NewsLetter

General Announcements

  • A) Swami’s Centenary Sadhana Offerings

    Increase rigor of Sadhana for our Spiritual transformation/growth and as a Loving Offering to Swami. Please complete this survey no later than February 6.

    B) Service Activities
    February Service Activities

    February 8 Pillow Service
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1KmUvk-y5BMMVyahhwXLR_1go0MrPYM2lpqL7rvXKcWo/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly pillow service is scheduled for Saturday, Feb 8. Please use the sign up sheet above to participate in this service.

    Feb 15 In Person Breakfast
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/147UquSwtR7RLYZZhCOu7rwxlLEl_lsb761h2s41L6Ig/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly in-person breakfast service to support Raleigh men’s shelter is scheduled for Feb 15 at 4:30am to prepare and serve breakfast. You can also sign up for ingredients and drop off by Friday Feb 14 6p at 1507 Gathering Park Circle, Cary 27519 If you are coming for the service, you can bring ingredients along with you. Please use the signup sheet above to participate in this service.

    Feb 15 In Person Dinner
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wmvLPbb2Fn8iD1TgfDN7A2QUJY13ohjojcAbfvWySt4/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly in-person dinner service to support Raleigh men’s shelter is scheduled for Jan 18 at 2:30pm to prepare and serve dinner. You can also sign up for ingredients and drop off by Friday Feb 14 6p at 1507 Gathering Park Circle, Cary 27519. If you are coming for the service, you can bring ingredients along with you. Please use the signup sheet above to participate in this service.

    Feb 16 Drop Off Dinner Service
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qZvyyEYOhz3odLdAf-M4G-o29_cwXu6IZ8MKuCaBgS4/edit?gid=2010958422#gid=2010958422
    Our bi-monthly drop off dinner service to support Raleigh men’s shelter is scheduled for Feb 2 and Feb 16. Please use the sign up sheet above to participate in this service.

    Feb 23 Fresh Fruit Brown Bag
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RwKQr1e8FFJDW-3iXL1iZDJ62VJEOKknwNVr5–0iiQ/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly fresh fruit brown bag service is scheduled for Feb 23. Please drop off all items by Sunday, Feb 23 11a at 1507 Gathering Park Circle, Cary 27519. Please use the sign up sheet above to participate in this service.

    Pediatric Clinic Food Distribution Project

    This bi-weekly project involves distributing grocery bags to Lincoln Community Health Center Pediatric Clinic’s families in need. Any identified family visiting the pediatric clinic who is facing food insecurity will be given a grocery bag filled with dry/canned goods as well as a list of local food resources in the Durham area

    Sign up sheetPediatric Clinic food distribution project

    C) Sai center activities on Sunday Feb 9th at HSNC Rooms 3,4,5,6
    • 3:30 PM-Setup
    • 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM – Parent Study Circle (in HSNC Shirdi Room)
    • 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM – Study Circle – “Forgiveness” – Bro. Subbu
    • 5:00 PM to 5:10 PM – General Announcements
    • 5:10 PM to 6:10 PM – Sai Aaradhan Bhajans, Aarati and Closing Prayers  

    D) ARRYA 2025 | SSSGC National Young Adults Retreat to Kick-off Bhagawan’s Centennial Celebrations!
    Sairam Dear Sai Young Adults!

    We are excited to announce that Region 3’s Annual Regional Retreat for Young Adults has been expanded to the 2025 SSSGC USA National Young Adults Retreat! Let us unite together, as one unified nation-wide Young Adult family to ring in the Centennial of our Lord!

    The USA National YA Retreat will be held Fri Feb 14th – Sun Feb 16th 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina
    Theme: “Hands in the Society, Heads in the Forest”

    E) Volunteer Registration is now open for the Guru Purnima Medical Camp in Parthi

    You are welcome to have the devotees from your country register with the registration links below. Last date for registration is May 10, 2025 for doctors and healthcare professionals

    1. *Medical Professional Registration form*: https://forms.gle/FLM3HQTJDwqvMDdL7

    2. *Allied Health Professional Registration form*: https://forms.gle/ug5My6DR1FAhznw89

    3. *Nurse Registration form*: https://forms.gle/35nrrTGaUomPtqdv8

    4. *Non-Medical Professional Registration form*: https://forms.gle/scxHBEnPpfTpyJNS7

    F) Registration is now open for November 2025 Medical Camp:

    Registrations for providers are now open for volunteers that can render medical services to those who come to the Prasanthi Nilayam Medical Camp for medical needs. Please register by March 1st. That is the deadline set as this year for Swami’s 100 birthday the medical camp will be for 3 weeks. Each medical volunteer is requested to at least volunteer 7 days. Please see below for registration links. Sairam!

    November 8-24, 2025 Prasanthi Nilayam Birthday Medical Camp Registration Forms

    1. Medical Doctors registration form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevVVMQzf0LxhZ_9rW4a_MAERKCZOLwhYnk3Wqf1PXpsf-OzA/viewform?usp=sharing

    2. Allied Professionals Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdAq4diSq7SQZP0zgDYWGaXAdIe1NunhPtkLnYYJZZLXiy9bw/viewform?usp=sharing

    3. Nurses form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd1N19iPw4eJFd_GfqrIm1apTCyklBsTHZJrke0b2Og7N1oQA/viewform?usp=sharing

    G) National Go-Green Team Updates 

    For Swami’s Centennial birthday celebrations, the National Go-Green has taken an initiative to take 100 steps to become a Go-Green champion at home, school, work. As part of that effort, the team releases video every week on specific topics. Please click here to view Week4 slide.

    H) Regional Updates 

    Please visit regional section at https://raleighsaicenter.org/newsletter/#regional for important announcements :

    • Weekly update for the week of Feb 9, 2025 from Prasanthi Connection Zone 1 Committee
    • Ati Rudra Maha Yagnam in Parthi – February 2025 registrations link
    • Volunteer Registration is now open for the Guru Purnima Medical Camp in Parthi

Devotion

  • Sai Center Activities Schedule

    Sai center activities on Sunday Feb 9th at HSNC Rooms 3,4,5,6 :

    • 3:30 PM – Setup
    • 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM – Study Circle – “Forgiveness” – Bro. Subbu
    • 5:00 PM to 5:10 PM – General Announcements
    • 5:10 PM to 6:10 PM – Sai Aaradhan Bhajans, Aarati and Closing Prayers  


  • Study circle Summary :

    How are one’s internal impulses purified? Four types of offenses in speech (part 2)

    In Part 2, we delved into Swami’s teachings on achieving control over speech by managing the four internal senses: mind, intellect, memory, and ego. The mind, as the seat of thoughts and emotions, plays a critical role in governing our actions and speech. Swami emphasized the cultivation of a calm and focused mind through practices like meditation and self-reflection, enabling better control over thoughts and the expression of positive and uplifting words. We practiced meditation to silence our mind.

    We explored the concept of Mano-mounam, the silence of the mind, which allows the power of the atma to manifest, making the intellect more active than the senses. This heightened intellect is essential for guiding our speech, enabling us to evaluate the consequences of our words and ensuring their wisdom, consideration, and benefit to all.

    Memory, as the storehouse of past experiences, influences our speech. Swami encouraged the cultivation of a positive and pure memory by focusing on uplifting experiences and lessons from the past while letting go of negative ones. By drawing from positive memories, we infuse our words with love, compassion, and wisdom, uplifting others in the process.

    The role of the ego in speech was briefly discussed, emphasizing the importance of letting go of the need for self-assertion and superiority, creating an atmosphere of harmony and understanding. We also touched upon the significance of purifying the mind and curb ego through helpfulness, compassion, service, and surrendering completely to Bhagawan.

    In summary, we recognized the need for constant, steadfast, and sincere sadhana, as well as unwavering commitment to adhering to Swami’s teachings. By doing so, we can stay away from the four sins that the tongue commits and better manage the on/off switch for both the mind and the tongue. Jai Sairam!

 

  • Bhajan of the week

    Deity: Devi
    Raag: Tilang

    Taal: 8 Beat / Keherwa / Adi

    Lyrics:

    Devi Bhavani Jagat Janani
    Manda Haasini Ananda Dayini [ Devi Bhavani … ]
    Mangala Kaarini Karunya Roopini
    Narayani Devi Narayani
    Mahishasura Mardhini Ambe Bhavani
    Meaning:

    Glory to Goddess Bhavani, the Mother of Universe and the destroyer of cycle of birth and death. She has a bewitching smile and she confers bliss. She confers auspiciousness and is the embodiment of mercy. Worship Goddess Narayani. She is the annihilator of the demon Mahisha. She is worshipped as Goddess Amba.

    Bhajan Link:

    https://youtu.be/mMX0IyRdwS0?si=4qA9qioMNhCJp9jm

Service

  • RSC Service Activities
    NEW  ANNOUNCEMENT(S):

    February Service Activities:

    Feb 2 and Feb 16 Drop Off Dinner Service

    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1qZvyyEYOhz3odLdAf-M4G-o29_cwXu6IZ8MKuCaBgS4/edit?gid=2010958422#gid=2010958422
    Our bi-monthly drop off dinner service to support Raleigh men’s shelter is scheduled for Feb 2 and Feb 16. Please use the sign up sheet above to participate in this service.

    February 8 Pillow Service
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1KmUvk-y5BMMVyahhwXLR_1go0MrPYM2lpqL7rvXKcWo/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly pillow service is scheduled for Saturday, Feb 8. Please use the sign up sheet above to participate in this service.

    Feb 15 In Person Breakfast
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/147UquSwtR7RLYZZhCOu7rwxlLEl_lsb761h2s41L6Ig/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly in-person breakfast service to support Raleigh men’s shelter is scheduled for Feb 15 at 4:30am to prepare and serve breakfast. You can also sign up for ingredients and drop off by Friday Feb 14 6p at 1507 Gathering Park Circle, Cary 27519 If you are coming for the service, you can bring ingredients along with you. Please use the signup sheet above to participate in this service.

    Feb 15 In Person Dinner
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wmvLPbb2Fn8iD1TgfDN7A2QUJY13ohjojcAbfvWySt4/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly in-person dinner service to support Raleigh men’s shelter is scheduled for Jan 18 at 2:30pm to prepare and serve dinner. You can also sign up for ingredients and drop off by Friday Feb 14 6p at 1507 Gathering Park Circle, Cary 27519. If you are coming for the service, you can bring ingredients along with you. Please use the signup sheet above to participate in this service.

    Feb 23 Fresh Fruit Brown Bag
    Sign up sheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RwKQr1e8FFJDW-3iXL1iZDJ62VJEOKknwNVr5–0iiQ/edit?gid=0#gid=0
    Our monthly fresh fruit brown bag service is scheduled for Feb 23. Please drop off all items by Sunday, Feb 23 11a at 1507 Gathering Park Circle, Cary 27519. Please use the sign up sheet above to participate in this service.

    Pediatric Clinic Food Distribution Project 

    This bi-weekly project involves distributing grocery bags to Lincoln Community Health Center Pediatric Clinic’s families in need. Any identified family visiting the pediatric clinic who is facing food insecurity will be given a grocery bag filled with dry/canned goods as well as a list of local food resources in the Durham area

    Signup for pediatric clinic food distribution project

    To participate in active service projects, please see list below.
    Service name and Date/time Service Activity Details Locations & Sign up
    Sunday Food Service: Men’s shelter – Raleigh (Every alternate Sunday)   Preparing food at Volunteer homes and drop at common place. Volunteer will deliver at Raleigh Men’s shelter by 2pm 1420 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601. Please click here to sign up for Sunday service.
    SAI Tutoring Program Volunteers provide weekly one to one tutoring via Zoom to an underserved elementary school student from the Durham Public School district. The focus is on ELA and math enrichment and also providing mentorship. NOTE: Please contact service@raleighsaicenter.org if you are interested in getting involved.
    Growing Sai’s Love – Garden project RSC’s pilot program Growing Sai’s Love to help our Sai Community members get more self-reliant by learning to grow their own fresh, healthy vegetables, fruits, flowers, in their backyard. Members can also use these for service and center activities. NOTE: Please contact service coordinator service@raleighsaicenter.org if you would like to participate in this service.
    Raleigh Men’s shelter Breakfast service Monthly Breakfast service on 3rd Saturday to support Raleigh Men’s Shelter. Please drop off items at 719 McRae Rd, Cary on 3rd Friday of the month by 7pm so volunteers can take supplies to the shelter on Saturday morning to cook and serve breakfast.
    Recycling project Recycling project that involves used batteries, medication(s), small electronics and bulbs.  NOTEPlease contact service coordinator service@raleighsaicenter.org if you would like to participate in this service.
    Pediatric Clinic Food Distribution Project This bi-weekly project involves distributing grocery bags to Lincoln Community Health Center Pediatric Clinic’s families in need. Any identified family visiting the pediatric clinic who is facing food insecurity will be given a grocery bag filled with dry/canned goods as well as a list of local food resources in the Durham area. Signup sheet has instructions and Grocery list
     Food drive for Inter-faith Food Shuttle, Durham by Group 3 SSSE Students every month  Group 3 SSSE students form leads in their communities and conduct food drive. Please contact Group 3 teachers for more information. Collected food will be delivered during first week of every month atInter-faith Food Shuttle

    2436 S. Miami Blvd, Suite 200-9

    Durham, NC

SSSE

  • Pre-SSSE

    CLASS DATE: 01/26/2025 TEACHERS:    Bhuvana , Radhika and Devi, Lakshmi
    SUMMARY:  Kindness ATTENDANCE: 
    We started class with 3 Oms and Gayathri.

    Then we all visited Swami in our hearts.

    We wrapped up on feelings and how we handle them. Then started discussion on kindness.
    We asked the kids how they show kindness?
    What they will do when they see a friend or sibling sad?
    What are some kind or polite words?
    Children actively participated in the discussions.

    We played a game on the class theme.

    Then it was time for bhajan practice with Bhuvana aunty. They practiced Swami take my hand and You my mother.

    After a short snack break, children enjoyed drawing time.
    Lastly they enjoyed playing red light and green light with Sai Deepa aunty.

    We finished the class with the closing prayer.

    Activity for the week:
    Say Thank You to mom or dad when they make breakfast for you.

  • SSSE group1

     

     CLASS  DATE: 02/2/25

    TEACHER(S): Sunita,Nitya
     Topic:  Food is god.  Attendance:  
    Spiritual Principle: right Action

    2/2

    The class started with 3 oms followed by 3 sai Gayathris, Gayathri mantra, and we reviewed the food prayer. We practiced Silent sitting for 1 Minute.

    Last week we learned about healthy food choices and this week we transitioned to the food wastage and effects of food wastage.

    . 1 out of 6 Americans do not have food to eat
    . Food thrown in the garbage produces a gas called methane which causes climate change.
    We can choose to take only the amount we want to eat and go in for second helpings rather than take all at once in the plate.

    Swami has said “Annam Brahma meaning Food is god. So do not waste food because Food is god, Life is god and man is born from food. Food is the main source of Man’s body, mind and Character”.

    These points were taught to the kids through a skit that we teachers enacted. Do talk to them about it to know more.

    Food prayer:
    Brahmārpañam Brahma Havir BrahmāgnauBrahmañāhutaṃ,
    Brahmaiva Tena Gantavyam BrahmakarmāSamādhinah.
    AhamVaishvānaroBhutvā PrāñināmḌehamāshritaha,
    PrāñāpānaSamāyuktah PachāmyannamChaturvidham

    Finally We learnt the bhajans for sai madhuram that’s coming up on Feb 23rd and lingashtakam.

    Mana bangaru parthi baba- http://www.saimelodies.org/Songs/Detail/449

    Punya naam Pavithra naam – http://www.saimelodies.org/Songs/Detail/79

    Lingashtakam
    https://vignanam.org/english/lingashtakam.html.

    Affirmation: I will not waste food.

    Note to parents :

    Life application: Spiritual Diary—5 activities–Prayer, Silent sitting,Keeping bags and shoes in place, finishing the water bottle, choosing a healthy snack.Please create a february calendar to continue.

    Bhajans

    1/26- Punya naam Pavithra naam

    1/19- Mana bangaru parthi baba

    12/8 – Saibaba Saibaba sathya sai avatar – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEW19xS0P_Y

    11/3 –  Vittala Hari Vittala : https://saimelodies.org/Songs/Detail/981
    http://saimelodies.org/Songs/Detail/1467

    https://saimelodies.org/Songs/Detail/945

  • SSSE-Group2

    CLASS  DATE: 02/02/25 TEACHER(S):  2A – Hima, Lalitha; 2B – Sumithra, Sharanya
    Theme: Self-Confidence  Attendance:  27/42

    Summary of this week’s class:

    Class 2A:

    The session began with prayers, followed by silent sitting and learning the first 25 names of Swami from the Sri Sathya Sai Ashtothra Shata Namavali. Kids are doing a fantastic job reciting the ashtothrams with full energy and enthusiasm! Please take a moment to listen to them! We are very proud of each and every student for their tremendous progress! 

    We had a quick recap of last week’s session on gratitude and recollected the respective stories and activities. Kids are slowly making a habit of writing their daily gratitude in either a blue folder or in their notebook. Please remind them until they develop this precious habit of being grateful. 

    We are marching towards focusing on the self! The first most important of this is Self Confidence. As Swami says, self confidence is the foundation, kids were taught to be self confident, ways to boost their confidence, how to recognize the lack of confidence, when they lack their confidence and tips to recover back quickly. We picked on the little sparrow story from Swami’s Chinna Katha series and through this story, they learned the wings of faith and self confidence that we all possess. 

    We did a quick fun mirror experiment on self confidence (please check with your kid for details). Kids then learned their own strengths and ways to compliment each other by playing this self confidence board game for the group activity. Please ask them to share their strengths daily and appreciate each one of them in your own unique way. This will help them build their confidence and make them happy. Class concluded with closing prayers.

    Class 2B:

    In yesterday’s class we learned about Self confidence . We started with a Chinna katha narrated by Swami to his school students about a small bird caught in a storm and how self confidence and Faith helped him. Children were asked to share an experience how their self confidence helped them during a challenging time and how they felt about it.

    We discussed how Swami accomplished huge service projects with his self confidence. We played a game to learn more about self confidence and feeling good about ourselves.

    We ended our class with closing prayers.

    Discussion points for parents:

    1. Ask them to narrate the Chinna katha.
    2. Share your experience on how self confidence and faith in God  helped you in a challenging situation with your child.

    Also, as part of Bhagawan’s centenary celebrations, the Go Green team will be sharing tips every week under the program titled ‘Become an Eco champ’. Please see week 4 slide here

  • SSSE-Group3

    CLASS  DATE:    10/20/2024

    TEACHER(S): Nalini, Gangadher, Sravanti, Shiva
    Topic: Swami’s Avathar Declaration Day  Attendance: 21
    SaiRam dear parents, Please find the class notes below:

    We began our class with vedam chanting, Ganapathi Prarthana, Medhasuktham 2nd stanza, and concluded with Kshama Prarthana. We also practiced bhajans for Sai Madhuram.

    The boys sang “Sarvatra govinda nama sankeerthana,” and the girls sang “Love… “

    On Sunday, October 20th, we celebrated Swami’s Avatar Declaration Day.

    We discussed Swami’s childhood memories and watched a video presentation. The students actively participated and shared their knowledge of Swami’s childhood. On Avatar Declaration Day, Swami revealed that he is God. He also said, “You too are God.” He entered our lives, and we are all chosen by him. As a gesture of gratitude, we should show a positive change in our daily conduct. Our thoughts, words, and actions should be pure. Swami is the center of our lives. He is in control, and we should be happy, fearless, and obedient. We need God’s guidance to make the right choices in life, Just as we respond when called by our name, calling out to God’s name brings God’s presence and protection close to us.

    We practiced writing Om Sri Sai Ram with a one-minute timer and chanting His name silently, reminding the students of the peace and focus that comes from Namasmarana.

    We concluded the class by singing the first bhajan taught by Swami, “Manasa Bhajare Guru charanam.”

  • SSSE-Group4

    Sairam All!The Group4 class on Feb 3rd 2025 (attended by 14/19 students) started with 3x OMs, 1x Gayatri Mantra and Saraswati Shloka. As the day coincided with Basant Panchami, the students pondered on the importance of Devi Saraswati, another form of Devi Gayatri, bestowing the blessings of knowledge and arts. Students also recalled from the previous SSSE classes that Saraswati represents the “Power of Speech”. Continuing the class on “Mastery of Senses – 1. Speech”, we watched a very interesting short video on the experiment conducted by Dr. Masaru Emoto on Water and how the shape of the frozen water crystal changes when certain words are spoken. The images in the video illustrate the powerful impact of spoken words, highlighting the positive influence of kind words versus the harmful effects of negative ones. All students observed and agreed that the water molecules appeared beautiful when exposed to positive words but looked distorted when subjected to negativity. Given that the human body is composed of approximately 70% water, this experiment reinforces the profound effect our words have—not only on ourselves but also on the world around us

    We then watched another short video demonstrating the impact of words on cooked rice stored in jars. One jar was spoken to with words of love, while the other received words of hate. The results were clear: after two weeks, the rice in the ‘Love’ jar remained fluffy and fresh, whereas the ‘Hate’ jar began decomposing, developing black mold. Inspired by the experiment, the students agreed to try it at home with their families and share their findings in the next class.

    We then continued understanding the importance of speaking the truth and how and when it must be spoken using the shloka from Manusmitri – satyaṃ brūyāt, priyaṃ brūyāt, na brūyāt satyamapriyam |
    priyaṃ ca nānṛtaṃ brūyāt eṣa dharmaḥ sanātanaḥ || 138 ||

    We then discussed the definition of the above shloka:

    Speak what is true; Speak what is agreeable; DO NOT Speak what is true, but disagreeable or unpleasant; nor speak what is agreeable, but untrue; this is the eternal law.—(138)

    “Speak the truth, speak what is pleasant, do not speak the truth that is unpleasant. Even if it is pleasant, do not speak untruth. This is the path of eternal righteousness”.

    To further emphasize the power of spoken words, we watched a short video about an experiment conducted by IKEA on plants. The experiment demonstrated how compliments and kind words can help a plant flourish and grow, while negative words and bullying caused another plant to wilt and deteriorate. All students observed the impact of hurtful words and bullying on the plant and agreed that positive words help us grow and thrive, whereas unkind words can cause harm.

    Following this, students participated in a two-minute guided self-assessment, reflecting on their tone, kindness, and choice of words. They then rated themselves with a red, yellow, or green indicator based on their current awareness. Afterward, each student wrote a letter to Swami, surrendering their sense of speech and asking for guidance. They were encouraged to take these letters home and offer them to Swami (his picture) in their room as a reminder of their commitment.

    Students were also introduced to techniques for managing harsh responses in emotionally charged situations. They were encouraged to adopt any technique they resonated with as a life application and share their experiences in future classes. The session concluded with Om and three Shantis.

    Sairam Parents –

    1. Please sign and return the forms ( https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1f3O6VRb9s8A0wW-_XfKY0xH0HQIHSP66UemD-B6mFHI/edit ) which include media consent and parent pledge.
    2. Please remember and remind the children that classes this year will be held every Sunday 3:45 – 4:45 pm in Room 9 at HSNC.  Exceptions for classes periodically with Service Projects, RSC Events (GAB, Swami’s Birthday, etc) and National SSSE guest speakers will occur.  These will be announced in advance.  Note as mentioned no class on January 26th due to Service Project.
    3. Slides of the class when applicable will be shared with the Students/Parents via the WhatsApp groups.

    Thank You!

    – Group 4 Teachers.

    Jai Sai Ram!

Young Adults (YA) Updates

  • 1) ARRYA2025 | SSSGC National Young Adults Retreat to Kick-off Bhagawan’s Centennial Celebrations! – REGISTRATION IS OPEN
    Sairam Dear Sai Young Adults!
    We are excited to announce that Region 3’s Annual Regional Retreat for Young Adults has been expanded to the 2025 SSSGC USA National Young Adults Retreat! Let us unite together, as one unified nation-wide Young Adult family to ring in the Centennial of our Lord!
    The USA National YA Retreat will be held Fri Feb 14th – Sun Feb 16th 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina
    Theme: “Hands in the Society, Heads in the Forest”
    Registration link  is now open and closes on Fri Jan 17th 2025.

    2) GAYATHRI BEADS BRACELET SERVICE

    SERVICE TO MAN IS SERVICE TO GOD
    Sairam,
    We will chant and energize beads using the power of Gayathri Mantra, make them into bracelets and offer it to people in need like hospital patients and people in senior care homes.
    Steps to follow:
    TAKE ONE BEAD IN YOUR HAND
    CHANT GAYATHRI MANTHRA 108 TIMES WHILE HOLDING THE BEAD
    AFTER CHANTING 108 TIMES, PRAY THIS BEAD HELP SOMEONE
    KEEP THIS ENERGIZED BEAD SAFELY IN A SEPARATE BAG FROM THE OTHER BEADS
    PRAY AND ENERGIZE AS MANY AS POSSIBLE
    ONCE READY, EMAIL  ya@raleighsaicenter.org  TO DELIVER AND RECEIVE MORE BEADS
    BEADS WILL BE CONVERTED TO BRACELETS AND GIVEN TO HOSPITAL PATIENTS OR SENIOR CARE HOMES
 

Seniors Corner

  • Seniors group :

    1. PRAYER BRACELET PROJECT FOR THE PATIENTS AT WAKEMED HOSPITAL:   This project was initiated by senior members of the Raleigh Sai Center, in collaboration with the Senior Club of Hindu Society of North Carolina (HSNC) and the members of Raleigh Sai Center. Bracelets are made with 18 crystal glass beads and filler beads for men and women. Members recite Gayatri Mantra or similar prayer based on their religious background 108 times with each glass bead. Bracelets are put in small cloth bags (stitched by the members) along with a printed message from the WakeMed Hospital. These bracelets are given to the interested patients by the hospital volunteers. Each month hospital volunteers are requesting 30-40 bracelets. Patients are very much appreciative of having the prayer bracelets during their convalescence. Photo of a bracelet offering can be seen below:
      https://drive.google.com/file/d/177CLfNxjNoLJKkdD8RW9q0EuVvV1985t/view?usp=share_link

     2. RSC  Seniors Group is planning to make the Vibuthi Packets for distribution during  Aradhana Day, Easwaramma Day, Guru Poornima and Swami’s birthday celebrations. Our Senior Group is doing this as a spiritual sadhana of writing “Aum Sri Sairam” on one side of the paper and then cut the paper into four parts, include vibuthi in the unwritten side and fold the paper to make vibuthi packets for distribution. 

    3. Some members of the Senior Group are meeting virtually on Thursday afternoons at 3:00 pm to discuss the application of Swami’s messages in their everyday lives. If you are interested in participating in the virtual meetings or to participate in seva activities with senior’s, please email:   seniors@raleighsaicenter.org

Interest Groups Updates

Regional Update

  • Centenary Medical Programs and Seva Opportunities :

    With Swami’s Grace numerous opportunities are available for doctors, nurses, and medical professionals along with non-medical volunteers from around the globe to join together with our brothers and sisters from India to offer services to Bhagawan over this historic centenary celebratory year. Please inform and encourage all to participate.
    1. Guru Purnima Medical Camp July 7-11
    Location: N1 building
    2. Global Cardiovascular Symposium for Medical Professionals Sept 27-28
    Prasanthi Nilayam has been chosen as an official site for 2025 by the World Heart Federation (WHF) (https://world-heart-federation.org/)
    Screening Seva Activities will be offered on September 27
    Preventive Medical Conference hosted by the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences (SSSIHMS), University of Texas, Baylor Medical College, USA and University of Rochester, New York, USA.
    3. World Heart Day Celebrations Sept 29
    Public awareness campaign and activities
    https://world-heart-federation.org/world-heart-day/

    4. November Medical Seva
    Support during Centenary Celebrations
    Services to be made available Nov 8 -26 at multiple sites in and around ashram

    Registration is now open for the Guru Purnima Medical Camp.
    You are welcome to have the devotees from your country register with the registration links below. Last date for registration is May 10, 2025 for doctors and healthcare professionals
    1. Medical Professional Registration form: https://forms.gle/FLM3HQTJDwqvMDdL7

    2. Allied Health Professional Registration form: https://forms.gle/ug5My6DR1FAhznw89

    3. Nurse Registration form: https://forms.gle/35nrrTGaUomPtqdv8

    4. Non-Medical Professional Registration form: https://forms.gle/scxHBEnPpfTpyJNS7

    Registration is now open for November 2025 Medical Camp:
    Registrations for providers are now open for volunteers that can render medical services to those who come to the Prasanthi Nilayam Medical Camp for medical needs. Please register by March 1st. That is the deadline set as this year for Swami’s 100 birthday the medical camp will be for 3 weeks. Each medical volunteer is requested to at least volunteer 7 days. Please see below for registration links. Sairam!

    Registration for the other events will be made available at a later date.

    Prasanthi Connection Team:

    Sairam Dear All,

    Please see the weekly update for the week of February 3 – February 9, 2025 from Prasanthi Connection Zone 1 Committee. Following up with the zone chairs email, for your convenience Prasanthi Connection Zone 1 team is including the information and links below:

    – Email – Week updates of February 3 – February 9, 2025
    Email link: https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/941190/emails/144740117482832982

    – Center Announcements –
    Download Slide link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DCCnacgkUZrFJutlE1QGlfMe57ffSbEx

    – “Your Prasanthi Connection’s” – Centennial Birthday Video Offering
    Sis. Rekha Ramnath Video URL: https://youtu.be/1m_Gm1QhaGs
    – Need Help with your visit to Prasanthi Nilayam, Puttaparthi, India?
    Call us at: +1 (909) 736-0119 or Email us at: zone1@prasanthiconnection.org or Web: coming soon

    Sai Ram,
    Prasanthi Connection Team

    ***************************************************************************************************************

    Ati Rudra Maha Yagnam in Parthi – February 2025.

    Please refer below the message from Region President:

    Sai Ram Dear SSSGC Family,

    As a part of the Centenary Celebrations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the historic Sri Sathya Sai Satamanam Visva Santhi Lok Kalyana Ati Rudra Maha Yagnam is being performed at the Sai Kulwant Hall at Prasanthi Nilayam from 14th to 25th February 2025.

    SSSGC members, who are well-versed in chanting and who are able to participate in the entire program, starting with morning of 13th of February for an orientation and leaving the day after 25th of February may register for selection for special seating closer to the shrine to chant together as a group. Registration must be complete prior to 31st December 2024.

    Loving Regards,
    ——-
    Dr. Axay Shanti Kalathia
    SSSGC, Zone 1 Chair

    *************************************************************************************************************

Media Repository

  • The media repository for all past events is now available in our main page under this link. If you need the password, please email info@raleighsaicenter.org

Sai Center Officers

  • Officer Role
    Name
    Email Address
    President
    Nandu Srinivasan
    president@raleighsaicenter.org
    Vice-President
    Venkat Chadalawada
    vp@raleighsaicenter.org
    Education (SSSE) Co-ordinator
    Jagruti Mariwalla
    education@raleighsaicenter.org
    Devotional Co-ordinator
    Mallikarjuna S Tallavajjula
    devotion@raleighsaicenter.org
    Service Co-ordinator
    Manisha Dass
    service@raleighsaicenter.org
    YA Co-ordinator(s)
    Manjari Boggarapu, Krishna Kumar Ramachandran
    ya@raleighsaicenter.org

    If you have any questions, please email the respective office bearer. Click here to access their phone numbers (password protected).

Thought for the Week

  • What should we do to prepare ourselves for Atma Vidya or knowledge about the Self? Bhagawan explains today lovingly and clearly with practical examples!

    It is a hard job to know about your own Self. Take the case of the food that you eat with your own mouth. You feel it in your stomach and after that, you do not experience what happens to it at each stage. How then can you know, without acquiring the special knowledge about it, the Truth that lies behind the sheaths that encase and enclose you – the Annamaya, Pranamaya, Manomaya, Vijnanamaya and Anandamaya – (sheaths of material, vital energy, mind, intelligence and bliss)? Clear your intellect or intellectual power (dheeshakti) of the cobwebs of ego, the dust of desire, the soot of greed and envy, and it becomes a fit instrument for revealing the Swarupa – the Inner Truth. “Know yourself, know the Inner Motivator, the Antaryamin” – that is the exhortation of the scriptures of all faiths. For, unless you are armed with spiritual knowledge, you are like a ship without a compass, sailing on a stormy sea!

    – Divine Discourse, Apr 16, 1964  BABA