Three congregational programmes happening today. First was a devotee weekend retreat at a temple over in east London. The theme was practical preaching for congregational members and Jayapataka Swami was the main speaker. A mini-Rathayatra was part of the weekend. We’ve been having some brilliant sunshine over the past few days – quite remarkable for this country (that’s why I’m remarking on it) – and its giving a new mood to our events.
Second was a feature talk given by Gaura Gopala das from the Chowpatty temple in Mumbai. A young but excellent public speaker he has been out every evening in different homes or in the temple enlivening the community 70,80, or 100 at a time. He is here with fellow brahmacari Siksastakam das who will also be speaking to our small groups in Milton Keynes and in Cambridge tomorrow evening.
Third was a ‘Kirtan on the Thames’ boat programme with Indradyumna Swami. 230 devotees aboard a riverboat plying down the Thames River from the Houses of Parliament right down to the Thames Barrier and back again, with kirtan and talks. I was on that one, and finished up the day by leading half an hour of kirtan.
Fourth and Fifth of course were the regular Sunday programmes at both London temples. I would say that was quite a busy Sunday with lots of events to choose from for our congregation.
Below is a poster for the monthly ‘Lads Event’ where the brahmacaris invite students to hear something helpful, to chant in kirtan, and to eat all they can. Happened last night.
