Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat

The Sri Sathya Sai Baba Organization of the Mid-Atlantic Region held its 37^th Annual Retreat recently at Camp Westmont nestled in the heart of the beautiful Pocono Mountains. The theme being, “Why Fear When I am Still Here!” the retreat drew over 950 Sai devotees to the annual Memorial Day weekend event held on 325 acres of rolling hills in Wayne County, PA. Despite having left His physical body, our dear Swami clearly showed that He continues to walk with us each and every day.

According to Regional President Prity Bhatt, “With abundant grace and blessings from our Lord, another memorable and joy-filled retreat was experienced by all. Swami provided many opportunities for us to experience His Divine presence. We witnessed the theme of the retreat unfolding in many ways. Over and over, He showed us that He has been with us, is with us, and will be with us.”

The retreat was a textbook lesson in living Swami’s teachings through surrendering and working together in unity. Mrs. Bhatt noted that, “It is hard to fathom how everything came together. It was only made possible by His love and grace.” She explained that two weeks before the retreat, the chief architect for the devotional hall stage became seriously ill. However, a backup team was formed, and for the fifth year members pitched in to turn the camp’s basketball court into a beautiful sacred space. “People worked day and night, and over and over, whenever a difficulty arose, Swami did not allow us to despair,” said Mrs. Bhatt.

She said, “We felt His love and presence in many ways—warm greetings of Sairam upon entering the camp grounds, a welcoming smile at the registration or seva [help] desk, listening to favorite bhajans [devotional songs], or hearing a story/anecdote from one of the esteemed guest speakers resulting in an “aha” moment.”

Other moments included being transported to Prasanthi when looking at Swami’s picture at the altar, finding peace when meditating in Swami’s room, learning a practical tip about Swami’s teachings in one of the workshops, being nourished by delicious prasadam [consecrated food] in the dining hall, and being cared for during the medical/health camp.

A highlight of the retreat was the heartfelt and touching speeches by keynote speakers on Saturday and Sunday that included Dr. Narendranath Reddy, Dr. Rupak Changkakoti, and Mrs. Sarojini Changkakoti. Each shared intimate stories about interacting with our dear Lord in their youth as a result of their families having served Swami for several generations.

Dr, Reddy discussed the qualities and duty of a good devotee when Swami takes care of us.  He noted that, “Swami has said that following My teachings and My instructions will do better than meditation. Swami wants us to realize that we are embodiments of Divine atma [soul], to realize our true nature is divinity, and to help others to realize it, too.” Dr. Reddy pointed out other qualities included having faith in oneself, having faith in the scriptures, and having complete faith in God. “Faith is the foundation, and when there is true faith, there is love.”

The Changkakotis narrated very touching stories about having to put their faith in action when despite their devotion, stressful challenges would arise.  Dr. Rupak Changkakoti told a moving story about having to have faith when Swami asked him to move to Canada to spread Swami’s teachings, only to be unemployed for months during the time when the fiber optics industry took a downturn.

Mrs. Changkakoti captivated the audience with a story about being a young girl and demanding that Swami give her proof that her father was safe when word came that he had fallen ill in another city. Swami would indeed give a sign, filling her family’s prayer room with an exceedingly sweet fragrance and piles of vibhuti [sacred ash].

Dr. Changkakoti later delighted the audience with some bhajans that he had sung for Swami on several occasions.  Mrs. Changkakoti then led the audience in a powerful and heart-opening meditation.

Following lunch, Professor Anantharaman, the recently appointed media spokesman for the Sai Organization and the Central Trust, treated us to a thought-provoking talk. He discussed the difficulties that arose within the organization following the Lord’s transition, when negative media was being disseminated. A long-time professor at Swami’s university, Professor Anantharaman explained, “We did not know how to deal with the media originally,” noting that Swami had not talked to the media in years. He stated that if Swami’s true message is to continue to flourish worldwide, “it must come through his devotees and students.”

The four-day retreat was blessed with perfect weather, and many devotees participated in the early morning Omkar, Suprabhatam, and Nagarsankirtan [all form of prayer] activities that ended with rousing bhajans in front of Swami’s room.

The East Brunswick and Bridgewater centers lovingly put together Swami’s room. That was a favorite spot for many who dropped in to meditate at the lotus feet of our dear Lord. According to South Besthesda President Dr. Sivakumar Sreenivasan, “The fact that one can experience His love no matter where you are and in what you do came true at the retreat. I was one among the four-team leads responsible for maintaining cleanliness of the Swami room during the retreat. What an opportunity! We did four-hour shifts at a time. It was incredibly fulfilling, and it was something that I looked forward to during my four days at the retreat. Never was there ever a feeling that I was missing a program while I was in the Swami room. He also made sure that every petty desire was fulfilled.”

During the weekend, a variety of workshops and other activities were available for center members to take part in, including a workshop on light-meditation led by regional vice president Douglas Gaum; a raw food workshop taught by Ella Gurevich, and a quilt-making session facilitated by the East Brunswick Center members.

For cultural lovers, the retreat featured a concert by ‘Whistling Wizard’ Mr. K. Sivaprasad, who regaled the audience during a 90-minute presentation in which he whistled bhajans in a melodic, flute-like voice. The young adults presented a play, “Children of Immortality,” that delighted audience members with its high-quality acting and messages from Swami’s teachings. Other activities included rousing, gospel-tinged English bhajans with the Bailey Family, game time with the SSE children, and an evening campfire.

Rhajen Ghayal and his wife, Geeta, noted that it was their 31st year of overseeing the kitchen activities, an enormous task that included ordering food for all the centers preparing meals. The East Brunswick Center couple starts working in April to buy all the items that each center needs for its menu. According to Rhajen, the task calls for a great deal of organization, but he is happy to do it because of the joy that goes into preparing the meals. “When individuals cut the vegetables, they sing beautiful bhajans, and all the food is charged with God’s name. Whether you are a Sai devotee or not, the food that is prepared is charged with God’s name.”

Malini Ramnath, the meal coordinator for the South Bethesda Center, agreed and said that despite having a small panic attack when she realized the enormity of the task, “I knew that Swami would not ask me to do this for Him if I were not capable.” Once she came up with a menu, which included a delicious sprout salad, cabbage curry, and bean burritos, she found volunteers more than willing to help with cutting, preparing, setting up, serving, and clean-up. “The meal was possible only with Swami’s help and the team of volunteers He chose,” said Mrs. Ramnath who was attending the retreat for the second year.

Those attending the retreat came from as far away as Canada, and many first-time attendees said they were most impressed with the way so many volunteers worked together to carry out the various tasks. Sita Murthy and her husband, Srivatsa, learned about the retreat from their daughter, Amulya, who had attended a young adult meeting. The family drove from Mechanicsburg, PA, and Sita Murthy noted, “It is our first retreat, and I really appreciated the way so many volunteers worked to put this together. I could really feel the Lord’s presence in Swami’s room. I really felt so much peace there.”

Trish Sneddon, a Pennsylvania resident, said she has been a Sai devotee for 10 years and this was her first retreat. “It has been amazing and so much like a mini Prasanthi Nilayam. The energy is clean and pure, and there is so much integrity and love. I really felt Swami’s presence.”

The retreat concluded on Monday with inspiring stories by some of Swami’s former students who are living out His teachings through service in various careers. For Mrs. Bhatt, the weekend was “exhilarating,” and she thanked all who added to its success.

~Edith Billups
South Bethesda Sai Center, Maryland, USA

Mid-Atlantic Regions 37th Annual Retreat

The spirit of togetherness, devotion, and inner transformation was beautifully reflected through the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat. Such gatherings provide a unique opportunity for devotees, families, and spiritual seekers to step away from the distractions of daily life and immerse themselves in an atmosphere filled with prayer, reflection, learning, and selfless service. The retreat became a sacred space where participants strengthened their connection with the Divine while deepening bonds with fellow devotees who shared the same spiritual aspirations.

The Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat served as a reminder that spiritual growth flourishes when individuals come together with a common purpose. Throughout the retreat, attendees engaged in devotional singing, study circles, meditation sessions, and inspiring discussions focused on universal values. These activities encouraged everyone to look within, cultivate purity of thought, and develop a greater sense of love and compassion toward others. The environment inspired participants to examine their lives and identify ways to bring spiritual principles into everyday actions.

One of the most memorable aspects of the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat was the atmosphere of unity that prevailed among people of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences. The retreat demonstrated that spirituality transcends all boundaries and creates a shared platform where individuals can learn from one another. Children, youth, and adults participated enthusiastically, contributing their talents and energy to various programs. Their collective efforts reflected the timeless truth that genuine spiritual progress is achieved through cooperation, humility, and mutual respect.

Inspirational talks and presentations played an important role during the retreat. Speakers shared valuable insights on living a purposeful life guided by truth, righteousness, peace, love, and nonviolence. Their messages encouraged attendees to remain steadfast in their spiritual practices while facing the challenges of modern life. The wisdom shared during the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat motivated participants to cultivate positive habits, maintain faith during difficult times, and serve society with sincerity and dedication.

Devotional music and group singing created moments of profound joy and spiritual elevation. As voices united in prayer and praise, participants experienced a deep sense of peace and connection. These sacred moments reminded everyone that devotion is not merely an external expression but an inner experience that awakens the heart and strengthens faith. The devotional sessions became a source of inspiration, helping attendees feel closer to the Divine presence throughout the retreat.

Another significant feature of the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat was its emphasis on selfless service. Participants were encouraged to view service as a spiritual discipline rather than an obligation. Through discussions and examples, attendees learned that serving others with love and humility purifies the heart and promotes unity within communities. The retreat highlighted how even small acts of kindness can create a lasting impact and contribute to the well-being of society.

The retreat also provided opportunities for personal reflection and meditation. In the quiet moments between activities, participants were able to contemplate spiritual teachings and assess their own journeys. These periods of introspection allowed individuals to reconnect with their inner selves and gain clarity regarding their goals and responsibilities. The peaceful setting supported a deeper understanding of the importance of maintaining balance between spiritual practice and daily life.

For many attendees, the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat became a source of renewed inspiration and commitment. The lessons learned, friendships formed, and experiences shared continued to influence participants long after the retreat concluded. Such events serve as reminders that spiritual growth is an ongoing process requiring dedication, discipline, and faith. The retreat encouraged everyone to return home with a stronger resolve to practice spiritual values in every aspect of life.

The importance of documenting and sharing these uplifting experiences cannot be overstated. Platforms like Devotional India help preserve inspiring stories and spiritual reflections that benefit devotees around the world. Through articles, personal accounts, and devotional resources, Devotional India provides opportunities for seekers to learn from experiences such as the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat and apply those lessons in their own spiritual journeys.

The success of the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat was made possible through the dedication of organizers, volunteers, speakers, and participants who worked together with love and enthusiasm. Their efforts created an environment where spiritual learning and personal transformation could flourish. The retreat stood as a shining example of what can be achieved when individuals unite with a shared commitment to devotion, service, and self-improvement.

As the retreat came to a close, attendees carried with them cherished memories, renewed faith, and a deeper understanding of spiritual living. The experiences gained during the gathering continued to inspire positive action and inner growth. Through the collective prayers, heartfelt devotion, and spirit of unity displayed throughout the event, the Mid-Atlantic Region’s 37th Annual Retreat left a lasting impression on everyone who participated.

Events of this nature continue to inspire countless seekers across the world. Through the efforts of communities and spiritual organizations, the message of love, harmony, and selfless service reaches new generations. By sharing such experiences through Devotional India, the values celebrated during the retreat can continue to inspire individuals to lead lives filled with purpose, compassion, and unwavering devotion.

-S.S.E. Student Offerings to the Divine Mother 2013