More than 60 adults and 20 children gathered at Stoneyhill Community Centre in Edinburgh, Scotland on Sunday 3 May 2015 for an enlightening one-day family shibir in the presence of sadhus from BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
The programme was titled ‘My Family, My Satsang’, which explored practical methods of developing harmony and understanding between family members.
The content was delivered through insightful discourses from sadhus and creative multimedia presentations. Younger children were also educated through specially tailored activities and games.
Tyagprakash Swami shared practical techniques of strengthening patience and unity in the household to prevent long-term conflicts. Amrutkirtan Swami elaborated upon spiritual techniques, including methods of meditation, to foster positive family relationships.
The post-lunch session provided an opportunity for families to join together in a team-building activity. Mothers, fathers and children worked together to build a model ship. Family discussions were held thereafter, providing a platform for members to share their thoughts and learning experiences.
The focus of the seminar then moved towards the principles and guidelines for family unity that Pramukh Swami Maharaj has shared. His blessings, conveyed through a montage of video clips, also outlined the benefits of family unity in the daily lives of individuals.
The shibir concluded with a question and answer session with the sadhus.
Participants thoroughly enjoyed the conference, providing positive feedback on the content as well as the delivery and practical nature of the information that was presented. More of these events were requested by many of the attendees, who also pledged to imbibe the teachings to improve their family relationships.