The Bede Griffiths Sangha are planning a celebration
to mark the centenary of the birth of
Fr Henri le Saux Swami Abhishiktananda,
at Gaunts House, Wimborne, Dorset,
from Thursday 15th to Sunday 18th July 2010
Each day will follow the pattern of worship at Shantivanam Ashram, with three
periods of meditation and the Ashram forms of prayer. The Jyotiniketan liturgy of Abhishiktananda and Murray Rogers will be celebrated.
Speakers will include:
Fr Laurence Freeman OSB
Director of the World Community for Christian Meditation – WCCM
Prof Bettina Bäumer
Professor of Sanskrit and personal friend of Abhishiktananda
Former President of the Abhishiktananda Society
Shirley du Boulay
author of The Cave of the Heart: the life of Swami Abhishiktananda and compiler of Swami Abhishiktananda: Essential Writings
STOP PRESS: We are very pleased to confirm that Brother Martin from Shantivanam will also be present
A silent area, The Cave, will be available for private contemplation at all times. Occasionally there will be readings, and recorded Gregorian chant and chanting of the Vedas from Ramana Ashram, Tiruvanammalai.
There will be a presentation on Ramana Maharshi and the inspiration which he gave Abhishiktananda. DVDs on the life of Abhishiktananda, and interviews about him with Panikkar, Murray Rogers and Shirley du Boulay will be available to view.
The Uttaran Dance company will give a performance and short workshop on Bharatanatyam dance, a classical Indian dance form originating in Tamil Nadu. It is inspired by the sculptures of the ancient temple of Chidambaram.
Workshops will include discussion groups, further talks by Bettina and by Br Martin, and ITP (integral transformative practice) by Bob Doenges.
Bob writes: "ITP is a long-term programme for realising the potential of an individual’s body, mind heart and soul. The practice involves a series of gentle movement exercises from akido, tai-chi and yoga and modern exercise physiology done in a predetermined flow. " (ITP website: www.itp-international.org)
Participants will be invited, if they wish to do so, to give 5 minute talks on what Abhishiktananda means to them, in a session on Friday afternoon.
Booking forms are now available. We have a limited number of concessionary places in dormitory accommodation. Please enquire about these; enquiries to Annie Cygler (see below)
Booking forms can be downloaded from: Booking Form
Or obtained from: Annie Cygler: email: abhishikt2010@googlemail.com Tel: 01344 772 496
For more details contact:
Hilary Knight
Jarosa, North End Lane, Downe, Orpington, Kent BR6 7HQ
Jill Hemmings
jill.hemmings@btinternet.com