incluso a lo bueno lo juzgan malo. Nadie trae riqueza cuando nace ni se la lleva al morir. Cualquier riqueza que uno acumule debe compartirse libremente con otros. Las flores esparcen fragancia, los árboles ofrecen frutos en abundancia. En vez de aprender las lecciones que ellos enseñan, el hombre anda en pos de los caprichos de sus sentidos y ambiciona fama y autoridad sobre otros. El contento es la mayor y más preciada riqueza; la codicia trae desdicha. Sólo el contento tiene la virtud de llevar al hombre hacia la meta de su vida, la Divinidad.

 

Un corazón tierno es más valioso que todas las posesiones materiales. Cuando se adquiere excelencia moral y espiritual, se hace patente lo divino en el hombre. Vishwamitra era un gran rey, orgulloso de su poder y de la vastedad de su reino. Quiso vencer al sabio Vashistha pero no tuvo éxito. De esa manera aprendió la lección de que los poderes físicos, materiales y mentales son demasiado débiles para conquistar el poder divino. Así, emprendió la disciplina espiritual para limpiar su mente de ira, codicia y envidia. Como resultado, se volvió sabio. Los hermanos Kauravas, cien eran ellos, se embriagaron de codicia aunque ya poseían riquezas en abundancia y un vasto reino; pelearon con sus primos, los Pandavas, sólo cinco temerosos de Dios y conducidos por Él. Al final, los Kauravas se destruyeron a sí mismos hasta el último hombre y los Pandavas fueron bendecidos con la victoria. El hombre debe adquirir dominio sobre los impulsos impuros de su mente: lujuria, ira, odio, celos; sólo entonces estará en posibilidad de gozar de la paz divina que es su derecho de nacimiento.

 

El hombre ha venido a este mundo como mensajero de Dios. Jesús se anunció como tal. Pasó muchos años en austeridad a fin de poder derramar compasión y amor sobre toda la humanidad. Después, se preguntó: "¿Soy sólo un mensajero o estoy más estrechamente relacionado con Dios, siendo también una parte de Dios con lo divino como esencia?" Pasó doce largos años errando solo por los desiertos dedicado a esta indagación. Al final de ese período, retornó entre los hombres y anunció que era el hijo de Dios.

 

En esa época, los sacerdotes de Jerusalén se habían vuelto corruptos y venales. Habían degenerado en hombres soberbios y egoístas. Jesús los condenó y trató de arrancar de raíz las costumbres perniciosas. Puesto que a sus ojos todas las formas eran divinas, Él no podía tolerar ninguna acción que contradijera esa postura. Así, cuando la gente le preguntaba quién era tenía la convicción para responder: "Mi Padre y yo somos uno". Trató de enseñar a cada uno la paternidad de Dios y la hermandad del hombre. Hombres tradicionalistas y llenos de egoísmo consideraron a Jesús un falso profeta y emplearon todos los medios para impedir su misión. Sin embargo Él no vaciló y, enfrentando toda oposición continuó siendo ejemplo de la verdad viviente purificando a la sociedad. Muchos discípulos lo siguieron, pero a lo largo de la historia, como ha ocurrido con Rama, Krishna, Jesús y Mahoma, esos discípulos, pese a su cercanía, raramente se han consagrado por completo. Jesús tuvo doce discípulos, la mayoria tuvieron fe en Él y vivieron Sus enseñanzas pero Judas cedió a la codicia.Traicionó a su maestro por treinta monedas. No tuvo ya alegría en la vida después de este acto, su mente le negó la paz y tuvo que buscar refugio en el suicidio. La traición de gente que simula adorar ha ocurrido en todas las épocas. Personas corruptas, egoístas y ambiciosas esparcen falsedades acerca de sus propios maestros. Oímos de Judas desde hace 2000 años. Pero en la era de Kali la gente está obsesionada por el dinero y los Judas se han multiplicado. Anhelan acumular mezquinas riquezas, cuando en realidad el buen carácter, la conducta recta y el conocimiento de Dios son los tres verdaderos tesoros que deben ser cultivados.Tierras y edificios, oro y plata, dólares y otras divisas son temporales y triviales. Constituyen posesiones sólo mientras dura la vida, pero aquellos tres tesoros persistirán, los sostendrán y los fortalecerán hasta que alcancen la unión con el infinito.

 

El hombre es perito en astronomía; sabe todo acerca de la Tierra, está enterado de lo que pasa en América, Rusia e Inglaterra, pero no sabe quién es, y por eso, todos los demás conocimientos no lo hacen sabio. Está ansioso por reunir información acerca de todo, pero nunca se pregunta: "¿Quién soy yo?", no obstante que usa libremente las palabras "yo" y "mío". Ustedes son el labriego, el cuerpo es el campo. Siembren la semilla del bien y recogerán la cosecha de la felicidad; siembren la semilla del mal y cosecharán dolor. Ustedes son la causa de una y otra consecuencia. No culpen a otros ni le atribuyan parcialidad a Dios. Sobre todo, no se aferren a este transitorio mundo objetivo, está lleno de aflicción y cambios. Cultiven desapego, ecuanimidad, autocontrol y amor. Adquieran el conocimiento acerca de los niveles superiores de conciencia y los planos más elevados de existencia. Deben reconocer que esta vida es una etapa en el largo peregrinaje y que ahora nos encontramos en un hotel, un lugar de descanso temporal que también tiene un vigilante, la mente, de manera que no se sientan permanentemente atados a la mente o al cuerpo.

 

Jesús era una persona cuya sola alegría estribaba en esparcir Amor Divino, ofrecer Amor Divino, recibir Amor Divino y vivir en el Amor Divino.

Existen varias teorías sobre la fecha de su nacimiento, basadas en la brillante estrella que apareció entonces. Se dice que esta estrella es visible una vez cada 800 años. Algunos argumentan que Jesús nació el 15 de septiembre, pero Él nació a las 3:15 de la mañana del 28 de diciembre de hace 1980 años. Era domingo. La estrella que apareció ese día se ve cada 800 años. Su aparición no tiene relación alguna con el nacimiento de Jesús. No hay regla que diga que cuando la encarnación divina desciende a la Tierra, deba aparecer una estrella. Esa sólo es la opinión de los devotos. Sin embargo, Jesús fue él mismo una estrella de inmenso valor que difundía brillantez de dimensión infinita.

 

Hoy es el día del nacimiento de Jesús, celebrado entre las nevadas de diciembre, con luces, arbolitos y oraciones. Pero es inútil rezar sólo un día y olvidar a Dios el resto del año. Ése es un espectáculo frívolo; no emana del corazón. Somos verdaderos cristianos únicamente cuando vivimos de acuerdo con las enseñanzas de Cristo y las practicamos en nuestra vida diaria. Con seguir siquiera dos de Sus enseñanzas bastaría. El declaro: "Toda vida es una sola, querido hijo, sé igual para con todos". Si observáramos verdaderamente esto, bastaría para cumplir nuestro destino. Cuando estaba en la cruz vencido por la agonía, una voz surgida de lo invisible dijo desde los cielos: "La muerte es el vestido de la vida". El cuerpo es el vestido que usa el espíritu divino. Por consiguiente, no debemos llorar cuando el cuerpo se desecha, declina o se daña. La muerte es un incidente, ésa es su verdadera naturaleza. Los hombres buscan la causa de la muerte; nadie, empero, busca el origen de la vida. Durante el breve espacio de la vida, dedíquense a la glorificación de Dios y a realizar Su obra.

 

Dios ha encarnado en forma humana para inspirar a los hombres a seguir ideales superiores, no sólo en la India sino también en otros países. Los hombres pueden tener lenguas y estilos de vida diferentes, pero Dios es uno y está en todas partes. Todas las religiones hablan de Él como amor y alcanzable solo por medio del amor. Las formas de adorar a Dios difieren porque están modeladas por el tiempo y el lugar, pero el amor es el contenido básico de todas las formas. Todos los corazones hablan y entienden el lenguaje del corazón. Ahora consideramos esenciales las mezquinas distinciones de nacionalidad, religión y lenguaje y retenemos el amor que debe fluir desde nuestro corazón hacia cada uno.Tales fueron la vida y el mensaje de Jesús. Foméntenlos en su corazón. Sientan a Jesús como su mensajero enviado por Dios.

 

Sólo el amor es capaz de revelar la Divinidad latente en todos. El amor es Dios: vivan en amor. El amor vive dando y perdonando; el ego vive obteniendo y olvidando. El amor es desprendimiento; el egoísmo, desamor. No malgasten su vida aspirando a los estrechos intereses del ego. ¡Amen! ¡Amen! Vuélvanse lo que realmente son, encarnaciones del Amor. No importa cómo los traten los demás o lo que piensen de ustedes; no se aflijan. Sigan a Jesucristo. Amen por su propia evolución y no por lo que otros digan. No imiten a otros; cultiven su propia vida. Ustedes tienen su propio corazón, sus propias opiniones, sus propias ideas, su propia voluntad. ¿Por qué, entonces, imitar? La imitación es humana, dicen; pero la creación es divina. Sigan su sendero elegido. Dejen que su propia experiencia de Dios sea su guía y maestra. No se vayan a la tumba copiando débilmente a otros. No encontrarán a Dios si lo buscan en el mundo externo. Su propio corazón pleno de amor es el amor de Dios. Sigan al Maestro. Enfrenten el mal. Luchen hasta el final y terminen el juego. Ustedes son Dios. El verdadero 'Yo' es Dios.

 

Ustedes no son una persona, sino tres: la que piensan que son, la que otros piensan que son y la que realmente son. Piensan que son el cuerpo con sus sentidos insaciables; los demás piensan que ustedes son sus personalidades. Lo que realmente son es el Espíritu Divino infinito. Constantemente deben recordarse a si mismos: "Yo soy Dios, yo soy Dios, yo soy Dios". El día que se vean como Dios, se volverán Dios.

 

Si piensan "Sólo soy humano", se descarriarán. No permitan que su cuerpo y sus sentidos dicten sus movimientos. Adquieran la visión interna. La práctica espiritual es el único medio de lograr la paz mental. No cultiven las riquezas, la comodidad o el lujo, sino las virtudes divinas. Entonces serán aptos para recibir la gracia de Dios. ¿Por qué trocar la paz mental permanente por lujos efímeros?

 

Hablen dulcemente; esparzan consuelo con cada mirada suya. No sean esclavos de sus deseos sensuales. Prahlada (un gran devoto de Dios) le dijo a su padre, quien había conquistado los tres mundos, que no había logrado vencer la lujuria y el deseo. Ustedes deben vencer la lujuria y dominar la ira. Alejen de su mente la codicia, el odio y los celos y dediquen sus manos al servicio de la humanidad. Jesús enseñó amor y compasión infinitas. Para resucitar el amor y la compasión tienen que eliminar la envidia y el egoísmo y purificar sus corazones. Ganen la verdadera misericordia de Jesús. Sigan Sus enseñanzas y alcancen la posición que Él tiene.

 

Fuente: Extracto del Discurso Divino del 25/12/1979

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AMOR Y LUZ - DICIEMBRE 2023

Ver en el navegador diciembre 2023 Bienvenida del Presidente Nacional Queridos hermanos y hermanas, Jai Sai Ram Rezo para que todos os encontréis bien con la Gracia de Bhagavan. Qué maravilloso y dichoso mes de noviembre acabamos de tener todos, celebrando el cumpleaños número 98 de nuestro Amado Bhagavan, tanto a nivel nacional como en nuestro propios centros. Hubo algunos eventos inspiradores en todo el país para celebrar el Día de las Damas. Day también, además de la bienaventuranza que todos obtuvimos de los bhajans de Akhand. Diciembre es ampliamente conocido por la Navidad, que conmemora el nacimiento de Jesucristo. Durante el mes de diciembre, muchas personas participan en diversas actividades festivas, asisten a servicios religiosos, participan en actividades de servicio y pasan tiempo con familiares y amigos. Además de Navidad, diciembre también se asocia con otras festividades y celebraciones de diferentes culturas y religiones, como Hanukkah, una fiesta judía, que suele caer en diciembre. En general, diciembre es una época de alegría, reflexión y celebración para personas de diversos orígenes en todo el mundo. Este sábado 16 de diciembre, espero verlos a todos en las celebraciones nacionales de Navidad en Southborough High School en Surbiton, de 11 a. m. a 4 p. m. A medida que nos acercamos al final del año, les deseo a ustedes y a sus familias saludos navideños y que la Gracia de Swami esté con todos ustedes para un Año Nuevo muy dichoso, pacífico y alegre. Amorosamente en el servicio Sai Pratap Thakkar Reserve la fecha: importante para todos los funcionarios y trabajadores activos Conferencia Nacional 2024 Recordatorio final: ¡este fin de semana! Celebraciones Nacionales de Navidad Ala espiritual Primera iniciativa lanzada en vísperas del Centenario 1.008 bhajans domésticos/comunitarios El primero de muchos eventos para conmemorar el Centenario de nuestro amado Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba será el compromiso de realizar 1.008 bhajans domésticos (comunitarios) a partir del 23 de noviembre de este año. Cada Centro y Grupo debe alentar a los devotos a participar y llevar el mensaje de nuestro querido Bhagavan a la comunidad. Las pautas que hemos elaborado para que las siga al realizar bhajans domésticos (comunitarios) están disponibles en la página del Centenario en nuestro sitio web nacional a través del siguiente enlace. Todos los Presidentes de Centro/Grupo y Coordinadores Espirituales deben conservar un registro de la fecha en que se llevaron a cabo los bhajans de la casa (comunidad), el nombre de la ciudad y el nombre del Centro/Grupo que brindó apoyo, así como una foto o dos del altar, etc., para que podamos realizar un seguimiento de nuestra meta. Tenga en cuenta que los bhajans regulares del Centro/Grupo no están incluidos en el recuento de 1.008 bhajans. Este tronco finalmente será colocado a los pies del Loto Divino de nuestro querido Bhagavan en las celebraciones del Cumpleaños del Centenario. No dude en ponerse en contacto con el Coordinador Espiritual Nacional o Regional local para obtener más orientación. Página web de 1.008 bhajans Correo electrónico Ala Espiritual Ala de servicio Apoyando a los menos afortunados durante los meses más fríos Llamamiento anual de Navidad On the occasion of our National Christmas Celebrations, we are supporting "The Passage," a charity in Central London that strives to end homelessness and assists people who have experienced homelessness to realise their own potential to transform their lives. We invite all devotees to make a voluntary offering, through the practice of Ceiling on Desires, of any of the following items for distribution to our brothers and sisters, who find themselves in less fortunate circumstances during this festive period. Men's T-shirts: sizes S, M, L and XL Men's trousers: waist 32, 34, and 36 Men's underwear: all sizes Men's socks: all sizes Tracksuit bottoms: all sizes Men's shoes: sizes 9, 10 and 11 Men's belts: all sizes Rucksacks: sizes D or E Men's shirts: all sizes Cargo pants: all sizes Men's jackets: all sizes Towels Shaving sets Bags: weekend bags or wheelie suitcases Thermos flasks and water bottles Toiletries Chocolate Hats Scarves Socks Notebooks/pens Drink bottle/soup mug/travel coffee mug to keep drink warm Thermal trousers and tops for men and women: multiple sizes The items will need to be suitable for males or females 14 years old and over. We humbly request that all items are new and unused. Please arrange to have your donations brought to the National Christmas Celebrations on the 16th.  Should you have any questions, please contact us via the link below. Email Service Wing Young Adults Wing Continuing the series of articles by UK Young Adults The spirit of service For the welfare of the country and of the entire world, the spirit of service, vital enthusiasm, constructive imagination, pure motivation, and unselfish alertness are all needed urgently. Sri Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 15, Ch. 31, 19 November 1981 The purpose of the Young Adults Wing is to serve the whole organisation whilst supporting the spiritual journey of the next generation. Thus, it is the duty of the Young Adults to be of service, not only to their fellow brothers and sisters across the nation, but also to the world from which they merely borrow. This series of articles captures a snippet of the service activities supported by Young Adults across the UK, in the hope of inspiring others. In this issue, we hear reflections from Sister Hashruthi from Region 5. Helping the needy has been an activity I have been involved in with my family since my childhood. From the time we joined Bal Vikas in Sri Lanka, our service activities started growing, from providing rations, clothes, toys and school items to a nearby children's home, to taking part in Narayana seva, funding tuition and providing aid to cancer and leprosy patients from time to time. "The joy one gets while promoting another's joy is incomparable." - Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Sri Sathya Sai Speaks Vol. 13, Ch. 8, 1st April 1975 The quote above is something I profoundly concur with. I believe it is Swami who helps me in performing a service activity for Swami in the other person. This has allowed me to feel genuine happiness when another person is happy as a result of my actions. Among the various acts of seva I've undertaken, Narayana seva has remained my favourite. This year's Narayana seva was unique. Earlier this year, a family member in Sri Lanka suffered a separation from the rest of the family for a lengthy time. Since I am many miles away from home, the only help I could do for all was to ask Swami to shower His blessings, protect us, and help us all get through this difficult time and reunite. Thus, I began the nine-Thursday vrat by chanting Vedam, Chalisa, and Ashtotram with rice to feed 20 deserving homeless people in and around Newcastle. During those 10 weeks, I experienced a deep spiritual connection with Swami. In the last week, He appeared in my dream, briefly saying, 'Do not worry! I know what's happening. Just give it some time and everything will be fine." With Swami's blessings, I was able to complete the vrat, cook khichdi for 20 people and distribute. As I began identifying and handing over the parcels, the two thoughts that were in my mind were that the food had been blessed by Swami and that I was able to fulfil this seva without any barrier. Most of the comments from the receivers were constant expressions of appreciation. As each one of them said, "Thank you and bless you," I thanked Swami and prayed that the blessings would reach the family. In less than 2 weeks, the family was reunited. That was the most intense and rewarding Narayana seva I have done. By the end of that day, I felt an unexpected feeling of happiness looking at all of them satisfied. Since then, I have been constantly reminded that God is in all and this has encouraged me to further practise gratitude, putting love to action.  The takeaway from this seva was that I need not wait for an incident to take place to engage in selfless service. This experience inspired me to initiate similar seva activities proactively. Enriched by it, my life has gained fulfilment and purpose, fostering commitment to ongoing acts of kindness for the well-being of others. "The Sai Youth must act as role models and serve as a positive influence on other youths in society and make them understand that out of all spiritual activities, service to mankind is the highest and the noblest. The human body has several limbs. All these limbs are meant to be engaged in service." Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Email Young Adults Wing Region 1 (London South East & South West) On Saturday 18th November, Bromley Sai Centre had the opportunity to participate in the Trees for Cities tree planting initiative at Stoneham Park, Bexley. As it had been raining for many days before this, the ground was very soft and digging the holes to plant the saplings was relatively easy. There was a great atmosphere with lots of volunteers, music playing and everyone getting stuck in. We managed to plant 58 saplings between us. After the saplings had been planted, volunteers brought mulch to each sapling and we distributed the mulch to protect each sapling from the elements. In total, there were 155 volunteers and 2,800 trees were planted at the site that day. It was a very well-organised event - refreshments and a vegan lunch were served, and we only had very light rain! It was not something we had participated in before, but would definitely do so again. Thank you to Swami for giving us this opportunity. Merton Sai Centre performed Narayana Seva in Central London on 4th November, where they served a total of 75 meals for the homeless. Merton Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on 23rd November, in the Sai Mandir. The morning programme included 21 Omkaram, Sri Sathya Sai Suprabhatam, Sri Sathya Sai Ashtotram, and the chanting of 108 Gayatri Mantra and 108 Sai Gayatri. The evening programme began with an instrumental offering, then Vedic chanting by the Bal Vikas (SSE) children. This was followed by a beautiful oonjal song sung by the Young Adults, heartfelt bhajans by the Bal Vikas children, Young Adults, and adults, an offering of a devotional song, the birthday song, cake cutting by the Bal Vikas children, and finally, the aarti. The Bal Vikas children created beautiful scrolls pledging improvements they would make for Swami in the coming year. These scrolls were integrated into the altar decorations. Approximately 500 devotees attended the evening celebrations. Merton Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day on 19th November, at the Sai Mandir. The celebration comprised of bhajans, led by the ladies, and talks by two guest speakers. Mrs. Vidyulatha Narayan delivered a talk on great women who had inspired her, and Dr. Meera Thayalan addressed the topic of breast cancer. Merton Sai Centre's annual Interfaith Service for National Interfaith Week took place immediately after the Ladies' Day celebrations on 19th November. External speakers from various faiths and community organisations participated, and were greatly impressed and delighted to hear the children chanting their multi-faith prayers. Additionally, two former Bal Vikas students, now young professionals, served as speakers, discussing topics such as breast cancer, and equality, diversity & inclusion. Merton Sai Centre's annual graduation ceremony took place on 5th November, at the Sai Mandir. Ten Bal Vikas (SSE) children graduated on that day. The graduating children also delivered a beautiful presentation on "Sri Sathya Sai Avatar" as an expression of gratitude towards Swami. Tooting Sai Centre delivered food items (biscuits, sugar, coffee, tea, crisps and chocolates) and men's underpants to Sutton Nightwatch, a homeless charity in Sutton. Tooting Sai Centre also collected items for Wandsworth Food bank on 5th November. A total of 291kg providing 691 meals were delivered. For their November homeless feeding seva, Tooting Sai Centre managed to serve 93 hot meals, 82 bags of fruit and water. Tooting Sai Centre celebrated Baba's 98th birthday on 19th November with a programme of Vedic chanting; recitation of 108 names; bhajans; sharing of experiences from this year's National pilgrimage; a video on centre activities; a sitar recital by Sri Kamalesh Patel; a Bal Vikas presentation on the message of Sai; and a musical offering by the Young Adults. Kingston Sai Centre delivered 98kg of items to Epsom and Ewell food bank for Swami's 98th birthday. Wimbledon Sai Centre delivered 97kg food items and toiletries to Epsom and Ewell food bank for Swami's 98th birthday Wimbledon Sai Centre hosted Age Link on 18th November. Wimbledon Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day on 19th November. All female devotees followed a maroon colour theme and led a beautiful Ladies bhajan. We were fortunate to invite guest speaker, Sister Swati Patel from Tooting Sai Centre, and she kindly spoke about her experiences with Swami in her life. We concluded the day with the aarti. On 26th November, Wimbledon Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday. The day included heartfelt bhajans and a wonderful musical performance presented by our Young Adults. The celebrations ended with the SSE students cutting the birthday cake after singing Swami's birthday song. Around 150 devotees partook in the event. Lewisham Sai Centre celebrated Sri Sathya Sai Baba's 98th birthday. Email Region 1 Region 2 (London North West and nearby Home Counties) Slough Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Sunday 26th November. We had over 110 devotees attending. Our SSE children delivered a wonderful skit that explained all about the importance of Bal Vikas classes. We then had a fabulous speech given by Brother Hari Krishna Prasad Gorrepati, an alumnus from Prasanthi Nilayam. The bhajans sent electrifying vibrations and all our devotees engaged very well in chorus. With divine blessings of our beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Slough Sai Centre was able to offer 14 shoe boxes towards the deserving children of Moldova. We are so grateful to our Centre members who came forward with a lot of enthusiasm to participate in this service and offer their contributions to the children in need. On Saturday 18th November, Harrow West Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day. In the presence of 80 beautiful sisters from around Region 2, plus our supportive brothers and children, we were joined by the incredible ladies from the Asian Women Cancer Group. Led by Professor of Public Health and long-time Sai devotee Dr Daksha Trivedi, they described their precious journeys through different types of cancer, detailing the diagnosis, suffering, treatment, and their determination to turn these challenging circumstances into a force for good to help others. Within the Asian community where cancer can be a taboo subject; their message of looking out for and acting on early signs of cancer was conveyed with passion and conviction. Whilst the session was delivered by women, the learnings from this vital topic could also be applied to our brothers. Harrow West Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday. We had an offering from our Bal Vikas children based on service and surrender, followed by an enchanting recitation of the Bhaja Govindam. We then had a breathtaking musical offering from our Young Adults, covering Sai as Ganesha, Sai as Krishna, and Sai as Sarva Dharma. Their offering transported us to Prasanthi Nilayam. Following this, we had the great fortune of being addressed by Brother Jagdish Chandra Saraswatula. Upcoming event: Region 2 Sunday 31st December: New Year's Eve bhajan, as per flyer above Email Region 2 Region 3 (London North, East & Central and nearby Home Counties) For this year's Region 3 Akhand Bhajans, which took place from Saturday 11th to Sunday 12th November, children from Mill Hill and Manor Park Sai Centres participated in the Bal Vikas slot. All of the children sang confidently and had great voices. It was a joy to hear them sing and they rendered their bhajans beautifully. On the 26th of October, Chelmsford Sai Centre celebrated Sri Sathya Sai Baba's 98th birthday with around 60 devotees in attendance. We started with a cultural offering from our Bal Vikas children and Young Adults. We then recited the Sri Sathya Sai Ashtotram and sang uplifting bhajans. This was then followed by the Hanuman Chalisa and aarti. We cut a beautiful homemade cake for Swami and enjoyed Mahaprashadam to conclude the celebrations. The bhajan was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Central London Sai Centre lovingly celebrated Swami's 98th birthday with a programme called "Swami and I," in which devotees shared the impact and the importance of Swami in their lives. Bhajans and medleys were concluded with Swami's birthday song and the Sai children moving the Jhoola. Then all the children cut the special cake that was presented to Swami. A feeling of joy and gratitude permeated the atmosphere. Bedford Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday in two parts. The morning session was celebrated with prayers and giving thanks. We also delivered our food collection items to the food bank on this day. The evening session was celebrated with classical singing and a dance by our Bal Vikas children, followed by a discourse and bhajans. It was attended by 30 devotees. Cambridge Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Saturday 25th November. It was attended by approximately 50 devotees. We were fortunate to have participation from the Regional team as well. The programme included Vedam chanting, offerings from the Bal Vikas children and an item from the adults. The atmosphere was electric as we also marked 5 years as a centre, with Swami's grace. We concluded the programme with Likhita Nama Japam as a group Sadhana, chanting and writing Swami's name for several minutes. Email Region 3 Region 4 (Midlands) What a weekend it was! A mixture of festivity and Namasmaran in the form of Region 4's Akhand Bhajan. 24 hours of singing the glory of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, not just in Region 4 but all over the world. Centres and Groups from our region came together to sing the glory of His name. 24 hours were filled with beautiful bhajans, some tasty treats and scrumptious meals, as well as hot drinks throughout. A massive thank you to all that helped to make this wonderful spiritual uplifting event possible, from the catering team, to the altar set up team, to the hall set up, to the media team, and service volunteers that worked throughout the weekend. We were also very fortunate to have several multi-faith groups attend and take part. Finally, a big thank you to the number one friend, Father, Mother, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba: without His will, nothing would be possible. Ladies from Region 4 participated in Ladies' Day on 19th November. The programme started with a procession, bhajans and Swami's divine discourse. A few selected ladies spoke about their personal journey to Sai. This was very inspirational, with a common thread of Swami's personal connection to us individually, while at the same time emphasising His divine qualities of being omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient. This was followed by a study circle titled, "The Journey Within," with many ladies who shared their views of developing spirituality, spiritual contemplation and reflecting on the developments within themselves that Swami says will "restore reverence and right action at home". The competitive element of games, quiz and bhajan antakshari really brought out the team spirit, with merriment, interaction and people letting their hair down. Swami was surely laughing with us. Finally, we shared the lovely prashadam. Leicester Sai Centres jointly celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday on 23rd November. The day began with chanting Suprabhatam to awaken the Sai within us; followed by a Paduka Pooja where we adorned His padukas with panchamrut, flowers and prayer. We then went to our daily jobs and fulfilled our duties, basking in the prayers and aura of spiritual worship. The journey continued in the evening. Over 350 devotees filled the hall. The Bal Vikas children presented a dance choreographed by one of the children themselves, and also presented a wonderful drama: "Do our words match our deeds?" The Young Adults then presented a musical programme consisting of songs full of feeling. Brother Sanjay Samani then shared his journey, from a playful childhood with Swami, to now. Experiences filled with mischief, love and encouragement. Simple, but profound messages were communicated such as Do Good, Be Good and See Good. Brother Sanjay took us on a journey in which Swami reminded us that He is always with us; just let Him be the guide. To mark Bhagawan's 98th birthday, Young Adults from the Leicester Sai Centres had the opportunity to serve on a soup run. Those who could not join the soup run were still keen to help and therefore helped make fresh tomato soup, cobs, fry samosas and pack parcels. On route, 30 brothers and sisters were served on the streets. We soon realised, after 30 minutes of being outside, how cold we all were. We couldn't imagine how these individuals were coping sitting idle outside. This service opportunity wasn't just about giving, it was about having a conversation with these individuals, who spend most of their time alone and isolated. These individuals who have nothing showed so much gratitude! We went out that night thinking we were serving them. In fact, we were humbled as these divine souls served as reminders of Bhagawan's teachings to us! On Sunday 19th November, Leicester Central Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day and Ankut. The programme consisted of Bhajans by the sisters, followed by a brief talk about the history of Ladies' Day by Sister Roopa. Ankut items were on display, lovingly prepared by devotees and were offered as prashadam after bhajans. During November, devotees of Leicester Central Sai Centre collected items for food parcels for Moldova. We have partnered with the charity TEECH, which travels by road each Christmas to Moldova to hand deliver each parcel. Devotees packed over 100 parcels, which are currently on their way to Moldova and are expected to arrive in the next few weeks. Nottingham Sai Group celebrated Akhand Bhajans with 21 devotees coming together to sing Swami's glory for 3 hours with love and devotion. The programme started with multi-faith prayers and Rudram (Namakam and Chamakam), followed by bhajans with a group medley to conclude the celebrations. Following these, 7 Nottingham devotees travelled to Leicester that evening to join the regional Akhand Bhajans and sing Swami's glory with love and devotion. On Tuesday 21st November, Nottingham Sai Group celebrated Swami's 98th birthday with about 22 devotees in attendance. The programme commenced with opening prayers and the reciting of 108 names of Bhagawan, followed by 12 bhajans sung with love and devotion. After aarti, the whole congregation sang the birthday song for Swami and a birthday cake was cut by two of the children from the group. This was followed by prashadam lovingly prepared by the sisters in the group. On Saturday 18th November, Wolverhampton Sai Centre held their weekend birthday programme which consisted of bhajans, a ladies item, a birthday quiz, a service presentation on the service activities carried out in 2023, and a Young Adults musical play titled, 'Be Good, See Good, Do Good.' This was followed by Swami's divine discourse, birthday song and prashadam. The programme was a success, with around 75-100 devotees attending. On Swami's 98th birthday, Wolverhampton Sai Centre started their celebrations with 108 names of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, during which devotees could participate in a Paduka Pooja. This was followed by bhajans and a Young Adults musical offering. Devotees also had the opportunity to write letters to Bhagawan, which were offered at Swami's Lotus feet; these were commitments to Swami of personal improvements to be made during 2024 and to be offered to Him on His 99th birthday. There were many cakes baked by devotees in the Centre and these were offered as prashadam at the end of the bhajan session. Email Region 4 Region 5 (North England and Northern Ireland) Newcastle Sai Centre organised a 4-hour Akhand bhajan on 11th November. The evening started with Rudram chanting, followed by bhajans offered by 17 singers to our beloved Bhagawan. Bolton, Greater Manchester and Warrington Sai Centres combined to hold 5 hours of vibrant Akhand bhajans, concluding with a bhajan medley by the Young Adults. Newcastle Sai Centre celebrated Swami's birthday on 23rd November. The evening started with Vedam followed by a beautiful, heartfelt musical by the Young Adults. Video clips of Swami's discourses were played on the screen. The evening finished with bhajans, aarti and cake cutting by children. Leeds Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday on Saturday 25th November, attended by more than 100 devotees. The programme began with Vedam chanting and shlokas recited by the Bal Vikas children. This was followed by Paduka Pooja with chanting of the Sri Sathya Sai Ashtotram. A selection of devotional songs was offered to Swami, followed by the singing of the song, Humko Tumse Pyaar Kitna, by the whole congregation. Bhajans followed for the next hour, with the event coming to a close with aarti and cake being offered to Swami. All the devotees had a blissful time and Swami's presence was very much felt during the entire programme. Bradford Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Thursday 23rd November. It was wonderful to see over 70 devotees from across the region attend. The programme commenced with Paduka Pooja, followed by vibrant uplifting bhajans, and concluded with the cutting of the cake and aarti. Bharatbhai Sisodia gave an inspirational talk on his personal experiences on how Swami continues to guide. It was a wonderful, joyous occasion! More photos can be seen via the following link: https://fb.watch/oAqADxaTQv/ Halifax Sai Group celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on 18th November. The event started with Vedam, then bhajans. Celebrations concluded with the Bal Vikas children cutting the cake while Swami's birthday song was sung by the Young Adults. All the devotees were served lovely Prashadam. Greater Manchester Sai Centre celebrated Swami's birthday on Sunday 26th November with bhajans, cake cutting and group devotional songs offered by the Young Adults. On Saturday 2nd December, Bolton Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday and Christmas. This was a momentous event as, after 25 years, devotees returned to the same venue where the Centre was established in 1972. There were tears of joy amongst the elders, with memories flooding back from the last 51 years. The celebrations included Ashtotram chanting, bhajans, meditation, guest speakers and carol singing. Mr Bharat Sisodia and Mr Yatin Mistry relayed aspects of their respective journeys to Sai, extremely moving experiences. The celebrations closed with aarti and cake cutting. At last month's National Birthday Celebrations, everyone was urged to plant trees – Brother Malcolm from Region 5 was one of those who responded. Above, you can see Brother Malcolm and the trees he planted. The National Birthday Celebrations also mentioned that, whatever words one uses to describe Swami, they are never enough: Swami is always so much more. Hence, the inscription on the plaque placed beneath one of the trees. Bradford Sai Centre supported their local Junior Chamber of Commerce's annual Secret Santa Appeal, by donating 34 Christmas presents.  Upcoming event: Bolton, Greater Manchester and Warrington Sai Centres Monday 1st January, 4.30-6.45pm: New Year bhajan at Gita Bhavan Hindu Temple, 231 Withington Road, Whalley Range, Manchester M16 8LU Email Region 5 Region 6 (South & South East England) Swami's 98th birthday celebrations were held by Basingstoke Sai Group on 23rd November. About 70 devotees attended. The celebrations began with bhajans, followed by cake cutting and ended with aarti to Swami. Folkestone Sai Group celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Sunday 19th November. The programme started with Gayatri Mantra, Mrtyunjaya mantra and 108 names, followed by bhajans. About 29 devotees attended. The programme concluded with cake cutting and aarti, followed by prashadam. Akhand bhajan was held by Farnborough Sai Centre on 11th November. About 20-25 devotees joined to sing His glory overnight. Rudram chanting was held by Farnborough Sai Centre on 18th November. About 10 devotees attended the event. Farnborough Sai Centre planted 72 trees at Talavera School on 19th November. About 35 devotees, including 17 SSE children, took part in the event. Farnborough Sai Centre celebrated Swami's birthday on 23rd November. About 100 devotees attended the celebrations to seek Bhagawan's blessings. Tunbridge Wells Sai Group had home bhajans marking Bhagawan's 98th birthday in Sister Jyothi's house with around 40 devotees. Tunbridge Wells Sai Group celebrated Swami's birthday on 25th November, with a gathering of 125 devotees. The programme commenced with Vedam and Paduka Pooja together with Ashtotram chanting. The vibrant bhajans and the Bal Vikas offerings of dances and drama added to the joy.We had our Regional President Brother Roni address the gathering, sharing his invaluable experiences. The event concluded with cake cutting, aarti and prashadam. Litter picking service was carried out by Rochester Sai Centre on 4th November. About 10 devotees took part in the service. Akhanda bhajans were held by Rochester Sai Centre on 11th November. Devotees gathered to sing His glory and received the divine blessings. Rochester Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday on 18th November. The programme began with a SSE procession with Swami's padukas and continued with introductory mantras, Ashtotram, and Lingam and Spatikam Abishekam. After bhajans, there were short presentations by the Bal Vikas children. The special talk by sister Anjali Gupta on the topic "Love of Mother Sai" moved every heart and made everybody pine more and more for Swami's love. After short presentations by various devotees, it concluded with Jhoola, cake cutting and aarti, followed by prashadam. Swami's 98th birthday celebrations were held by Eastbourne Sai Group on 23rd November. The programme began with Rudram, followed by bhajans and reading of Sri Sathya Sai Narayana katha and concluded with aarti. Upcoming event: Rochester Sai Centre Saturday 16th December, 4-7pm: Christmas celebrations at South Park Pavilion, Armstrong Road, Maidstone ME15 6AZ Email Region 6 Region 7 (West & South West England and Wales) On 11th November, Region 7 Akhand bhajans took place in Swindon. Swami's 98th Birthday celebration took place at the Hindu Temple in Cheltenham. A total of 15 devotees gathered to celebrate the occasion with Rudram chanting and bhajan offering. Some donations of toiletries were also collected for Cheltenham Open Door, a local charity. Devotees from Region 7 collected and contributed to the Moldova shoebox project. A total of £354 was also collected for the project. Devotees from across Region 7 also collected a total of 19 scarves and 14 hats for the project, "Something Beautiful for God." Devisha Patel, a Young Adult from Cheltenham Sai Group and an optician, treated patients at the medical camp held in Prasanthi Nilayam in November. It was a very busy camp but she felt very blessed to be there, especially during Baba's birthday. Email Region 7 Region 8 (Scotland) El 11 de noviembre, el Centro Sai de Aberdeen realizó Akhand bhajans. Asistieron alrededor de 30 personas. Los bhajans se llevaron a cabo de 6 a 8 pm seguidos del canto del mantra Gayatri a las 9 pm. Después se sirvió prashadam. Los bhajans de Akhand se llevaron a cabo en el Centro Sai de Edimburgo el 11 de noviembre, de 6 a 7 pm. Alrededor de 15 personas asistieron a los bhajans seguidos de aarti y prashadam. El Centro Sai de Edimburgo celebró el cumpleaños de Baba el 23 de noviembre. Asistieron alrededor de 80 personas. Rudram fue cantado por adultos y niños de Bal Vikas, seguido de bhajans. Después hubo aarti, corte de pastel y prashadam. El Centro Sai de Glasgow realizó sus bhajans Akhand el 11 de noviembre, de 15:00 a 20:00 horas. El Glasgow Sai Centre llevó a cabo su servicio regular de alimentación para personas sin hogar el 12 de noviembre.  El Centro Sai de Glasgow celebró el cumpleaños de Swami el 23 de noviembre en la casa de la tía Sharma. Alrededor de 45 personas asistieron a los bhajans. A esto le siguió el aarti y el corte del pastel. El 25 de noviembre, Región 8 celebró el cumpleaños de Baba en el hotel Radisson Blu de Perth. El programa comenzó con el canto Vedam, seguido de una presentación del Centro Sai de Aberdeen, que incluyó una obra de teatro y una danza clásica. Luego, el Centro Sai de Glasgow presentó una obra de teatro de los niños de Bal Vikas, seguida de un cuestionario sobre la vida de Baba. Luego, tuvimos artículos de los estudiantes de Bal Vikas de Edimburgo, incluido un bhajan, una obra de teatro y una canción grupal de todos los niños. El programa terminó con bhajans, aarti, corte de pastel y prashadam. La hermana Jayashree (Aberdeen) y la hermana Sreebala (Dundee) participaron en el campamento médico en Prasanthi Nilayam del 18 al 25 de noviembre. Asistieron casi 52 médicos de todo el mundo (incluida la India), así como entre 50 y 60 voluntarios. Un día típico comenzaría con el canto Vedam a las 6:30 am, seguido del desayuno. El registro de pacientes se realizaría inmediatamente. Se atendía a unos 1.500 pacientes al día. Se instaló una UCI con tres camas. Se disponía de controles de azúcar en sangre en ayunas y ECG. Se distribuyeron más de 1.000 gafas tras controles optometristas. También se ofrecían medicinas alternativas, p. reiki y yoga. Los comentarios de los pacientes fueron excelentes. Correo electrónico Región 8 Organización Sri Sathya Sai del Reino Unido Amar a todos servir a todos | La ayuda nunca duele Darse de baja

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View in browser December 2023 National President's Welcome Dearest Brothers and Sisters, Jai Sai Ram I pray that you are all keeping well with Bhagawan's Grace. What a wonderful and blissful month of November we have all just had, celebrating our Beloved Bhagawan's 98th birthday, both Nationally and at our own centres. There were some inspiring events across the country celebrating Ladies' Day too, besides the bliss we all derived from Akhand bhajans. December is widely known for Christmas, which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. During the month of December, many people engage in various festive activities, attending church services, engaging in service activities, and spending time with family and friends. Apart from Christmas, December is also associated with other holidays and celebrations in different cultures and religions, such as Hanukkah, a Jewish festival, which often falls in December. Overall, December is a time of joy, reflection, and celebration for people of various backgrounds around the world. This Saturday, 16th December, I look forward to seeing you all at the National Christmas Celebrations at Southborough High School in Surbiton, from 11am to 4pm. As we are coming to the end of the year, I wish you and your families season's greetings and may Swami's Grace be upon you all for a very blissful, peaceful and joyful New Year. Lovingly In Sai Service Pratap Thakkar Save the date: important for all office bearers and active workers National Conference 2024 Final reminder: on this weekend! National Christmas Celebrations Spiritual Wing First initiative launched in lead-up to Centenary 1,008 home/community bhajans The first of many events to mark the Centenary of our beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba will be the commitment to conduct 1,008 house (community) bhajans starting from 23rd November this year. Each Centre and Group should encourage devotees to participate and take the message of our dear Bhagawan out into the community. Guidelines that we have put together for you to follow when conducting house (community) bhajans are available on the Centenary page on our National website via the link below. All Centre/Group Presidents and Spiritual Coordinators are required to retain a log of the date when the house (community) bhajans were held, the name of the town and the Centre/Group name that provided support, as well a photo or two of the altar etc., so that we can keep track of our goal. Please note, regular Centre/Group bhajans are not included in the tally towards 1,008 bhajans. This log will finally be placed at the Divine Lotus feet of our dear Bhagawan at the Centenary Birthday celebrations. Please do not hesitate to contact the National or your local Regional Spiritual Coordinator for any further guidance. 1,008 bhajans webpage Email Spiritual Wing Service Wing Supporting those less fortunate during the colder months Annual Christmas appeal On the occasion of our National Christmas Celebrations, we are supporting "The Passage," a charity in Central London that strives to end homelessness and assists people who have experienced homelessness to realise their own potential to transform their lives. We invite all devotees to make a voluntary offering, through the practice of Ceiling on Desires, of any of the following items for distribution to our brothers and sisters, who find themselves in less fortunate circumstances during this festive period. Men's T-shirts: sizes S, M, L and XL Men's trousers: waist 32, 34, and 36 Men's underwear: all sizes Men's socks: all sizes Tracksuit bottoms: all sizes Men's shoes: sizes 9, 10 and 11 Men's belts: all sizes Rucksacks: sizes D or E Men's shirts: all sizes Cargo pants: all sizes Men's jackets: all sizes Towels Shaving sets Bags: weekend bags or wheelie suitcases Thermos flasks and water bottles Toiletries Chocolate Hats Scarves Socks Notebooks/pens Drink bottle/soup mug/travel coffee mug to keep drink warm Thermal trousers and tops for men and women: multiple sizes The items will need to be suitable for males or females 14 years old and over. We humbly request that all items are new and unused. Please arrange to have your donations brought to the National Christmas Celebrations on the 16th.  Should you have any questions, please contact us via the link below. Email Service Wing Young Adults Wing Continuing the series of articles by UK Young Adults The spirit of service For the welfare of the country and of the entire world, the spirit of service, vital enthusiasm, constructive imagination, pure motivation, and unselfish alertness are all needed urgently. Sri Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. 15, Ch. 31, 19 November 1981 The purpose of the Young Adults Wing is to serve the whole organisation whilst supporting the spiritual journey of the next generation. Thus, it is the duty of the Young Adults to be of service, not only to their fellow brothers and sisters across the nation, but also to the world from which they merely borrow. This series of articles captures a snippet of the service activities supported by Young Adults across the UK, in the hope of inspiring others. In this issue, we hear reflections from Sister Hashruthi from Region 5. Helping the needy has been an activity I have been involved in with my family since my childhood. From the time we joined Bal Vikas in Sri Lanka, our service activities started growing, from providing rations, clothes, toys and school items to a nearby children's home, to taking part in Narayana seva, funding tuition and providing aid to cancer and leprosy patients from time to time. "The joy one gets while promoting another's joy is incomparable." - Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Sri Sathya Sai Speaks Vol. 13, Ch. 8, 1st April 1975 The quote above is something I profoundly concur with. I believe it is Swami who helps me in performing a service activity for Swami in the other person. This has allowed me to feel genuine happiness when another person is happy as a result of my actions. Among the various acts of seva I've undertaken, Narayana seva has remained my favourite. This year's Narayana seva was unique. Earlier this year, a family member in Sri Lanka suffered a separation from the rest of the family for a lengthy time. Since I am many miles away from home, the only help I could do for all was to ask Swami to shower His blessings, protect us, and help us all get through this difficult time and reunite. Thus, I began the nine-Thursday vrat by chanting Vedam, Chalisa, and Ashtotram with rice to feed 20 deserving homeless people in and around Newcastle. During those 10 weeks, I experienced a deep spiritual connection with Swami. In the last week, He appeared in my dream, briefly saying, 'Do not worry! I know what's happening. Just give it some time and everything will be fine." With Swami's blessings, I was able to complete the vrat, cook khichdi for 20 people and distribute. As I began identifying and handing over the parcels, the two thoughts that were in my mind were that the food had been blessed by Swami and that I was able to fulfil this seva without any barrier. Most of the comments from the receivers were constant expressions of appreciation. As each one of them said, "Thank you and bless you," I thanked Swami and prayed that the blessings would reach the family. In less than 2 weeks, the family was reunited. That was the most intense and rewarding Narayana seva I have done. By the end of that day, I felt an unexpected feeling of happiness looking at all of them satisfied. Since then, I have been constantly reminded that God is in all and this has encouraged me to further practise gratitude, putting love to action.  The takeaway from this seva was that I need not wait for an incident to take place to engage in selfless service. This experience inspired me to initiate similar seva activities proactively. Enriched by it, my life has gained fulfilment and purpose, fostering commitment to ongoing acts of kindness for the well-being of others. "The Sai Youth must act as role models and serve as a positive influence on other youths in society and make them understand that out of all spiritual activities, service to mankind is the highest and the noblest. The human body has several limbs. All these limbs are meant to be engaged in service." Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Email Young Adults Wing Region 1 (London South East & South West) On Saturday 18th November, Bromley Sai Centre had the opportunity to participate in the Trees for Cities tree planting initiative at Stoneham Park, Bexley. As it had been raining for many days before this, the ground was very soft and digging the holes to plant the saplings was relatively easy. There was a great atmosphere with lots of volunteers, music playing and everyone getting stuck in. We managed to plant 58 saplings between us. After the saplings had been planted, volunteers brought mulch to each sapling and we distributed the mulch to protect each sapling from the elements. In total, there were 155 volunteers and 2,800 trees were planted at the site that day. It was a very well-organised event - refreshments and a vegan lunch were served, and we only had very light rain! It was not something we had participated in before, but would definitely do so again. Thank you to Swami for giving us this opportunity. Merton Sai Centre performed Narayana Seva in Central London on 4th November, where they served a total of 75 meals for the homeless. Merton Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on 23rd November, in the Sai Mandir. The morning programme included 21 Omkaram, Sri Sathya Sai Suprabhatam, Sri Sathya Sai Ashtotram, and the chanting of 108 Gayatri Mantra and 108 Sai Gayatri. The evening programme began with an instrumental offering, then Vedic chanting by the Bal Vikas (SSE) children. This was followed by a beautiful oonjal song sung by the Young Adults, heartfelt bhajans by the Bal Vikas children, Young Adults, and adults, an offering of a devotional song, the birthday song, cake cutting by the Bal Vikas children, and finally, the aarti. The Bal Vikas children created beautiful scrolls pledging improvements they would make for Swami in the coming year. These scrolls were integrated into the altar decorations. Approximately 500 devotees attended the evening celebrations. Merton Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day on 19th November, at the Sai Mandir. The celebration comprised of bhajans, led by the ladies, and talks by two guest speakers. Mrs. Vidyulatha Narayan delivered a talk on great women who had inspired her, and Dr. Meera Thayalan addressed the topic of breast cancer. Merton Sai Centre's annual Interfaith Service for National Interfaith Week took place immediately after the Ladies' Day celebrations on 19th November. External speakers from various faiths and community organisations participated, and were greatly impressed and delighted to hear the children chanting their multi-faith prayers. Additionally, two former Bal Vikas students, now young professionals, served as speakers, discussing topics such as breast cancer, and equality, diversity & inclusion. Merton Sai Centre's annual graduation ceremony took place on 5th November, at the Sai Mandir. Ten Bal Vikas (SSE) children graduated on that day. The graduating children also delivered a beautiful presentation on "Sri Sathya Sai Avatar" as an expression of gratitude towards Swami. Tooting Sai Centre delivered food items (biscuits, sugar, coffee, tea, crisps and chocolates) and men's underpants to Sutton Nightwatch, a homeless charity in Sutton. Tooting Sai Centre also collected items for Wandsworth Food bank on 5th November. A total of 291kg providing 691 meals were delivered. For their November homeless feeding seva, Tooting Sai Centre managed to serve 93 hot meals, 82 bags of fruit and water. Tooting Sai Centre celebrated Baba's 98th birthday on 19th November with a programme of Vedic chanting; recitation of 108 names; bhajans; sharing of experiences from this year's National pilgrimage; a video on centre activities; a sitar recital by Sri Kamalesh Patel; a Bal Vikas presentation on the message of Sai; and a musical offering by the Young Adults. Kingston Sai Centre delivered 98kg of items to Epsom and Ewell food bank for Swami's 98th birthday. Wimbledon Sai Centre delivered 97kg food items and toiletries to Epsom and Ewell food bank for Swami's 98th birthday Wimbledon Sai Centre hosted Age Link on 18th November. Wimbledon Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day on 19th November. All female devotees followed a maroon colour theme and led a beautiful Ladies bhajan. We were fortunate to invite guest speaker, Sister Swati Patel from Tooting Sai Centre, and she kindly spoke about her experiences with Swami in her life. We concluded the day with the aarti. On 26th November, Wimbledon Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday. The day included heartfelt bhajans and a wonderful musical performance presented by our Young Adults. The celebrations ended with the SSE students cutting the birthday cake after singing Swami's birthday song. Around 150 devotees partook in the event. Lewisham Sai Centre celebrated Sri Sathya Sai Baba's 98th birthday. Email Region 1 Region 2 (London North West and nearby Home Counties) Slough Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Sunday 26th November. We had over 110 devotees attending. Our SSE children delivered a wonderful skit that explained all about the importance of Bal Vikas classes. We then had a fabulous speech given by Brother Hari Krishna Prasad Gorrepati, an alumnus from Prasanthi Nilayam. The bhajans sent electrifying vibrations and all our devotees engaged very well in chorus. With divine blessings of our beloved Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Slough Sai Centre was able to offer 14 shoe boxes towards the deserving children of Moldova. We are so grateful to our Centre members who came forward with a lot of enthusiasm to participate in this service and offer their contributions to the children in need. On Saturday 18th November, Harrow West Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day. In the presence of 80 beautiful sisters from around Region 2, plus our supportive brothers and children, we were joined by the incredible ladies from the Asian Women Cancer Group. Led by Professor of Public Health and long-time Sai devotee Dr Daksha Trivedi, they described their precious journeys through different types of cancer, detailing the diagnosis, suffering, treatment, and their determination to turn these challenging circumstances into a force for good to help others. Within the Asian community where cancer can be a taboo subject; their message of looking out for and acting on early signs of cancer was conveyed with passion and conviction. Whilst the session was delivered by women, the learnings from this vital topic could also be applied to our brothers. Harrow West Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday. We had an offering from our Bal Vikas children based on service and surrender, followed by an enchanting recitation of the Bhaja Govindam. We then had a breathtaking musical offering from our Young Adults, covering Sai as Ganesha, Sai as Krishna, and Sai as Sarva Dharma. Their offering transported us to Prasanthi Nilayam. Following this, we had the great fortune of being addressed by Brother Jagdish Chandra Saraswatula. Upcoming event: Region 2 Sunday 31st December: New Year's Eve bhajan, as per flyer above Email Region 2 Region 3 (London North, East & Central and nearby Home Counties) For this year's Region 3 Akhand Bhajans, which took place from Saturday 11th to Sunday 12th November, children from Mill Hill and Manor Park Sai Centres participated in the Bal Vikas slot. All of the children sang confidently and had great voices. It was a joy to hear them sing and they rendered their bhajans beautifully. On the 26th of October, Chelmsford Sai Centre celebrated Sri Sathya Sai Baba's 98th birthday with around 60 devotees in attendance. We started with a cultural offering from our Bal Vikas children and Young Adults. We then recited the Sri Sathya Sai Ashtotram and sang uplifting bhajans. This was then followed by the Hanuman Chalisa and aarti. We cut a beautiful homemade cake for Swami and enjoyed Mahaprashadam to conclude the celebrations. The bhajan was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Central London Sai Centre lovingly celebrated Swami's 98th birthday with a programme called "Swami and I," in which devotees shared the impact and the importance of Swami in their lives. Bhajans and medleys were concluded with Swami's birthday song and the Sai children moving the Jhoola. Then all the children cut the special cake that was presented to Swami. A feeling of joy and gratitude permeated the atmosphere. Bedford Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday in two parts. The morning session was celebrated with prayers and giving thanks. We also delivered our food collection items to the food bank on this day. The evening session was celebrated with classical singing and a dance by our Bal Vikas children, followed by a discourse and bhajans. It was attended by 30 devotees. Cambridge Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Saturday 25th November. It was attended by approximately 50 devotees. We were fortunate to have participation from the Regional team as well. The programme included Vedam chanting, offerings from the Bal Vikas children and an item from the adults. The atmosphere was electric as we also marked 5 years as a centre, with Swami's grace. We concluded the programme with Likhita Nama Japam as a group Sadhana, chanting and writing Swami's name for several minutes. Email Region 3 Region 4 (Midlands) What a weekend it was! A mixture of festivity and Namasmaran in the form of Region 4's Akhand Bhajan. 24 hours of singing the glory of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, not just in Region 4 but all over the world. Centres and Groups from our region came together to sing the glory of His name. 24 hours were filled with beautiful bhajans, some tasty treats and scrumptious meals, as well as hot drinks throughout. A massive thank you to all that helped to make this wonderful spiritual uplifting event possible, from the catering team, to the altar set up team, to the hall set up, to the media team, and service volunteers that worked throughout the weekend. We were also very fortunate to have several multi-faith groups attend and take part. Finally, a big thank you to the number one friend, Father, Mother, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba: without His will, nothing would be possible. Ladies from Region 4 participated in Ladies' Day on 19th November. The programme started with a procession, bhajans and Swami's divine discourse. A few selected ladies spoke about their personal journey to Sai. This was very inspirational, with a common thread of Swami's personal connection to us individually, while at the same time emphasising His divine qualities of being omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient. This was followed by a study circle titled, "The Journey Within," with many ladies who shared their views of developing spirituality, spiritual contemplation and reflecting on the developments within themselves that Swami says will "restore reverence and right action at home". The competitive element of games, quiz and bhajan antakshari really brought out the team spirit, with merriment, interaction and people letting their hair down. Swami was surely laughing with us. Finally, we shared the lovely prashadam. Leicester Sai Centres jointly celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday on 23rd November. The day began with chanting Suprabhatam to awaken the Sai within us; followed by a Paduka Pooja where we adorned His padukas with panchamrut, flowers and prayer. We then went to our daily jobs and fulfilled our duties, basking in the prayers and aura of spiritual worship. The journey continued in the evening. Over 350 devotees filled the hall. The Bal Vikas children presented a dance choreographed by one of the children themselves, and also presented a wonderful drama: "Do our words match our deeds?" The Young Adults then presented a musical programme consisting of songs full of feeling. Brother Sanjay Samani then shared his journey, from a playful childhood with Swami, to now. Experiences filled with mischief, love and encouragement. Simple, but profound messages were communicated such as Do Good, Be Good and See Good. Brother Sanjay took us on a journey in which Swami reminded us that He is always with us; just let Him be the guide. To mark Bhagawan's 98th birthday, Young Adults from the Leicester Sai Centres had the opportunity to serve on a soup run. Those who could not join the soup run were still keen to help and therefore helped make fresh tomato soup, cobs, fry samosas and pack parcels. On route, 30 brothers and sisters were served on the streets. We soon realised, after 30 minutes of being outside, how cold we all were. We couldn't imagine how these individuals were coping sitting idle outside. This service opportunity wasn't just about giving, it was about having a conversation with these individuals, who spend most of their time alone and isolated. These individuals who have nothing showed so much gratitude! We went out that night thinking we were serving them. In fact, we were humbled as these divine souls served as reminders of Bhagawan's teachings to us! On Sunday 19th November, Leicester Central Sai Centre celebrated Ladies' Day and Ankut. The programme consisted of Bhajans by the sisters, followed by a brief talk about the history of Ladies' Day by Sister Roopa. Ankut items were on display, lovingly prepared by devotees and were offered as prashadam after bhajans. During November, devotees of Leicester Central Sai Centre collected items for food parcels for Moldova. We have partnered with the charity TEECH, which travels by road each Christmas to Moldova to hand deliver each parcel. Devotees packed over 100 parcels, which are currently on their way to Moldova and are expected to arrive in the next few weeks. Nottingham Sai Group celebrated Akhand Bhajans with 21 devotees coming together to sing Swami's glory for 3 hours with love and devotion. The programme started with multi-faith prayers and Rudram (Namakam and Chamakam), followed by bhajans with a group medley to conclude the celebrations. Following these, 7 Nottingham devotees travelled to Leicester that evening to join the regional Akhand Bhajans and sing Swami's glory with love and devotion. On Tuesday 21st November, Nottingham Sai Group celebrated Swami's 98th birthday with about 22 devotees in attendance. The programme commenced with opening prayers and the reciting of 108 names of Bhagawan, followed by 12 bhajans sung with love and devotion. After aarti, the whole congregation sang the birthday song for Swami and a birthday cake was cut by two of the children from the group. This was followed by prashadam lovingly prepared by the sisters in the group. On Saturday 18th November, Wolverhampton Sai Centre held their weekend birthday programme which consisted of bhajans, a ladies item, a birthday quiz, a service presentation on the service activities carried out in 2023, and a Young Adults musical play titled, 'Be Good, See Good, Do Good.' This was followed by Swami's divine discourse, birthday song and prashadam. The programme was a success, with around 75-100 devotees attending. On Swami's 98th birthday, Wolverhampton Sai Centre started their celebrations with 108 names of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, during which devotees could participate in a Paduka Pooja. This was followed by bhajans and a Young Adults musical offering. Devotees also had the opportunity to write letters to Bhagawan, which were offered at Swami's Lotus feet; these were commitments to Swami of personal improvements to be made during 2024 and to be offered to Him on His 99th birthday. There were many cakes baked by devotees in the Centre and these were offered as prashadam at the end of the bhajan session. Email Region 4 Region 5 (North England and Northern Ireland) Newcastle Sai Centre organised a 4-hour Akhand bhajan on 11th November. The evening started with Rudram chanting, followed by bhajans offered by 17 singers to our beloved Bhagawan. Bolton, Greater Manchester and Warrington Sai Centres combined to hold 5 hours of vibrant Akhand bhajans, concluding with a bhajan medley by the Young Adults. Newcastle Sai Centre celebrated Swami's birthday on 23rd November. The evening started with Vedam followed by a beautiful, heartfelt musical by the Young Adults. Video clips of Swami's discourses were played on the screen. The evening finished with bhajans, aarti and cake cutting by children. Leeds Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday on Saturday 25th November, attended by more than 100 devotees. The programme began with Vedam chanting and shlokas recited by the Bal Vikas children. This was followed by Paduka Pooja with chanting of the Sri Sathya Sai Ashtotram. A selection of devotional songs was offered to Swami, followed by the singing of the song, Humko Tumse Pyaar Kitna, by the whole congregation. Bhajans followed for the next hour, with the event coming to a close with aarti and cake being offered to Swami. All the devotees had a blissful time and Swami's presence was very much felt during the entire programme. Bradford Sai Centre celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Thursday 23rd November. It was wonderful to see over 70 devotees from across the region attend. The programme commenced with Paduka Pooja, followed by vibrant uplifting bhajans, and concluded with the cutting of the cake and aarti. Bharatbhai Sisodia gave an inspirational talk on his personal experiences on how Swami continues to guide. It was a wonderful, joyous occasion! More photos can be seen via the following link: https://fb.watch/oAqADxaTQv/ Halifax Sai Group celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on 18th November. The event started with Vedam, then bhajans. Celebrations concluded with the Bal Vikas children cutting the cake while Swami's birthday song was sung by the Young Adults. All the devotees were served lovely Prashadam. Greater Manchester Sai Centre celebrated Swami's birthday on Sunday 26th November with bhajans, cake cutting and group devotional songs offered by the Young Adults. On Saturday 2nd December, Bolton Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday and Christmas. This was a momentous event as, after 25 years, devotees returned to the same venue where the Centre was established in 1972. There were tears of joy amongst the elders, with memories flooding back from the last 51 years. The celebrations included Ashtotram chanting, bhajans, meditation, guest speakers and carol singing. Mr Bharat Sisodia and Mr Yatin Mistry relayed aspects of their respective journeys to Sai, extremely moving experiences. The celebrations closed with aarti and cake cutting. At last month's National Birthday Celebrations, everyone was urged to plant trees – Brother Malcolm from Region 5 was one of those who responded. Above, you can see Brother Malcolm and the trees he planted. The National Birthday Celebrations also mentioned that, whatever words one uses to describe Swami, they are never enough: Swami is always so much more. Hence, the inscription on the plaque placed beneath one of the trees. Bradford Sai Centre supported their local Junior Chamber of Commerce's annual Secret Santa Appeal, by donating 34 Christmas presents.  Upcoming event: Bolton, Greater Manchester and Warrington Sai Centres Monday 1st January, 4.30-6.45pm: New Year bhajan at Gita Bhavan Hindu Temple, 231 Withington Road, Whalley Range, Manchester M16 8LU Email Region 5 Region 6 (South & South East England) Swami's 98th birthday celebrations were held by Basingstoke Sai Group on 23rd November. About 70 devotees attended. The celebrations began with bhajans, followed by cake cutting and ended with aarti to Swami. Folkestone Sai Group celebrated Swami's 98th birthday on Sunday 19th November. The programme started with Gayatri Mantra, Mrtyunjaya mantra and 108 names, followed by bhajans. About 29 devotees attended. The programme concluded with cake cutting and aarti, followed by prashadam. Akhand bhajan was held by Farnborough Sai Centre on 11th November. About 20-25 devotees joined to sing His glory overnight. Rudram chanting was held by Farnborough Sai Centre on 18th November. About 10 devotees attended the event. Farnborough Sai Centre planted 72 trees at Talavera School on 19th November. About 35 devotees, including 17 SSE children, took part in the event. Farnborough Sai Centre celebrated Swami's birthday on 23rd November. About 100 devotees attended the celebrations to seek Bhagawan's blessings. Tunbridge Wells Sai Group had home bhajans marking Bhagawan's 98th birthday in Sister Jyothi's house with around 40 devotees. Tunbridge Wells Sai Group celebrated Swami's birthday on 25th November, with a gathering of 125 devotees. The programme commenced with Vedam and Paduka Pooja together with Ashtotram chanting. The vibrant bhajans and the Bal Vikas offerings of dances and drama added to the joy.We had our Regional President Brother Roni address the gathering, sharing his invaluable experiences. The event concluded with cake cutting, aarti and prashadam. Litter picking service was carried out by Rochester Sai Centre on 4th November. About 10 devotees took part in the service. Akhanda bhajans were held by Rochester Sai Centre on 11th November. Devotees gathered to sing His glory and received the divine blessings. Rochester Sai Centre celebrated Bhagawan's 98th birthday on 18th November. The programme began with a SSE procession with Swami's padukas and continued with introductory mantras, Ashtotram, and Lingam and Spatikam Abishekam. After bhajans, there were short presentations by the Bal Vikas children. The special talk by sister Anjali Gupta on the topic "Love of Mother Sai" moved every heart and made everybody pine more and more for Swami's love. After short presentations by various devotees, it concluded with Jhoola, cake cutting and aarti, followed by prashadam. Swami's 98th birthday celebrations were held by Eastbourne Sai Group on 23rd November. The programme began with Rudram, followed by bhajans and reading of Sri Sathya Sai Narayana katha and concluded with aarti. Upcoming event: Rochester Sai Centre Saturday 16th December, 4-7pm: Christmas celebrations at South Park Pavilion, Armstrong Road, Maidstone ME15 6AZ Email Region 6 Region 7 (West & South West England and Wales) On 11th November, Region 7 Akhand bhajans took place in Swindon. Swami's 98th Birthday celebration took place at the Hindu Temple in Cheltenham. A total of 15 devotees gathered to celebrate the occasion with Rudram chanting and bhajan offering. Some donations of toiletries were also collected for Cheltenham Open Door, a local charity. Devotees from Region 7 collected and contributed to the Moldova shoebox project. A total of £354 was also collected for the project. Devotees from across Region 7 also collected a total of 19 scarves and 14 hats for the project, "Something Beautiful for God." Devisha Patel, a Young Adult from Cheltenham Sai Group and an optician, treated patients at the medical camp held in Prasanthi Nilayam in November. It was a very busy camp but she felt very blessed to be there, especially during Baba's birthday. Email Region 7 Region 8 (Scotland) On 11th November, Aberdeen Sai Centre conducted Akhand bhajans. Around 30 people attended. The bhajans were conducted from 6 to 8 pm followed by Gayatri mantra chanting at 9pm. Afterwards, there was prashadam served. Akhand bhajans were conducted at Edinburgh Sai Centre on 11th November, 6 to 7 pm. Around 15 people attended the bhajans followed by aarti and prashadam. Edinburgh Sai Centre celebrated Baba's birthday on 23rd November. There were around 80 people in attendance. Rudram was chanted by adults and Bal Vikas children, followed by bhajans. Afterwards, there was aarti, cake cutting and prashadam. Glasgow Sai Centre conducted its Akhand bhajans on 11th November, from 3 pm to 8 pm. Glasgow Sai Centre carried out its regular homeless feeding service on 12th November.  Glasgow Sai Centre celebrated Swami's birthday on 23rd November at Aunty Sharma's house. Around 45 people attended the bhajans. This was followed by aarti and cake cutting. On 25th November, Region 8 celebrated Baba's birthday in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Perth. The programme commenced with Vedam chanting, followed by a presentation from Aberdeen Sai Centre, which included a play and a classical dance. Then, Glasgow Sai Centre staged a play by the Bal Vikas children, followed by a quiz on Baba's life. Then, we had items by Edinburgh's Bal Vikas students, including a bhajan, a play and a group song by all the children. The programme ended with bhajans, aarti, cake cutting and prashadam. Sister Jayashree (Aberdeen) and Sister Sreebala (Dundee) participated in the medical camp in Prasanthi Nilayam from 18th to 25th November. Nearly 52 physicians from the world over (including India) had come, as well as 50-60 volunteers. A typical day would start with Vedam chanting at 6:30 am, followed by breakfast. Patient registration would follow immediately. Around 1,500 patients were seen a day. An ICU with three beds was setup. Fasting blood sugar checks and ECG were available. More than 1,000 spectacles were distributed following optometrist checks. There was also alternative medicine on offer, e.g. reiki and yoga. Patient feedback was excellent. Email Region 8 Sri Sathya Sai Organisation UK Love All Serve All | Help Ever Hurt Never Unsubscribe