The inauguration of the Family Activity Center at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Raleigh, NC took place on Saturday, September 19, 2015 in the presence of Sadguru Pujya Swayamprakashdas Swami (Pujya Doctor Swami).
The inauguration festivities began on Friday, September 18, 2015 with an enthralling kirtan aradhana, singing of devotional hymns by BAPS Swamis that had the crowd mesmerized. On Saturday, September 19, 2015, Sadguru Pujya Doctor Swami Swami, U.S. Congressman David Price and Morrisville Mayor Mark Stohlman along with other public officials opened the Family Activity Center by untying the nada-chhadi. Thereafter, devotees and community members took part in a vedic mahapuja ceremony, a Women’s Cultural Program, and a Sanskruti Darshan cultural program. North Carolina State Senator Tamara Barringer & House of Representative Gale Adcock, who attended the Women's Cultural Program were very thankful and excited to be a part of the celebrations.
The main mandir was built in 2004, and just recently celebrated its 11 year anniversary. Since 2004, the mandir, has seen consistent growth in activities for all ages. The new facility adds much needed space to the existing facility and provides a location for cultural, spiritual, and social activities for children, families, and community members.
The enthusiasm of exuberant devotees, volunteers, and dignified community officials present at the inauguration could not be masked. Speaking on the occasion, Morrisville Mayor Mark Stohlman said, “I have visited the mandir many times and had an opportunity to interact with the BAPS volunteers and children in the past. What makes the BAPS great is not the building you’re in, but the good people that are in the building.” At the end of his remark, he presented BAPS with a congratulatory plaque and proclaimed September 19, 2015 as BAPS Family Activity Center Day.
North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory who could not attend the event but he sent a recorded video message for the event. In the video, the Governor said, "BAPS has led the way in community building. Worldwide you are engaged in many social, moral, and cultural programs that has helped families and communities flourish. May the new FAC add to the richness of BAPS experience and provide North Carolina with an example of what can be accomplished with determination, community generosity, and prayer."