The Thursday, October 16th General Board meeting of WISDOM will include a very special happening at the NorthMinster Presbyterian Church in Troy (3633 West Big Beaver Road – just East of Coolidge on the North side of Big Beaver – 248-644-5920).
Starting at Noon on October 16th Thursday, WISDOM would like to invite the public to join us as we hear Pastor Charlotte Sommers discuss the building of the Interfaith Labyrinth and what the Labyrinth symbolizes, we walk the Interfaith Labyrinth, and we discuss our personal reactions to the Labyringth during a “bring your own bag lunch” interfaith lunchtime. Please read the article below about the Troy Interfaith Labyrinth and mark your calendars to join us on October 16th as we walk a spiritual path built to aid in meditation. What can we get out of walking a labyrinth? “The labyrinth can be used for many goals. It is a tool. If a person enters seeking to quiet their mind and relax, they will find calm. If a person enters seeking insight into their life, then they will find out about themselves. There are a number of techniques that are effective. One is to enter recalling your life. At each turn look for either a decision or event that changed your life. Watch as the path brings you nearer the goal and then back out. Another technique is to start with a song, prayer or meditation. Give thanks for a blessing each time you turn to your left and release an event that pains you on each turn to the right. It has been said that the labyrinth came into the western religions in a response to the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. At that time, it became impossible for most people to travel to Jerusalem for the pilgrimage holidays. The labyrinth was substituted for the pilgrimage. As churches grew in Europe, a labyrinth was often included in either the floor or the garden.” (This information came from www.BodyMindSpiritGuide.com).
Please e-mail us at wisdom@interfaithwisdom.org to let us know if you would like to join us at the Labyrinth at noon on October 16th. There is no charge – just bring a “brown bag lunch” for yourself. WISDOM will provide drinks and coffee, so we would like to know how many folks plan to join us. The Labyrinth and lunch should conclude no later than 1:30 PM.
Here is an article that appeared in the Detroit News about the Troy Labyrinth.
Church's labyrinth a route to reflection
Troy Interfaith Group builds gift with donations
Catherine Jun / The Detroit News
TROY -- To most, the newly landscaped ground in front of Northminster Presbyterian Church might look like nothing more than a brick-laden courtyard.
But a careful look at the pavement reveals a meandering pattern, one that if followed will lead visitors on a slow, meditative walk to the courtyard's center -- and possibly to a more peaceful state of mind.
It's a labyrinth, fashioned after those found on the grounds of cathedrals in medieval Europe, once used for repentance or as a substitute for a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
The one in front of the church on Big Beaver is nondenominational, drawing people seeking a moment of quiet reflection.
It was laid last month by several religious groups that wanted to offer something to people of all beliefs.
"We see it as a symbol of our peace among our diversity," said the Rev. Charlotte Sommers, pastor at the church and member of the Troy Interfaith Group, which spearheaded the project.
The group built the labyrinth with donations, about $47,000, mostly from individuals and area houses of worship.
For those involved in the project, it is a concrete reminder of the growing interfaith network in the city, formed several years ago to hold its own prayer event when a Hindu was denied participation in the long-held National Day of Prayer event in front of City Hall.
"We never expected to go beyond an initial event," said the Rev. Rich Peacock of Troy First United Methodist Church, who convenes the group's monthly meetings.
Eventually, "the interest and the need to understand each other and the need to witness that we can work together mushroomed," he said in a recent interview.
About 100 people from about nine faiths turned out for the dedication this month, said Sommers.
Among them was Reema Butt, an Ahmadiyya Muslim, one of the several growing area faith communities.
"It is very inviting," she said.
Butt has since returned to walk the colored bricks. And as she walks, she recites in her head the first chapter of the Koran, a supplication that asks for help in seeking the right path.
"I just think about the words and prayer," she said.
Friday, August 29, 2008
August 24th Eco-Friendly WISDOM Event
Here is a message from Judy Satterthwaite, WISDOM Program Chairperson:
On August 24th, we had a beautiful, sunny day at Addison Oaks County Park where 18 members of our WISDOM family and friends met to do our part for the environment. Each brought their own picnic lunch and many people graciously shared extra dishes, so we all had an opportunity to sample foods from other cultures. Our location, Lakeview Pavilion, was built to give visitors a wonderful view of the lake, but it had become so overgrown that the lake was hardly visible. Kathleen Dougherty, Natural Resources Educator for the Parks, explained how this happened. The plants, Autumn Olive, Oriental Bittersweet and Buckthorn, were normally planted as ornamental shrubs in private yards…but birds have eaten the berries and deposited the seeds in places where they have grown into massive tree-like bushes that choke out our native plants and trees. Our job was to cut these bushes as low to the ground as possible so that Kathleen and her assistant Kim, could follow and coat the cuts with a systemic herbicide that would kill the roots. Some people forged into the woods and begin cutting through the jungle of intertwined brush while others dragged the cut branches to a large pile. We had a great time…all worked in teams, taking turns cutting, dragging, and resting! All ages…from 9 to 72…worked well together and had fun doing it. When we left after 2 ½ hours of productive work, there was a beautiful view of the lake including a family of five swans swimming in a majestic line across the water. We playfully named them the “Salka Swans” because there were also five members in Gigi Salka's family hard at work. When we left at three o’clock, we had only opened a small clearing but all felt the satisfaction of a job well done!
What a wonderful interfaith coming together of WISDOM families and friends to make a difference in our environment. Please see all of our great photos of the event below!!
Monday, August 25, 2008
WISDOM Educational Event and this week's Jain Festival
Dear WISDOM Sisters:
Below is a description from the Pluralism Project website (http://www.pluralism.org) about the Jain festival Paryushan which begins on Wednesday, August 27th this week. If you are interested in learning more about the Jain religion and other religions from India, WISDOM is planning an Educational Day on Sunday November 9th. The cost will be $25.00 per person, and the flyer and registration forms will be sent out sometime around the middle of September. We hope you will form carpools with other interested folks to go to the following holy places to learn about three Eastern religions – Hinduism, Sikhism, and Jainism. The tentative agenda is as follows:
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM Hindu Bharatiya Temple on Adams Road in Troy (includes a vegetarian lunch)
2:30 – 4:00 PM Sikh Gurdwara Sahib on Schoolcraft Road in Plymouth
4:30 – 6:00 PM Jain Temple on 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills
I hope to see you at this wonderful educational opportunity!! Mark your calendars.wis
Gail Katz
WISDOM President
Paryushan is the most important Jain religious observance of the year. For both Shvetambars, who observe the festival over a period of eight days, and Digambars, for whom Paryushan Parva lasts ten days, this is a time of intensive study, reflection, and purification. It takes place in the middle of the four-month rainy season in India, a time when the monks and nuns cease moving about from place to place and stay with a community. Paryushan means, literally, "abiding" or "coming together." The monks and nuns who have to maintain fixed residence during the rainy season abide with the laity and are available to them for instruction and guidance. It is also a time when the laity take on various temporary vows of study and fasting, a spiritual intensity similar to temporary monasticism. In this respect, it bears comparison with periods of rigorous religious practice in other traditions, such as the Christian observance of Lent. Paryushan concludes with a time of confession and forgiveness for the transgressions of the previous year.
In the United States, Jains often combine the two observances, with the eight days of the Shvetambar tradition followed by the ten of the Digambar tradition. It is customary for religious leaders, such as Gurudev Chitrabhanu, to stay at one of the Jain centers in order to be available to the laity during the period of Paryushan. Arrangements are made with such leaders well in advance to assure members of their presence. There are not enough to cover all the centers, however. Some centers may host visiting renunciants from India who have not yet undertaken all the vows of full mendicancy and can therefore travel in vehicles and live in America, with all the compromises to the monastic life that this entails. Other centers may have the presence of samans or samanis, monks and nuns in a new order created especially to attend to Jain communities outside India.
Even if there are no religious leaders in residence, the laity meet every evening during Paryushan, shifting their focus of life to the soul for these days. The most important part of Paryushan is daily meditation and prayer, which provides an opportunity for looking within and looking toward the teachings of the Tirthankaras for guidance. Beginning on the fourth day of Paryushan, it is customary for Murtipujak Shvetambars to read from the Kalpa Sutra, a scripture which recounts the life of Mahavira--the fourteen dreams of his mother before his birth, followed by the story of his birth, his life, and his liberation. It also recounts the lives of other Tirthankaras and the rules of Paryushan. In India, the book of scripture would be carried ceremonially through the streets, water sprinkled in its path along the way, purifying the entire town.
Jains often take time off from work during this period and eat a much simpler diet. They add to their normal vegetarian restrictions by avoiding such foods as potatoes, onions, and garlic--the eating of which entail killing the plant instead of just taking its fruit. Many Jains also fast during Paryushan, some for the entire period. At the end of Paryushan, those who have fasted for the eight or ten days break their fast with a special meal during which they do not touch food, but are fed by friends and loved ones in honor of their achievement.
For Shvetambars, the final day of Paryushan is Samvastsari Pratikraman, the "Annual Confession." The act of confessing any infringement of the five great vows to one's teacher is part of the life of a devout Jain throughout the year. But on this day it becomes the focus of the entire community. The ritual of asking forgiveness from the teacher is widened in scope to include family and friends and, finally, all living beings. The culmination of confession is receiving forgiveness from all living beings and also granting forgiveness to all beings.
This ritual of forgiveness is sometimes called the rite of "universal friendship." Most Jain centers in the U.S. now conduct at least part of the ritual of forgiveness in English for the benefit of the youth. The St. Louis and San Diego Jain communities, for instance, have published English-language "Pratikraman" booklets. The spirit of the day is contained in this verse, recited by heart:
“I grant forgiveness to all living beings, May all living beings grant me forgiveness; My friendship is with all living beings, My enmity is totally non-existent. Let there be peace, harmony, and prosperity for all.”
Below is a description from the Pluralism Project website (http://www.pluralism.org) about the Jain festival Paryushan which begins on Wednesday, August 27th this week. If you are interested in learning more about the Jain religion and other religions from India, WISDOM is planning an Educational Day on Sunday November 9th. The cost will be $25.00 per person, and the flyer and registration forms will be sent out sometime around the middle of September. We hope you will form carpools with other interested folks to go to the following holy places to learn about three Eastern religions – Hinduism, Sikhism, and Jainism. The tentative agenda is as follows:
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM Hindu Bharatiya Temple on Adams Road in Troy (includes a vegetarian lunch)
2:30 – 4:00 PM Sikh Gurdwara Sahib on Schoolcraft Road in Plymouth
4:30 – 6:00 PM Jain Temple on 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills
I hope to see you at this wonderful educational opportunity!! Mark your calendars.wis
Gail Katz
WISDOM President
Paryushan is the most important Jain religious observance of the year. For both Shvetambars, who observe the festival over a period of eight days, and Digambars, for whom Paryushan Parva lasts ten days, this is a time of intensive study, reflection, and purification. It takes place in the middle of the four-month rainy season in India, a time when the monks and nuns cease moving about from place to place and stay with a community. Paryushan means, literally, "abiding" or "coming together." The monks and nuns who have to maintain fixed residence during the rainy season abide with the laity and are available to them for instruction and guidance. It is also a time when the laity take on various temporary vows of study and fasting, a spiritual intensity similar to temporary monasticism. In this respect, it bears comparison with periods of rigorous religious practice in other traditions, such as the Christian observance of Lent. Paryushan concludes with a time of confession and forgiveness for the transgressions of the previous year.
In the United States, Jains often combine the two observances, with the eight days of the Shvetambar tradition followed by the ten of the Digambar tradition. It is customary for religious leaders, such as Gurudev Chitrabhanu, to stay at one of the Jain centers in order to be available to the laity during the period of Paryushan. Arrangements are made with such leaders well in advance to assure members of their presence. There are not enough to cover all the centers, however. Some centers may host visiting renunciants from India who have not yet undertaken all the vows of full mendicancy and can therefore travel in vehicles and live in America, with all the compromises to the monastic life that this entails. Other centers may have the presence of samans or samanis, monks and nuns in a new order created especially to attend to Jain communities outside India.
Even if there are no religious leaders in residence, the laity meet every evening during Paryushan, shifting their focus of life to the soul for these days. The most important part of Paryushan is daily meditation and prayer, which provides an opportunity for looking within and looking toward the teachings of the Tirthankaras for guidance. Beginning on the fourth day of Paryushan, it is customary for Murtipujak Shvetambars to read from the Kalpa Sutra, a scripture which recounts the life of Mahavira--the fourteen dreams of his mother before his birth, followed by the story of his birth, his life, and his liberation. It also recounts the lives of other Tirthankaras and the rules of Paryushan. In India, the book of scripture would be carried ceremonially through the streets, water sprinkled in its path along the way, purifying the entire town.
Jains often take time off from work during this period and eat a much simpler diet. They add to their normal vegetarian restrictions by avoiding such foods as potatoes, onions, and garlic--the eating of which entail killing the plant instead of just taking its fruit. Many Jains also fast during Paryushan, some for the entire period. At the end of Paryushan, those who have fasted for the eight or ten days break their fast with a special meal during which they do not touch food, but are fed by friends and loved ones in honor of their achievement.
For Shvetambars, the final day of Paryushan is Samvastsari Pratikraman, the "Annual Confession." The act of confessing any infringement of the five great vows to one's teacher is part of the life of a devout Jain throughout the year. But on this day it becomes the focus of the entire community. The ritual of asking forgiveness from the teacher is widened in scope to include family and friends and, finally, all living beings. The culmination of confession is receiving forgiveness from all living beings and also granting forgiveness to all beings.
This ritual of forgiveness is sometimes called the rite of "universal friendship." Most Jain centers in the U.S. now conduct at least part of the ritual of forgiveness in English for the benefit of the youth. The St. Louis and San Diego Jain communities, for instance, have published English-language "Pratikraman" booklets. The spirit of the day is contained in this verse, recited by heart:
“I grant forgiveness to all living beings, May all living beings grant me forgiveness; My friendship is with all living beings, My enmity is totally non-existent. Let there be peace, harmony, and prosperity for all.”
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Hinduism and Upcoming Hindu Holidays
Dear WISDOM Sisters:
There are several Hindu holidays on the horizon, and Padma Kuppa, our esteemed Hindu WISDOM board member, has graciously taken the time to educate all of us about Hinduism, and the three Hindu holidays coming up in August and early September. Thank you, Padma!! Please take the time to learn about our sisters’ religion!!
Gail Katz
WISDOM President
Hinduism
It is difficult to define Hinduism, better known as Sanatana Dharma,
since it is not a particular creed or ideaology but a way of life. It
also has no founder. There are varying schools of thought and
philosophy, but there are three spiritual truths which all human
beings have to deal with:
God (Brahman)
Individual Soul (Atman)
Creation (Jagat)
The Hindu philosophy of Vedanta, or monism, proposes that everything
in this world is God. According to this philosophy, God is the ocean,
and an individual soul is a wave of this ocean, having a temporary
identity of its own, but a part of the ocean. According to the
alternative philosophy dvaita, or dualism, God and man are separate;
man is like a clay pot filled with water that comes from the same
ocean that God is. The essential life-giving principle or
consciousness of everyone is the same.
The Hindu scriptures include the Vedas, teachings developed by sages
and seers over many centuries, the Upanishads, the Puranas (of which
the Ramayana and Mahabharata are very popular) and the Bhagavad Gita.
They are all written in the ancient language of Sanskrit. The Puranas
contain examples and stories to illustrate the concepts found in Vedas
in much simpler language. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are the
historical narrations of Rama and Krishna, which serve as a guide for
the common man to live a moral life. Hindus believe that the universe
undergoes endless cycles of creation, preservation and dissolution,
and the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva represent or govern these
three (creation, preservation, dissolution) respectively. Rama and
Krishna are avatars or forms of Vishnu, the preserver, and the
philosophy of the Vedas and other scriptures is presented with
analogies and parables in a way easy for a common man to understand.
India, where the majority of the one billion Hindus worldwide live, is
a country of many languages and ethnicities. Hence many religious
works, including literature and hymns or bhajans have been written
over the centuries in many commonly spoken Indian languages which
include Hindustani or Hindi, Gujarathi, Tamil and Telugu.
Holy Festivals of Hinduism: Insights into the Annual Celebrations
Hindus Enjoy the World Over -
August/September 2008 Edition
________________________________
When it comes to Hindu festivals, Nepal rules - they celebrate 19 a
year on their official calendar, three of them exclusively for women!
India, by contrast, sets aside just two Hindu days a year on its
national calendar - Navaratri and Diwali. Many others are on the
religious calendar, which is lunisolar and similar to the Jewish
calendar in that we sometimes have an extra month. There are also
regional calendars in different parts of India, and holidays differ by
ethnic and geographic area. In America, the US Congress officially
recognized Diwali as a annual holiday for American Hindus, in 2007.
But whatever official calendars say, Hindus miss no opportunity to set
mundane matters aside and join with friends, neighbors and strangers
alike in invocation of the One Supreme God and the many Gods, in honor
of the Guru or in celebration of the passing of the seasons. While
anthropologists generally assign mere social significance in the
cycles of festivals, the devout Hindu knows these are times of
profound mystical connection to the inner worlds, times when God and
the Gods touch our world, revitalize our very souls, lighten our
karmas and bless our families. The following are India-wide or
rather, worldwide, festivals which are celebrated at this time of year.
Aug. 16, 2008: Raksha Bandhan
On the full moon of Karkata, or Cancer (Sravana July/August), sisters
tie a rakhi around the wrist of their brothers, who in return give a
present of clothing, cash or jewelry and become obligated for the
safety of the sister. The rakhi can also be given to anyone chosen as
an "adopted brother," even outside the Hindu community. It signifies
that she is praying for his welfare and that he is determined to give
protection to her. Originally the rakhi was a handspun cotton thread
dyed yellow with turmeric, but now many colors and materials are used.
Three knots are made in the thread to signify protection in thought,
word and deed. This day is also celebrated as Narali Purnima, "coconut
full moon," when coconuts are offered to Varuna, God of the Sea, by
throwing them into the ocean. It is also called Avani Avittam, or
Jandhyala Purnima, the ceremony of changing of the sacred thread among
the brahmins. This tradition dates back to Vedic times when the year's
studies were commenced on this day. Here in America, one can buy a
rakhi at the local Indian store, make one or even order one online!
Additionally, the temple priests will perform the rites for people who
wish to change their sacred thread (aka yajurveda upakarma) - .
________________________________
Aug. 23, 2008: Krishna Janmashtami
Lord Krishna, eighth incarnation of Vishnu, was born on the eighth
lunar day (ashtami) of the dark half of Karkata, or Cancer (Sravana
July/August). Devotees fast the preceding day until midnight, the time
that Krishna was born to Vasudeva and Devaki in the Mathura kingdom's
prison 5,000 years ago. At midnight, amidst grand ceremony, the temple
priest places the image of the newborn Krishna in a swinging crib.
Among the traditional observances, pots of sweets, curd and butter are
hung near homes, on trees and street poles in recollection of
Krishna's love for these things. Teenage boys dressed as cowherds form
human pyramids to reach and break the pots. The following day is again
one of festivity, including puja, storytelling and the Ras Leela, a
folk theater depicting major events of Krishna's life. "Dark as a rain
cloud," reads one account of His birth, "He made the prison glow with
the splendor of His crown, His jewelry and His yellow silk robes. He
was the Lord God incarnate." American Hindus celebrate in different
ways depending on the "ethnic leanings" of their local temple - the
Bharatiya Temple in Troy usually has a cultural program after the
religious and celebratory rituals. This year, there will be aa Raas
Garba - a more social or folk dance that can be performed by all who
wish to participate, often using sticks or dandiyas, going about in a
circular pattern. A link to the activities can be found here:
http://www.bharatiya-temple.org/home/events/KrishnaJanmashtami.shtml.
________________________________
Sept. 3, 2008: Ganesha Chaturthi
The fourth lunar day of the bright half of Simha, or Leo (Bhadra
August/September), is celebrated around the world as the birthday of
Ganesha, the elephant-headed God of Wisdom and Lord of Obstacles. As
with other festivals, the homes and temples are elaborately decorated
for the day. The special activity is the making of clay images of
Ganesha, reverently formed and decorated. Some are huge works of art
created by craftsmen, others are tiny icons painted and decorated by
children. At the end of the day, or seven or ten days later, these
images are ceremoniously immersed in the ocean or a nearby stream or
lake, signifying the creation of Ganesha from the Earth and His return
and dissolution in the ocean of universal consciousness. So intense
has been His presence at this time that even grown men weep at His
auspicious departure. His worship on this day removes obstacles and
ensures smooth progress in all ventures through the year. As Ganesha
is common to all Hindu sects and schools of belief and practice, this
festival is serving both inside and outside of India as a day to
celebrate Hindu unity. As it falls on a working day, the Bharatiya
Temple, like many American temples, has an event which involves
children performing the a simplified version of the ritual or puja, on
the following Sunday (Sept. 7). Many Hindu families will perform the
ritual in their homes, often making special food items such as
'modaka" which are considered Ganesha's favorite. The puja is one that
celebrates nature and may involve the use of fruit, vegetables and
other plant materials (leaves, grass, etc.) depending on the region of
India that one comes from.
There are several Hindu holidays on the horizon, and Padma Kuppa, our esteemed Hindu WISDOM board member, has graciously taken the time to educate all of us about Hinduism, and the three Hindu holidays coming up in August and early September. Thank you, Padma!! Please take the time to learn about our sisters’ religion!!
Gail Katz
WISDOM President
Hinduism
It is difficult to define Hinduism, better known as Sanatana Dharma,
since it is not a particular creed or ideaology but a way of life. It
also has no founder. There are varying schools of thought and
philosophy, but there are three spiritual truths which all human
beings have to deal with:
God (Brahman)
Individual Soul (Atman)
Creation (Jagat)
The Hindu philosophy of Vedanta, or monism, proposes that everything
in this world is God. According to this philosophy, God is the ocean,
and an individual soul is a wave of this ocean, having a temporary
identity of its own, but a part of the ocean. According to the
alternative philosophy dvaita, or dualism, God and man are separate;
man is like a clay pot filled with water that comes from the same
ocean that God is. The essential life-giving principle or
consciousness of everyone is the same.
The Hindu scriptures include the Vedas, teachings developed by sages
and seers over many centuries, the Upanishads, the Puranas (of which
the Ramayana and Mahabharata are very popular) and the Bhagavad Gita.
They are all written in the ancient language of Sanskrit. The Puranas
contain examples and stories to illustrate the concepts found in Vedas
in much simpler language. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are the
historical narrations of Rama and Krishna, which serve as a guide for
the common man to live a moral life. Hindus believe that the universe
undergoes endless cycles of creation, preservation and dissolution,
and the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Siva represent or govern these
three (creation, preservation, dissolution) respectively. Rama and
Krishna are avatars or forms of Vishnu, the preserver, and the
philosophy of the Vedas and other scriptures is presented with
analogies and parables in a way easy for a common man to understand.
India, where the majority of the one billion Hindus worldwide live, is
a country of many languages and ethnicities. Hence many religious
works, including literature and hymns or bhajans have been written
over the centuries in many commonly spoken Indian languages which
include Hindustani or Hindi, Gujarathi, Tamil and Telugu.
Holy Festivals of Hinduism: Insights into the Annual Celebrations
Hindus Enjoy the World Over -
August/September 2008 Edition
________________________________
When it comes to Hindu festivals, Nepal rules - they celebrate 19 a
year on their official calendar, three of them exclusively for women!
India, by contrast, sets aside just two Hindu days a year on its
national calendar - Navaratri and Diwali. Many others are on the
religious calendar, which is lunisolar and similar to the Jewish
calendar in that we sometimes have an extra month. There are also
regional calendars in different parts of India, and holidays differ by
ethnic and geographic area. In America, the US Congress officially
recognized Diwali as a annual holiday for American Hindus, in 2007.
But whatever official calendars say, Hindus miss no opportunity to set
mundane matters aside and join with friends, neighbors and strangers
alike in invocation of the One Supreme God and the many Gods, in honor
of the Guru or in celebration of the passing of the seasons. While
anthropologists generally assign mere social significance in the
cycles of festivals, the devout Hindu knows these are times of
profound mystical connection to the inner worlds, times when God and
the Gods touch our world, revitalize our very souls, lighten our
karmas and bless our families. The following are India-wide or
rather, worldwide, festivals which are celebrated at this time of year.
Aug. 16, 2008: Raksha Bandhan
On the full moon of Karkata, or Cancer (Sravana July/August), sisters
tie a rakhi around the wrist of their brothers, who in return give a
present of clothing, cash or jewelry and become obligated for the
safety of the sister. The rakhi can also be given to anyone chosen as
an "adopted brother," even outside the Hindu community. It signifies
that she is praying for his welfare and that he is determined to give
protection to her. Originally the rakhi was a handspun cotton thread
dyed yellow with turmeric, but now many colors and materials are used.
Three knots are made in the thread to signify protection in thought,
word and deed. This day is also celebrated as Narali Purnima, "coconut
full moon," when coconuts are offered to Varuna, God of the Sea, by
throwing them into the ocean. It is also called Avani Avittam, or
Jandhyala Purnima, the ceremony of changing of the sacred thread among
the brahmins. This tradition dates back to Vedic times when the year's
studies were commenced on this day. Here in America, one can buy a
rakhi at the local Indian store, make one or even order one online!
Additionally, the temple priests will perform the rites for people who
wish to change their sacred thread (aka yajurveda upakarma) - .
________________________________
Aug. 23, 2008: Krishna Janmashtami
Lord Krishna, eighth incarnation of Vishnu, was born on the eighth
lunar day (ashtami) of the dark half of Karkata, or Cancer (Sravana
July/August). Devotees fast the preceding day until midnight, the time
that Krishna was born to Vasudeva and Devaki in the Mathura kingdom's
prison 5,000 years ago. At midnight, amidst grand ceremony, the temple
priest places the image of the newborn Krishna in a swinging crib.
Among the traditional observances, pots of sweets, curd and butter are
hung near homes, on trees and street poles in recollection of
Krishna's love for these things. Teenage boys dressed as cowherds form
human pyramids to reach and break the pots. The following day is again
one of festivity, including puja, storytelling and the Ras Leela, a
folk theater depicting major events of Krishna's life. "Dark as a rain
cloud," reads one account of His birth, "He made the prison glow with
the splendor of His crown, His jewelry and His yellow silk robes. He
was the Lord God incarnate." American Hindus celebrate in different
ways depending on the "ethnic leanings" of their local temple - the
Bharatiya Temple in Troy usually has a cultural program after the
religious and celebratory rituals. This year, there will be aa Raas
Garba - a more social or folk dance that can be performed by all who
wish to participate, often using sticks or dandiyas, going about in a
circular pattern. A link to the activities can be found here:
http://www.bharatiya-temple.org/home/events/KrishnaJanmashtami.shtml.
________________________________
Sept. 3, 2008: Ganesha Chaturthi
The fourth lunar day of the bright half of Simha, or Leo (Bhadra
August/September), is celebrated around the world as the birthday of
Ganesha, the elephant-headed God of Wisdom and Lord of Obstacles. As
with other festivals, the homes and temples are elaborately decorated
for the day. The special activity is the making of clay images of
Ganesha, reverently formed and decorated. Some are huge works of art
created by craftsmen, others are tiny icons painted and decorated by
children. At the end of the day, or seven or ten days later, these
images are ceremoniously immersed in the ocean or a nearby stream or
lake, signifying the creation of Ganesha from the Earth and His return
and dissolution in the ocean of universal consciousness. So intense
has been His presence at this time that even grown men weep at His
auspicious departure. His worship on this day removes obstacles and
ensures smooth progress in all ventures through the year. As Ganesha
is common to all Hindu sects and schools of belief and practice, this
festival is serving both inside and outside of India as a day to
celebrate Hindu unity. As it falls on a working day, the Bharatiya
Temple, like many American temples, has an event which involves
children performing the a simplified version of the ritual or puja, on
the following Sunday (Sept. 7). Many Hindu families will perform the
ritual in their homes, often making special food items such as
'modaka" which are considered Ganesha's favorite. The puja is one that
celebrates nature and may involve the use of fruit, vegetables and
other plant materials (leaves, grass, etc.) depending on the region of
India that one comes from.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
WISDOM Eco-Friendly event on August 24th
WISDOM INVITES YOU TO:
An Eco-friendly Interfaith Event
Join us Sunday, August 24th, 11:30-4:00
Lakeview Pavilion
Addison Oaks County Park
1480 W. Romeo Road, Leonard, Michigan
RAIN or SHINE
Let us . . .
Learn together from Natural Resources Educator, Kathleen Dougherty
Work together on Habitat Restoration Projects –
Play together as friends and families
. . . Games, swimming and a family picnic
· Bring your own picnic lunch and favorite outdoor games.
· Volleyball net, horseshoe pit and barbeque grill on site.
· Water bottles provided by WISDOM
· Bring long sleeve shirts and pants, gloves, insect repellant and sun screen!
Your cost is the Park Entrance Fee of $7 per car
($1 discount coupon can be printed from www.Oakgov.com)
And a $5.00 check made out to WISDOM
Questions? Please call Judy Satterthwaite (248) 651-8918
Please send registration form and your $5.00 check by August 18 to: WISDOM, P.O. Box 525, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303
Name: __________________________, phone #_________________
How many in your family? Adults___ Kids_____ ages of kids _______
Directions to Addison Oaks County Park
Take I-75 North and get off at exit 77 to M-59 East. Go 5.8 Miles and take exit #46 and make a left (North) on M-150 which becomes Rochester Road. Continue for about 12 miles until you come to Romeo Road. Make a left on W. Romeo Road and go 1.7 miles until you arrive at Addison Oaks - 1480 W. Romeo Road which will be on your right.
An Eco-friendly Interfaith Event
Join us Sunday, August 24th, 11:30-4:00
Lakeview Pavilion
Addison Oaks County Park
1480 W. Romeo Road, Leonard, Michigan
RAIN or SHINE
Let us . . .
Learn together from Natural Resources Educator, Kathleen Dougherty
Work together on Habitat Restoration Projects –
Play together as friends and families
. . . Games, swimming and a family picnic
· Bring your own picnic lunch and favorite outdoor games.
· Volleyball net, horseshoe pit and barbeque grill on site.
· Water bottles provided by WISDOM
· Bring long sleeve shirts and pants, gloves, insect repellant and sun screen!
Your cost is the Park Entrance Fee of $7 per car
($1 discount coupon can be printed from www.Oakgov.com)
And a $5.00 check made out to WISDOM
Questions? Please call Judy Satterthwaite (248) 651-8918
Please send registration form and your $5.00 check by August 18 to: WISDOM, P.O. Box 525, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303
Name: __________________________, phone #_________________
How many in your family? Adults___ Kids_____ ages of kids _______
Directions to Addison Oaks County Park
Take I-75 North and get off at exit 77 to M-59 East. Go 5.8 Miles and take exit #46 and make a left (North) on M-150 which becomes Rochester Road. Continue for about 12 miles until you come to Romeo Road. Make a left on W. Romeo Road and go 1.7 miles until you arrive at Addison Oaks - 1480 W. Romeo Road which will be on your right.
SACRED PLACES at the DIA on September 14th
DEAR WISDOM SISTERS!!
NOW AT THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS
THERE IS AN EXHIBITION OF BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHS
ENTITLED “SACRED PLACES” BY KENRO IZU!!
ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2008 STARTING AT 1:00 pm
WISDOM WOULD LIKE TO USE THE OCCASION OF THIS EXHIBIT
TO HOLD BOTH A CELEBRATION AND EXPLORATION
OF PLACES THAT ARE SACRED TO US!!
WE WILL FIRST PARTICIPATE IN A TOUR OF THE IZU EXHIBIT. THIS EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS IMAGES OF RELIGIOUS SITES AND MONUMENTS IN ASIA, THE PACIFIC ISLANDS, THE MIDDLE EAST AND EUROPE. IZU’S IMAGES CONVEY THE SPIRITUAL ESSENCE OF THESE PLACES THAT HAVE RESONATED OVER MILLENNIA WITH PEOPLE OF MANY FAITHS.
THE DIA EXHIBIT TOUR WILL BE FOLLOWED BY OUR OWN “SHOW AND TELL” DISCUSSION, ALLOWING INDIVIDUALS TO SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS AND PHOTOS OF PLACES THAT ARE EITHER SACRED PERSONALLY, OR SACRED TO A FAITH TRADITION. (PLEASE BRING PHOTOS, BUT NOTE THAT
THEY SHOULD BE NO LARGER THAN 8 X 10 – DIA RULE!!.)
AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE DISCUSSION OF OUR “SACRED PLACES,” WE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONTINUE TO EXPLORE OTHER DIA EXHIBITS AND THEN JOIN TOGETHER IN AN OPTIONAL MEAL AT THE TRAFFIC JAM AND SNUG RESTAURANT AT 511 W. CANFIELD, TO CONTINUE OUR DIALOGUE AND GET TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER BETTER.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE KENRO IZU EXHIBIT, PLEASE GO TO WWW.DIA.ORG AND CLICK ON “KENRO IZU: SACRED PLACES EXHIBITION.”
LOCATION: THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS - 5200 WOODWARD AVENUE IN DETROIT. THE MAIN NUMBER IS (313) 833-7900. THE WEEKEND HOTLINE NUMBER IS (313) 833-7530.
MEETING LOCATION: WE WILL ENTER THE DIA THROUGH THE GROUP & EVENT ENTRANCE ON JOHN R. WE WILL ASSEMBLE AND CONDUCT REGISTRATION IN THE PRENTIS COURT.
TIME: REGISTRATIOIN WILL TAKE PLACE BETWEEN 1:00 AND 1:15 PM. PLEASE SEE ATTACHED FLYER FOR THE DETAILED AGENDA FOR THE DAY! PLEASE ARRIVE IN PRENTIS COURT FOR REGISTRATION BY 1:00 pm. YOUR PROMPTNESS WILL BE APPRECIATED BY ALL, SINCE WE CANNOT BEGIN THE TOUR UNTIL ALL THE PARTICIPANTS ARE CHECKED IN.
PARKING:
- VALET PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT THE FARNSWORTH STREET
ENTRANCE
- SECURED SELF-PARKING IS AVAILABLE DIRECTLY BEHIND THE
MUSEUM ON JOHN R STREET
- SELF-PARKING IS AVAILABLE IN THE UNDERGROUND PARKING
GARAGE ON THE CORNER OF WOODWARD AND FARNSWORTH
COST: MUSEUM ENTRY, TOUR AND DISCUSSION $15.00. OPTIONAL DINNER AT THE TRAFFIC JAM IS AT YOUR OWN EXPENSE.
CONTACTS: EVENT CHAIRPERSON – TRISH HARRIS (248) 335-0964
MAIL $15.00 CHECKS TO WISDOM, P.O. BOX 525, BLOOMFIELD HILLS, 48303 BY SEPTEMBER 8, 2008
PLEASE SEE INFORMATION BELOW FOR DETAILED AGENDA AND REGISTRATION
FORM!!
SACRED PLACES
COME JOIN WISDOM AT THE DIA
AS WE EXPLORE WHAT MAKES A PLACE SACRED
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2008
1:00 – 1:15 PM REGISTRATION CHECK –IN (USE GROUP
NOW AT THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS
THERE IS AN EXHIBITION OF BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHS
ENTITLED “SACRED PLACES” BY KENRO IZU!!
ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2008 STARTING AT 1:00 pm
WISDOM WOULD LIKE TO USE THE OCCASION OF THIS EXHIBIT
TO HOLD BOTH A CELEBRATION AND EXPLORATION
OF PLACES THAT ARE SACRED TO US!!
WE WILL FIRST PARTICIPATE IN A TOUR OF THE IZU EXHIBIT. THIS EXHIBIT HIGHLIGHTS IMAGES OF RELIGIOUS SITES AND MONUMENTS IN ASIA, THE PACIFIC ISLANDS, THE MIDDLE EAST AND EUROPE. IZU’S IMAGES CONVEY THE SPIRITUAL ESSENCE OF THESE PLACES THAT HAVE RESONATED OVER MILLENNIA WITH PEOPLE OF MANY FAITHS.
THE DIA EXHIBIT TOUR WILL BE FOLLOWED BY OUR OWN “SHOW AND TELL” DISCUSSION, ALLOWING INDIVIDUALS TO SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS AND PHOTOS OF PLACES THAT ARE EITHER SACRED PERSONALLY, OR SACRED TO A FAITH TRADITION. (PLEASE BRING PHOTOS, BUT NOTE THAT
THEY SHOULD BE NO LARGER THAN 8 X 10 – DIA RULE!!.)
AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE DISCUSSION OF OUR “SACRED PLACES,” WE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONTINUE TO EXPLORE OTHER DIA EXHIBITS AND THEN JOIN TOGETHER IN AN OPTIONAL MEAL AT THE TRAFFIC JAM AND SNUG RESTAURANT AT 511 W. CANFIELD, TO CONTINUE OUR DIALOGUE AND GET TO KNOW ONE ANOTHER BETTER.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE KENRO IZU EXHIBIT, PLEASE GO TO WWW.DIA.ORG AND CLICK ON “KENRO IZU: SACRED PLACES EXHIBITION.”
LOCATION: THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS - 5200 WOODWARD AVENUE IN DETROIT. THE MAIN NUMBER IS (313) 833-7900. THE WEEKEND HOTLINE NUMBER IS (313) 833-7530.
MEETING LOCATION: WE WILL ENTER THE DIA THROUGH THE GROUP & EVENT ENTRANCE ON JOHN R. WE WILL ASSEMBLE AND CONDUCT REGISTRATION IN THE PRENTIS COURT.
TIME: REGISTRATIOIN WILL TAKE PLACE BETWEEN 1:00 AND 1:15 PM. PLEASE SEE ATTACHED FLYER FOR THE DETAILED AGENDA FOR THE DAY! PLEASE ARRIVE IN PRENTIS COURT FOR REGISTRATION BY 1:00 pm. YOUR PROMPTNESS WILL BE APPRECIATED BY ALL, SINCE WE CANNOT BEGIN THE TOUR UNTIL ALL THE PARTICIPANTS ARE CHECKED IN.
PARKING:
- VALET PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT THE FARNSWORTH STREET
ENTRANCE
- SECURED SELF-PARKING IS AVAILABLE DIRECTLY BEHIND THE
MUSEUM ON JOHN R STREET
- SELF-PARKING IS AVAILABLE IN THE UNDERGROUND PARKING
GARAGE ON THE CORNER OF WOODWARD AND FARNSWORTH
COST: MUSEUM ENTRY, TOUR AND DISCUSSION $15.00. OPTIONAL DINNER AT THE TRAFFIC JAM IS AT YOUR OWN EXPENSE.
CONTACTS: EVENT CHAIRPERSON – TRISH HARRIS (248) 335-0964
MAIL $15.00 CHECKS TO WISDOM, P.O. BOX 525, BLOOMFIELD HILLS, 48303 BY SEPTEMBER 8, 2008
PLEASE SEE INFORMATION BELOW FOR DETAILED AGENDA AND REGISTRATION
FORM!!
SACRED PLACES
COME JOIN WISDOM AT THE DIA
AS WE EXPLORE WHAT MAKES A PLACE SACRED
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2008
1:00 – 1:15 PM REGISTRATION CHECK –IN (USE GROUP
& EVENTS ENTRANCE ON JOHN R AND MEET IN
PRENTIS COURT)
1:15 – 2:30 PM TOUR OF THE KENRO IZU EXHIBIT “SACRED
1:15 – 2:30 PM TOUR OF THE KENRO IZU EXHIBIT “SACRED
PLACES” AT THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS
2:30 – 3:30 PM “SHOW AND TELL” GROUP SHARING OF
2:30 – 3:30 PM “SHOW AND TELL” GROUP SHARING OF
THOUGHTS AND PHOTOS OF PLACES THAT
ARE SACRED TO US AND OUR FAITH
TRADITIONS (KRESGE COURT)
3:30 – 5:00 PM OPTIONAL TOUR OF OTHER EXHIBITS AT
3:30 – 5:00 PM OPTIONAL TOUR OF OTHER EXHIBITS AT
THE DIA
5:00 PM OPTIONAL MEAL TOGETHER AT THE TRAFFIC
5:00 PM OPTIONAL MEAL TOGETHER AT THE TRAFFIC
JAM AND SNUG (511 W. CANFIELD) FOR THOSE
NOT FASTING DUE TO RAMADAN
REGISTRATION FORM
NAME: __________________________________________________
ADDRESS: ________________________________________________
REGISTRATION FORM
NAME: __________________________________________________
ADDRESS: ________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
TELEPHONE: ---------------------------------------------------------------(HOME)
-----------------------------------------------------------------(CELL)
EMAIL: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FAITH TRADITION: -----------------------------------------------------------------------
I PLAN TO PARTICIPATE IN:
. DIA EXHIBIT ONLY _________
. DIA EXHIBIT AND ‘SHOW AND TELL’ DISCUSSION ______
. TOUR OF OTHER DIA EXHIBITS FROM 3:30 – 5:00 pm ____
. DINNER AT THE TRAFFIC JAM AND SNUG _______
PLEASE SEND A CHECK FOR $15.00
BY SEPTEMBER 8TH MADE OUT TO WISDOM
AND MAIL TO:
WISDOM, P.O. BOX 525, BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI 48303
QUESTIONS? CALL TRISH HARRIS AT (248) 335-0964
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)