27-29TH JULY 2007
This retreat was almost fully booked when I asked Swamiji if it would be possible to participate on this most auspicious occasion. So it was with eager anticipation that I secured the final place as Jenny Newman was bringing a group of eight of her students. Therefore, apart from Raj, Jenny and of course Swamiji, all the other members of the group were unknown to me but we soon became a family.
I was the last to arrive at the Centre but I was just in time to join the group for the introductory session. I know from past experience just how important this first session is as it sets the theme for the whole of the retreat. The emphasis on this occasion was Guru Puja and the significance of the Havan Yajna. The group learnt to chant the introductory verses that precede the actual Havan Yajna ceremony (these are not normally chanted at the monthly Satsangs) and we were also shown how to purify the body before the sacred fire is lit.
As mentioned above this was the theme for the whole weekend so it was very spiritual and of course special. Jenny took the morning asana sessions and as Swamiji was unavailable for the first morning session on Saturday, the morning chanting was also led by Jenny.
After breakfast on Saturday Swamiji recapped on the previous evenings chants but although we didn’t light the sacred fire on this occasion we did chant all of the verses.
Throughout the whole of the retreat guests/members of the Centre also participated. Lynn Power (Life Member and Trustee) visited us on Saturday. The weather had cleared after breakfast and so when we returned from our walk it was lovely to see her. Premanand Ji also came that day and stayed for the rest of the retreat.
Sunday followed a similar pattern to Saturday but this time Swamiji led the early morning chanting. As this was a very auspicious occasion Swamiji asked us to forgo our breakfast porridge (we all ate this just before we were about to depart for home) and just to eat fruit. Our numbers swelled significantly as Shirley brought two guests and other members of the Centre also came to participate in the event. Phil and Premanand Ji each provided musical recitations. The retreat concluded with a short question and answer session followed by a meditation.
I really enjoyed every moment of my stay at the Centre and particularly on this very auspicious occasion as it more than fulfilled my highest expectations. I hope that this short report has whetted your appetite and that you will come and support Swami Indrananda in any future retreats/courses that are being held at the Ashram.
Dear Avril,
Are you the Avril Kirk, who married Inge Oscarsson circa 1962 and came to Sweden to live with him for a time? He is now 81 and writing about his life, which includes you. I am a friend of his in Sweden.
Please let me know at the above address. He would be very pleased to have a contact with you.
Best regards,
Katarina Wallin