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( in the words of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba ) HANDBOOK FOR CENTRE ACTIVITIES

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Page 1: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

( in the words of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba )

HANDBOOK FORCENTRE ACTIVITIES

Page 2: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION 1

2. PURPOSE & GOAL 1

3. STRUCTURE OF THE ORGANIZATION 2

4. SPIRITUAL GUIDELINES 3

a) Five points of Discipline 3

b) Nine point Code of Conduct 3

c) Tenfold path to Divinity 4

5. SWAMI'S GUIDELINES FOR EACH WING 4

a) Spiritual 4

b) Seva 6

c) EHV 8

d) Ladies 8

e) Youth 9

6. OFFICE BEARERS AND THEIR DUTIES 9

7. SAI CENTRE MEMBERS AND THEIR DUTIES 11

8. RULES OF CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE 12

a) Dress code 12

b) Silence 13

c) Prasad 13

d) Altar 13

9. FINANCES 14

10. PRAYERS 14

11. CENTRE ACTIVITIES 17

12. SATHYA SAI BOOK & INFORMATION CENTRE 17

13. CLOSING REMARKS 18

TRUTH

NON

VIOLENCE

LOVE

RIGHT

CONDUCT

PEACE

Page 3: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

1. INTRODUCTION

Bhagawan through His numerous dis-courses, messages, interviews, etc, hasgiven guidelines to his devotees pertain-ing to the code of conduct in the charterof Sri Sathya Sai Organization and hasinstructed how they can be carried out.Such guide lines have to be strictly fol-lowed to ensure that we, the membersdo not inadvertently deviate from ourSadhana or from the true functions ofthe Organization.

This Hand Book provides to theDevotees of Bhagawan Sri Sathya SaiBaba:

1) A general guideline to the activities ofthe Centres

2) A guide as to the proper conduct foreach member.

Swami is Divinity in Human form andwe are very Fortunate to have beenexposed not only to the knowledge ofHis existence but also to have Him asour own Guru.

Swami is the Founder of the Sri SathyaSai Organization and these Guidelinesare His own Statements.

In the event that further clarificationsare required, you are most kindly wel-comed to ask any office bearer of oldermember of the Centre, for additionalinformation.

2. PURPOSE AND GOAL

"The sole objective of the Organizationis to enable man to discover his innateDivinity, regain his Self confidence andfaith in GOD. The power and strengthderived from Faith in Self and from faithin GOD, will be enduring and ever sus-taining The objective of the SaiOrganization is to make People aware ofthis truth and to live in that awareness."The UNITY OF ALL FAITHS is the mainplank of the Organization."Baba – Sevadal, April 1983, page 4

The practice of the five Principles prop-agated by Swami, Truth (Sathya),Righteousness (Dharma), Peace(Shanti), Love (Prema) and Non violence(Ahimsa) will lead us to the GOAL, whichis our own Transformation.

The Activities of the Sathya Sai Centresare the means to the spiritual progress inthe direction towards our Goal ofTransformation. These Activities shouldhelp us to practice the Five HumanValues which will translate in our dailylife as Love and Service.

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE 24 NOVEMBER 2000Recommendation:

Transformation starts with the individualwho makes a commitment to follow spir-itual practices with discipline. It thenextends from the individual to the familyand then into the society.

– 1 –

This book was blessed and signed bySwami on January 26, 2003 in theInterview room at Prashanti Nilayam.

Page 4: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

3. STRUCTURE OF THE ORGANIZATION

“I must say plainly that ninety our of onehundred among you have not clearlyvisualized the purpose for which I haveallowed you to form theseOrganizations.

It is not to give some people places ofauthority or power Or for ensuring fameand publicity for Me. It is to build uponthe earth the FATHERHOOD OF GODAND THE BROTHERHOOD OF MEN onstrong foundations. This MUST be clear-ly grasped by all of you! You are notengaged in Social Service in thisOrganization. Your are engaged in yourown service. All the items of work areaimed at expanding your heart and puri-fying it!"Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 6, pg. 321 November 1968

"These Organizations are meant tobroaden your Love, to canalize youractivities along lines of constructiveservice performed as worship, NOT toconfer some people more power overothers, or greater control over the activi-ties of other members, or for the displayof the devotion of some people.

All MUST be conscious of this, ALL THETIME"Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 6, pg 127,December 1967

"In our Organization there must be aConstant attempt to cultivate Lovewhich Transcends caste, creed, race andclass distinctions.

This sense of equality is its special feature.It is not enough if the units undertakematerial, Moral and spiritual teachings.

Emphasis on the ATMA and the awarenessof the ONENESS OF THE ATMA is a Must.”Baba Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 11, pg. 37, November 1980

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE 24 NOVEMBER 2000. Recommendation

Regional Coordinators must motivateand help the region to bring about theraising of spiritual consciousnessthrough activities under the three wingsof the Organization. Namely: Spiritual,Educational and Service, as well as theYouth Group and the Ladies Group.

The Chairman of the Centre or Groupshall be a person elected by consensusamongst the Members of the Centre orGroup.

The Chairman may nominate not morethan Four Active Workers to be membersof an Executive Committee for attendingto the Activities of the Centre under thethree Wings Spiritual, Educational andService.

He may opt additional members for anySpecial meetings.

Charter of the Sathya Sai Organizationspg. 23 at the 3rd World Conference, 14thJanuary 1981.

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE, 24 NOVEMBER 2000Recommendation

The person accepting the title of PRESI-DENT of a Centre Or Sai DevotionalGroup must:

Hold the firm belief that the aim of theOrganization is to facilitate the spiritualdevelopment of the individual. ThisOrganization must elevate the humaninto the Divine

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Page 5: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

4. SPIRITUAL GUIDELINES

a) Five Points of Discipline

"I am insisting on five points of disci-pline..."

1. Silence - This is the first step inSadhana. It makes the other steps easy. Itpromotes self control; it lessens chancesfor anger, hate, malice, greed and pride.Besides, you can hear His footsteps onlywhen Silence reigns in the mind.

2. Cleanliness - It is the doorway toGodliness. Inner and Outer cleanlinessare essential if you desire to install Godin your heart.

3. Service - Service saves you from theagony You get when another suffers; itbroadens your Vision; it widens yourawareness; it deepens Your compassion.

4. Love - Do not calculate or weigh thereaction Result or reward. Love calls,Love responds, Love is God. Live in Love.

5. Hastelessness - No being is to belooked down upon as secondary, inferi-or, unimportant or expandable. Eachhas its allotted role in the dramadesigned by the Almighty. Do not slight -insulate or inure any Being for He is inevery being and your slight becomessacrilege. "Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 7, pg. 264, GuruPoornima 19.07.70

b) Nine Point Code of Conduct

“In order to qualify to be a true memberof the Sri Sathya Sai Organization, thefollowing Guidelines shall be followed."

1. Every day Meditation

2. Bhajan with all family members oncea week.

3. Participation in Balvikas programmedby children of the family.

4. Participation in community work andother Programs of the Organization.

5. Attendance at least once a month inBhajan and Nagar Sankirtan organizedby the Organization.

6. Regular study of Sai Literature.

7. Speak softly with everyone

8. Not to indulge in talking ill of others,especially in their absence.

9. Narayan Seva: Some cereals to be keptseparate every day to feed the needy andto form a habit not to waste food.

c) Tenfold Path to Divinity

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Page 6: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

At the valedictory Discourse on during the

4th World Conference, November 21, 1985,

Bhagawan enunciated the following

Ten-Fold-Path to Divinity

1. Love and Serve the Motherland. Do nothate or Hurt the motherland of others.

2. Honor every Religion; each is a path-way to the ONE GOD.

3. Love all Men without distinction.Know that mankind is a single commu-nity.

4. Keep your home and its environmentclean. It will ensure health and happi-ness for you and the society.

5. Do not throw coins when beggarsstretch their hands for alms. Help them tobecome Self-reliant. Provide food andshelter, love and care for the sick and aged.

6. Do not tempt others by offering bribesor demean yourself by accepting bribes.

7. Do not develop jealousy, hatred orenvy on Count.

8. Do not depend on others to serve yourpersonal needs; become your own ser-vant before proceeding to serve others.

9. Observe the laws of the State and bean exemplary citizen.

10. Adore God and Abhor Sin.Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 18, Pg. 143 & 144

5. SWAMI'S GUIDELINES FOR EACH WING

a) Spiritual Wing

Bhajans

"Attend all the sessions in the hall. Donot take shelter behind excuses. If youare ill, Bhajan will help the cure, or let Metell you, it is far better to die during bha-jans with the Lord's name on you lips".

Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 2, pg. 186

"Bhajan is one of the processes by whichyou can train the mind to expand intoeternal values. Teach the mind to revel inthe glory and majesty of God. Wan itaway from petty horizons of pleasure.The tongue is a post, Bhajan is the rope;with all that rope you can bring GodAlmighty near you and tie Him up sothat His Graces becomes yours. God isso kind that He will yield to your prayersand get bound. You have only to call onHim to be by your side, with you, leadingyou and Guiding you.”Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 7 pg. 443

Guidelines of Disciplines in conductingBhajans

"Bhajans charge the atmosphere withdivine adoration; that is why I insist ongroup singing of the Names of the Lord."

1. Devotees must be seated a few min-utes before the start of Bhajans. Alwaysremember and BE CONVINCED thatLord Sai is present and presiding. He hassaid. "Wherever my glory is Sung, Iinstall myself there.”Late arrivals shouldtake a seat in the rear.

2. Do not look at others or smile or say hior hello during bhajans, thereby disturb-ing other's concentration.

3. Seating arrangement should be menon one side and women on the otherside. In proper lines, one behind theother. Bhajan leaders and musiciansmust be seated in the front rows.

4. Do not sway your body like a pendu-lum or clap out of tune with others.Maintain perfect silence and restrictyour movements to minimum. Whilesitting exercise self control.

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Page 7: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

5. Musical instruments used during bha-jans should not drown the voice of thesinger and those who follow. If there ismore than one instrument used, main-tain balance among instruments used.

6. Sing familiar Bhajans, so that all canshare Ananda (bliss)

7. Any devotional song in any languagecan be sung as long as all can follow.

8. Never be ashamed to sing the name ofGod or to do Bhajan. Be proud that youget the chance, be glad that your tongueis put to the best use.

9. The Bhajans must be sweet to the ear.

10. Bhajan has to be a thrilling experi-ence, which must leave the participantsfull of pure energy and elevated enthusi-asm.

11. Bhajans have to be sung and offeredto God in an attitude of utter humility;they are not to be taken as exercises in anexhibition of talents and as a competitionfor mastery of musical skill. They have toplease the Lord, not your fans.

12. Bhajans must be a felt experience. Donot sing with one eye on the effect thesong makes on the listeners and the otheron the effect it makes on God. Let yourheart pant for God; then the Raga andthat will automatically be pleasant andcorrect.

13. With each Bhajan song the mind mustbe rendered purer, freer from passion andstronger in faith.

14. Pay attention to the tune, the mean-ing, the variety, the voice, the raga(rhythm), the Tall (beat) and the other fivepoints of the bhajans.

15. Bhajan is the Sadhana for all whoshare in it.

16. When you sing bhajans, dwell also onthe meaning of the song and the messageof each Name and Form of God.

17. Unless you sing Bhajans for your ownjoy, you cannot bring joy to others. It isonly when the feeling arises in the heartthat the song will appeal to the heart ofthe others. I am pleased only when love isthe keynote, when the feeling of unityprevails, when the melody comes formcleansed, God-loving hearts.

18. Bhajan is a good disciplinary processby which AMA and Krodh can be keptaway. AMA is Lust for Physical pleasure,for power, for fame, for wealth andScholarship. Krodh is anger, which is theresult of foiled lust. In this busy age offear and anxiety, the remembrance ofGod and repetition of His Name is theone means of Liberation that is accessi-ble to all.

19. If your voice is not pleasant or sweet,keep quiet; that is the best service youcan do.

20. Do not cause discontent, discord ordisharmony, insisting on singingbecause you are an office bearer.

21. Do not monopolize the time inBhajans by singing one song for six or tenminutes, repeating the same line often.Repeat each line only twice and no more.Have only two speeds; one slow and theother fast. In this way, you can have inone hour Bhajans more songs, and more

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Page 8: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

forms, more tunes and more variety, giv-ing more people the chance.

22. After Bhajans and before conductingArathi, there Should be meditation forfive to ten minutes. During Arathi devo-tees should stand up and stay at theirown places. Use of camphor for Arathi isadvisable.

23. There should not be any distributionof Prasad at the Public Bhajan Centres,recognized by Seva Samithi -except Thedistribution of Vibuthi.

24. People should return from Bhajancarrying the elevated, uplifted and sub-lime mood created by the atmosphere atthe Bhajan. Therefore, after Bhajan, peo-ple should disperse quietly, maintainingsilence. Then the joy and peace derivedat the Bhajan will linger and abide in the heart. Bhajananamavali (For Overseas Devotees) pg.11-13.

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE 24 NOVEMBER 2000.Recommendation

Run High Quality Bhajans at the SaiCentres through regular Bhajan practice.

Study Circle

"Study Circle does not mean only justreading, discussing and taking informa-tion into the head, but also putting intopractice what is learns. If knowledge isstored in the mind it causes Confusion.Confusion leads to blowing of the fuse.You should listen in the study circle andput into practice what you have learns.Then, only, it becomes real StudyCircle."

Baba – Conversations pg. 125-126

"Hislop asked the question: "what is aStudy Circle?”

"Circle, Study Circle", means taking apoint and each person discussing what isthe meaning of that point to them.-like around table conference.

Each person gives his view point andfinally, values are derived from this. Ifthere is just reading, there is doubt. Buteach person gives his view doubts will beanswered. The topic is viewed: TheStudy Circle looks at different facets. It islike a diamond with its different facets,but there is one facet which is flat. Thetop facet, and from this all can beviewed. To discover the top facet is thejob of the Study Circle"Baba – Conversations pg. 125-126

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE, 24 NOV, 2000.Recommendation

Study Sai Literature. Hold Study Circlesto discuss and encourage FamilySadhana by way of joint prayers andspiritual activities.

b) Seva

"If God himself is here to foster Dharmaand you engage yourself in the sametask, then you are worshipping Him.Then you are near and dear to Him, foryou are serving Him, His devotees andyourself."Baba – Conversations Pg. 41

Regarding Seva, the primary Seva is donot harm another.

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Page 9: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

Second is that Swami is not only in yourheart, but He is the reality of every per-son that your see.

"If you see someone in distress and it iswithin your capacity to help, whey nothelp? How can you not help? You areserving Swami. Only reality of every per-son is God. Therefore do Seva to God Youcan serve God in another person".Baba – Seeking Divinity - Hislop, pg. 215-215

IMPORTANCE OF SEVA

"Service is the essence of devotion, thebest cure for egoism"Sathya Sai Speaks VI, ch.50, p.239

"Consider service as the best spiritualdiscipline. But do not believe that youcan by means of service reform orreshape the world. You may or you maynot; that does not matter. The real valueof service is that it reforms you, itreshapes you. Do service as a spiritualdiscipline; then you will be humble andhappy."Sathya Sai Speaks V, ch. 66, p.327

"God will not ask you: "When and wheredid you do service?"

He will ask: "With what motive did youdo it? What was the Intention thatprompted you?

You may weigh the Seva and boast of itsquantity, but God seeks Quality. TheQuality in the heart, the purity of themind, the holiness of the motive."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol. 11,pg. 195

"When judging the service done by amember... it is not the quantity of thenumber of individual instances thatmatter; they do not count at all. Judgerather the motive that led him to serve,the genuineness of the love and com-passion with which the Seva was satu-rated. The explanation that appeals toSwami is that you did the Seva with notaint of ego, and that you derived unsur-passed Ananda (joy) as a result."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 10, pg. 220

"All of you should take a vow continual-ly to develop the Seva Organizations. Letall join in the activities. Treat all as thechildren of one God. Whosoever Youserve, consider you are serving God.Never give up the Organization. Regardit as the Breath of your life. This is thereal penance. Having this Firm resolve,become exemplary leaders. This is mysole desire. Swami's love will accompa-ny you everywhere."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks Vol. 304, 24.11.1990

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE, 24 NOV, 2000Recommendation

For any activity to qualify as Servicethere must be total involvement of body,mind and soul. It is not enough thatservice is done with our bodies alone,and there must be a proper attitude oflove and humility.

Human life is meant for selfless service.We must come together, understandeach other and work. The best way tolove God is "Love All and Serve All".

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Page 10: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

c) EHV (Education in Human Values)

- Balvikas

Primary aim of Balvikas program:

“The Balvikas is the primary basis of thegreat movement to restore Dharma inthe world. It is raising a generation ofboys and girls who have clean and clearconsciousness, the creation of anatmosphere where noble habits andideals can grow and fructify. Childrenhave to be led into good ways of living,into Simplicity, Humility andDiscipline."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 10,pg. 161

Balvikas Guru Training Camp. June'78

Qualities of Children

"They must have Bhaya (Fear), Vinaya(Humility) and Viswas (Faith).

Fear of what? Fear of doing wrong, offalling into falsehood. Humility beforewhom? Before elders, teachers and par-ents. Faith in what? Faith in God, in theirown strength and their own Victory."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 6, pg. 53

Qualities of Gurus

More than all else, the Guru must equiphimself/herself with Sahana, (a calmand quiet temper), he should be pre-pared to meet, without being ruffled, thebuffetings of the Environment. Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 10 pg.164 - BalvikasGuru Training Camp. June 78

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE 24 NOV, 2000.Recommendations

SSE/Bal Vikas for devotees' children andSSEHV for the community and publicprograms be given priority. Parenting pro-grams should be taken up vigorouslybecause of the great need to assist parentsin the encouragement of their families.

d) Ladies

Ladies are an integral part of theOrganization. They are the unseenhands and spring of loving energybehind every activity. They must play apivotal role in inculcating Human valuesin the Sai Organization.

"Women always strive hard for the wel-fare of their family. They always aspirefor Samatha Equality), Samagrata(Integrity), Samaikyata (Unity) andSowbbratrutwam (Fraternity). Womenare extolled as the embodiments of eightforms of wealth. They always speak thetruth, their hearts are filled with peaceand their actions are righteous. Womenbeing the recipients of eight forms ofwealth, confer Prosperity andAuspiciousness on the family."Baba – Divine Discourse, 11 August, 2000

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE 24 NOV, 2000Recommendations

To declare the 19th of November asLadies ' Day and to dedicate The 19th ofevery month for satsangh sessions so asto deepen Swami's teachings withregard to the women's role in the SaiOrganization.

Women to play as role models both athome and at Sai Centres.

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e) Youth

"Youth is a stage of life when self control,self examination and self effort are mostneeded and least exercised. What amighty potential for progress is wastedby the empty vagaries of the youthtoday. If only the courage, optimism,strength and imagination of youth ischanneled into constructive channels,how soon the human community canattain peace and prosperity. They shouldnot be led into the paths of hypocrisy,deceit or greed. They must act the waythey speak and speak the way they think.They should think good thoughts, speakgood words and do good deeds."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol.10 pg 34 & 35

"The age span 16 to 30 is crucial, for thatis the period when life adds sweetness toitself, when talents, skills and attitudesare accumulated, sublimated and sanc-tified. If the tonic of unselfish Seva isadministered to the mind during thisperiod, life's mission is fulfilled, for theprocess of sublimation and sanctifica-tion will be hastened by this tonic."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol. 7 pg. 54

"Whenever you go for service Swami willalways be with you. Whatever happens Ishall protect you. Do not be carriedaway by profit and loss. Think of Godceaselessly. "Baba – World Youth Conference, July 1997

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE 24 NOV, 2000Recommendation

Bhagawan says: “Only the Youth canTransform the Youth"

The part played by the youth in theOrganization should be brought to theattention of all devotes. Involve theYouths and adults together in StudyCircles and workshops to clarify goalsand expand awareness.

Youth should offer voluntary free tutor-ing designed to assist the academicallyless able children, particularly computerliteracy classes.

6. OFFICE BEARERS/ACTIVE WORKERSAND THEIR DUTIES

Members who are in a position to devoteat least Four hours per week to activitiesof the Organization shall Be treated asActive Workers.

No person shall be qualified to associatehimself or herself as office bearer orworker with this Organization who will-fully Deviates from the Code of Conductlaid down hereinafter.

Charter of the Organization pg 9

SWAMI'S ADVISE TO OFFICE BEARERS

"The very first ideal you must keep inmind when you start and run theseOrganizations is:

Do not crave for status or authority orposition; Do not allow any pomp orshow; do not compete for publicity orrecognition or for praise. Duty is God Doit and be content!"

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Page 12: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

"The key positions of authority are notprizes for devotion. They must be accept-ed with humility and executed with Lovetowards the members and public."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks Vol. 6 pg. 32 & 33 & pg 217

"Be on guard against pride. The greatevil that undermines the units of thisOrganization Is pride and jealousy thatendangers it. Love alone can root out theweed of pride from the heart. Spiritualpride is the most poisonous of all vari-eties of pride. It blinds and leads the per-son suffering from it to ruin. Beware ofpride. Be always aware that you are butinstruments in My divine mission ofDharmasthapana, Revival ofRighteousness. Try to be more and moreefficient as such instruments. The handthat wields the instrument knows howand when it has to be applied.”Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol. 7, pg. 181

"Office bearers are guides who walk thepath they wish others to take; they shallnot command or punish, they can per-suade and advise. The name Sathya Saiis attached to each wing of thisOrganization. It is Sathya Sai thatinspires each activity of each wing. Thisfact has not been taken to heart by manyof you. Sai is the inner inspiration andlight for each worker."

"Be always in the attitude of the ser-vants; that is the best training to becomeMasters.

Everyone must feel equally entitled tothe Grace that can be won by Seva."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks vol. 10 pg. 222-224 & 259

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES OF AN OFFICE BEARER

"There are six essential qualitiesrequired of an Office Bearer in theOrganization:

1. Enthusiasm (Interest)

2. Courage

3. Devotion

4. Energy

5. Preparedness

6. Sincerity

"An office bearer must not only haveenthusiasm himself but enthuse andencourage others. Without enthusiasmand sincerity nothing can be achieved.

Whatever is done is useless and evenharmful to the Nation.

We should have courage to face every-thing. We should believe:

"I can achieve the task assigned".

Man should have the wealth of these sixvirtues, then he can achieve anything.True service is not superficial. It impliesControl of mind and discharging one'sduty properly."Baba – Bhagawan's speech 10th January 1999.

7TH WORLD CONFERENCE 24 NOV, 2000.Recommendations

Ensure that the power of love, under-standing and harmony is applied to per-suade Sai Centres/groups going againstrules and regulations to conform tothem.

If, however, there is continuing miscon-duct and/or any form of non co-opera-

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tion, then they must be reported to theChairperson of the Central Council.

Ensure that Faith healing and otheroccult practices are NOT Permitted oraccepted as Sai Centre/group activities.

Ensure that every wing/group is runaccording to the rules and guidelines ofthe Sri Sathya Sai Organization inCanada according to the western context.

7. SATHYA SAI CENTRE MEMBERS AND THEIR DUTIES

As per the Charter of the Sathya SaiOrganization

Any person who is a spiritual aspirant,has faith in the teachings of BhagawanBaba and who is willing to abide by theNine Point Code of Conduct and theRules and Regulations of theOrganization in force will be treated as aMember.

In Swami's own words: “Who can be amember?

"They must be eager aspirants for spiri-tual progress. They must have full faithin the Name that the Organization bearsand in spreading that Name in the man-

ner suited to its message and majesty.The members must have won recogni-tion as good persons. This is all the qual-ification. Nothing else counts".Baba – First All India Conference - Sathya Say SpeaksVol. 6, pg. 36

"Detachment, simple living Sadhana,these are the qualities that entitle a per-son to the membership of this unit. Giveup, do not gather, that is the road toGrace."Baba – Brindavan Conference of Mysore State Visits -Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol. 7, pg. 180

CODE OF BEHAVIOR OF A SAI ORGANIZATION MEMBER

"Members must be ever engaged in thetwin process of purifying the mind andclarifying the intellect. They have to freethemselves from all prejudices and mis-understandings. They have to speaksoftly and sweetly and give to everyonethe Respect and attention due to themsincerely. Humility and tolerance mustcharacterize the behavior of a SaiDevotee."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol. 10, pg. 44

SWAMI'S ADVISE TO DEVOTEES

"How to become a 100% Devotee or aDevotee very close to the Lord?

One must cultivate noble qualities:

Adveshaa Sarvah Bhootanam - To bewithout hatred towards any living being,to have equanimity to pleasure andpain, free of ego, ever happy in innerfeeling living a God conscious life"Baba – Bhagawan Baba Discourses on Bhagavad Gitaedited by Al Drucker, pg. 37

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"Keep in view the prestige and honor ofSathya Sai Organizations. To keep up thedignity of Sathya Sai, act in a truthfulway. There should not be any differencesor fights among the members of theOrganization. Resolve all conflictsthrough love and understanding."

"There maybe difference of opinion attimes but should not lead to hatred andenmity.

Members of the Sai Organizationsshould foster such unity. Let there not beany conflicts. Get a good name thatthere is no other Organization compati-ble to the Sai Organization in this world.Develop love and work united."

"Only when five fingers of the handcome together, any task can be accom-plished. If All are United,

I shall be extremely happy. One shouldgive and take love for love's sake. TalkSweetly and smilingly. This makes allhappy. Happy mood, happy face, happytalk and happy work, This should beyour guiding force. Develop UNITY. Inunity, not only you, but also the nationwould have a chance to develop. ONLYLOVE BRINGS ABOUT UNITY.”Baba – Divine Discourse 24.11.1998

8. RULES OF CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE

"Generally, I speak sweetly but on thismatter of Discipline I will not grant anyconcessions....I will insist on strict obe-dience. I shall not reduce the rigor to suityour level for that will ruin you. I payattention to your ultimate good."- Baba- Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 2 pg. 197

SWAMI'S WORDS ON OBSERVANCE OFRULES

"The rules we are laying down are meantto heal and weld. Bow to them andobserve them in action sincerely. Yourpath will be soft and smooth."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 7, pg.76

"Do not fret against the rules and regula-tions which the Organization imposeson you; they are laid down for Your owngood. Regulation is the very essence ofcreation. The Oceans observe their lim-its, wind and fire observe Their limitsand bounds. The heart has to beat a cer-tain Number of times a minute. How canthe Organization escape the prescrip-tion of certain rules and regulations?"Baba – Hyderabad, March 1976

Dress Code

"Your dress, behavior and appearance willreveal your character and attitudetowards others. Always have sweet softwords on your tongue. Cast your eyes onlyon holy sights. Wear clean simple clothesand do not imitate those who are fascinat-ed by the latest fashions in dress and style.How can you do Seva when you move faraway from the common man?"Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 10 pg. 224

"Cover your body with modest cleansober clothing. Let your dress reflect loveand respect for Swami".Prashanthi Nilayam Information Booklet pg.44

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Silence

"Silence is the first step of the Sadhana. Byloud talk you Undermine your own peaceand disturb others. Do no cause morenoise than necessary."Baba – Divinity and Dew Drops pg.48

"Be silent yourself, that will inspire silencein others. Reduce contacts to the mini-mum. Carry with you an atmosphere ofquite contemplation wherever you hap-pen to be."Baba – Sadhana the Inward Path. Pg. 169

“I appreciate two things most in you:Silence and Namasmarana. It is only inthe depth of the silence the voice of Godcan be heard. Speak as low as possible, aslittle as possible, as sweet as possible. Donot whisper to each other for that is doneonly when someone is being traducedbehind his back. Do not talk loudly awayfrom MY hearing; there is no away."

Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol. 6, pg. 277 & 278

“You must make it a practice to observesilence at least one hour daily. It savesyour Cosmic Energy and ensures peaceof mind."Baba – Sanathana Sarathi, August 1997.

World Youth Conference, 19th July 1997

Prasad

"About Prasadam - the edible offering isto be avoided. The name is the best con-secrated offering to be shared. You cangive Vibhuti as prasad; that is enough.That is the most precious and effectiveprasad".Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 6, pg.223

Altar

The altar at the center will be simple,clean and without any clutter. Swami'sphoto will be the center piece, a smallstatue of Ganesha and a photo of Swami'sfeet.

The altar may be decorated with someflowers. On the occasion of special cele-bration or events such as Shivaratri orJanmashthami, Photos of Shiva, Lingam,Nataraja statue, Photo of Krishna, aJhoola etc, relevant to the occasion maybe placed.

NEED FOR RULES AND REGULATIONS INOUR ORGANIZATION

"The restrictions, rules, self controls arethe royal roads leading to the goal of selfrealization. They are not just to bind you.Everyone has an Atma. But the mindwanders and gets agitated. The rulesmust be adhered to in order to controlsuch wandering of the minds. Rules areprotective fences for our mind."Baba – Sevadal, February 1981, pg.8

"Our Rules emphasize that membersmust first practice what they stand for.Whatever you desire others to do, youmust first put into daily practice sincerelyand with steadfastness."Baba – Sathya Sai Speaks,Vol. 6 pg. 35

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9. FINANCES

"The routine expenses of the Samithi ofthe Sevadal etc. must be shared by themembers only. There should not be anyattempt to collect from non members.For special occasions, voluntary gifts ofmaterial or services from devotees maybe received."Baba – All India Conference, Sathya Sai Speaks Vol. 7pg.351

Collection of funds for expenses in func-tioning units:

"I do not like collection of funds. Butsince some expenses have to beincurred, I have to allow it under verystringent conditions. Whatever expens-es you decide to incur for the work of theOrganization, you have to collect amongyourselves without seeking help fromthose outside the circle. You have to con-tribute according to your capability andlimit the work to the resources you canpool among yourselves. Do not planbeyond your capacity and move aboutwith lists form person to person to getfunds. By this the institution gets a badname and you too will not be spared.- "Baba - All India Conference, Sathya Sai Speaks Vol. 6,pg.38

10. PRAYERS DURING SATSANGH

GAYATRI MANTRAOm Bhur Bhuva SuvahTat Savitur VarenyumBhargo Devasya DheemaheDhiyo Yo Nah PrachodayatOm Shanti Shanti Shanti

Translation:

Supreme Lord!Creator of the three worlds, the Earth,the Atmosphere and Heaven;Splendorous light illuminating the threeregions of experience, gross subtle andcausal;Radiant Grace flowing from that light;We meditate on Thy Divine Radiance;We pray for the Grace of ThyIllumination within us!Peace Peace Peace

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SRI SATHYA SAI GAYATRI MANTRA

OmSayeshwaraya VidmaheSathya Devaya DheemahiTannah Sarvah PrachodayathOm Shanti Shanti Shanti

Translation:

We realize Sri Sathya Sai as the SupremeLord;We meditate on Lord Sathya Sai,As the Embodiment of TranscendentalTruth,The Supreme Brahman;We pray for the nourishing LoveOf His Grace and Protection.Peace Peace Peace

PRAYER FOR UNIVERSALPEACE AND HAPPINESSLokah Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu

Translation:

May there be peace in all the worlds,may all three worlds be happy

ASATOMAAsato Ma Sad GamayaTamaso Ma Jyotir GamayaMrityur Ma Amritam GamayaOm Shanti Shanti Shanti

Translation:

From the unreal, lead us to the TruthFrom out of darkness lead us into lightFrom fear of death lead to everlastingLifePeace Peace Peace

SARAVA DHARMA PRAYEROm Tat Sat Sri Narayana Tu,Purushottama Guru TuSiddha Buddha Tu, Skanda Vinayaka,Savita Pavaka TuBrahma Mazda Tu, Yehova Shakti Tu,Yesu Pita Prabhu TuRudra Vishnu Tu, Rama Krishna Tu,Rahim Tao TuVasudeba Go, Vishwarupa Tu,Chidananda Hari TuAdvaitiya Tu, Akala Nirbhaya,Atmalinga Shiva Tu

Translation

Om Tat Sat- Om, the primordial soundof Creation is Truth. Lord Narayana isthe Supreme Guru and the embodi-ment of Perfection. You are Siddha: Godworshiped by Jains. Buddha: One whois enlightened. Skanda: LordSubramanyam, destroyer of evils.Vinayaka: son of Shiva is leader of theGanas the remover of obstacles. Savita:Sun God the source of life. Mazda:Great. Yehova: God of the Hebrews.Shaki: Divine Power or Energy.

Esu: Jesus. Pita: Father. Prabhu:Almighty God, Master. Rudra: the Onewho purifies – Shiva. Vishnu: allPervading Lord. Rahim: One who is allkindness. Tao: One who is the embodi-ment of knowledge. Vasudeva: Principlethat resides in the entire Creation. Go:Cow or Mother Earth. Vishwarupa:Omnipresent, Omnipotent, OmniscientInfinite form. Chidananda:Embodiment of SupremeConsciousness and Bliss. Hari: One whodestroys illusions. Advaitya: One with-out a second. Akala: One who is beyondTime. Atmalingam: Formless symbol ofcreation. Shiva: Most Auspicious Lord.

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ARATHIOm Jai Jagadisha Hare Swami SathyaSai Hare

Bhakta Jana Samrakshaka, Bhakta JanSamrakshaka

Parthi Maheswara

Om Jai Jagadisha Hare

Shashi Vadana Srikara

Sarva Pranapate, Swami SarvaPranapate

Asrhita Kalpalatika, Ashrita Kalpalatika

Apad Bandava

Om Jai Jagadisha Hare

Mata Pita Guru Daivam,

Mariyantayu Neeve, SwamiMariyantayu Neeve

Nadabrahma Jagannatha, NadabrahmaJagannatha

Nagendra Shyana

Om Jai Jagadisha Hare

Omkara Rupa Ojaswi

Om Sai Mahadeva, Sathya SaiMahadeva

Mangala Arathi Anduko, MangalaArathi Anduko

Mandara Giridahari

Om Jai Jagadisha Hare

Narayana Narayana Om

Sathya Narayana Narayana NarayanaOm (X2)

Narayana Narayana Om

Om Jai Satguru Deva

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti

– 16 –

Translation

Pranams at the Lotus Feet

Of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai

You have come to foster Your devotees,

Foster and protect Your devotees

Lord Sai at Puttaparthi

Oh Lord of the Universe!

Your face is radiant as the Moon,

And you fill us with energy and light

Swami fill us with energy and light

You are the Savior of devotees

Answering all the prayers of devotees

Friend of those in need

Oh Lord of the Universe!

Sai You are Mother and Father

Teacher and Divinity itself

Swami, You are Divinity Itself

You are the Cause of All Creation

The cause and all its Manifestation

You are the One Reality

Oh Lord of the Universe!

You are the sacred Word of OM

The Formless in human form

Swami, You are the Formless in Form

Now accept this flame of Bhakti

Please accept this flame of Arathi

We praise Your Majesty

Oh Lord of the Universe!

Narayana Narayana Om Sathya

Narayana Narayana Narayana Om

Narayana Narayana Om Sathya

Narayana Narayana Om Sathya

Narayana Narayana OM

Pranams at the Lotus feet of Sai

(Last verse sung 3 times)

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VIBHUTI SONGParamam Pavitram Baba Vibhutim

Paramam Vichitram Leela Vibhutim

Paramartha Istartha Moksha Pradatam

Baba Vibhutim Idam Asrayami

(Sai) Baba Vibhutim Idam Asrayami

Translation:

Sacred Holy and Supreme is Baba'sVibhuti

Pouring forth in brilliant stream thisplay of Vibhuti

So auspicious is its might, it grantsLiberation

Baba's Vibhuti, its power protects me.

CLOSING MANTRAMangalam Guru Devaya

Mangalam Jnana Dayine

Mangalam Parthi Vasaya

Mangalam Sathya Sayine

Translation:

May the Divine Guru be auspicious tous

May the Bestower of Wisdom be auspi-cious to us

May the Lord who manifested in Parthibe auspicious to us

May Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba beauspicious to us.

11. BOOK & INFORMATION CENTRE

A) HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, andFriday — Noon to 5 pm

Thursday — Noon to 7 pm

Saturday and Sunday — 10 am to 5 pm

B) BOOKS, AUDIO & VIDEO

Sri Sathya Sai Book & Information Centrehas a wide selection of books, cassettes,cds, and VHS/DVD peripherals. A varietyof photographic prints of Sathya Sai Babaare available in many different sizes.

C) VIDEO LENDING LIBRARY

www.saibooks.org

12. CANADIAN SATHYA SAI NEWSLETTER

A newsletter of Sai activities in Canada ispublished on a quarterly basis.

Everyone’s contribution in terms of per-sonal experiences and special events aremost welcome. Subscriptions are avail-able from the Sri Sathya Sai Baba Book &Information Centre.

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If you have no ego and if you do yourwork not only for limited times in theOrganizations but during all the twentyfour hours then, My Darshan will pourforth and the people you meet will feelthey are meeting Baba and are withBaba. Be ever pure of heart and soul andmankind in your life time will benefitfrom your unique qualities. "Baba - "Spiritual Blue Prints of My Journey”By SriIndulal Shah pg. 27-29. - "Foot Steps to God”pg.24

"Let the different Faiths exist, let themflourish. Let the glory of God be sung inall languages and a variety of tunes.Respect the differences between faithsand recognize them as valid, so far asthey do not extinguish the flame ofUNITY.""Baba"

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13. CLOSING REMARKS

"Avatars seldom give advice directly.Whatever they wish to communicate,they convey more often by way of indi-rect suggestions and only rarely by thedirect method of instruction. The reasonfor this is there is Divinity inherent inevery human being, which he can man-ifest spontaneously, if favorable condi-tions are provided, just as a viable seedwill germinate and grow into a treebecause of its inherent nature, if onlysuitable facilities are provided for themanifestation of its potentiality. Manshould be enabled to correct himself byhis own efforts, by merely giving kindlysuggestions, rather than by stultifyinghis freedom and dignity through direc-tives imposed from without."Baba – "Indian Culture and Spirituality”pg. 95-96

"Your Mission has begun. These are Mywords to My devotees:

Each of you has a unique and valuablepart to play in this life time.

I call upon you to radiate the devotionwithin you. For this always remain cen-tered upon Me, imparting purity of heartDo all and do not reach for the fruits ofyour work. Be ever aware that Themoment you let your ego descend uponyou My work stops.

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REGION 13 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

CENTRAL COUNCIL OF THE SRI SATHYA SAI BABA ORGANIZATION IN CANADA

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TRUTH

NON

VIOLENCE

LOVE

RIGHT

CONDUCT

PEACE

CENTRAL COORDINATOR

DR. V.P. SINGH

NATIONAL SPIRITUALCOORDINATOR

N/A

NATIONAL EDUCATIONCOORDINATOR

DR. M.V. KANCHANA

NATIONAL SERVICECOORDINATOR

MR. SHIVA GOPIE

ADVISOR TONATIONAL

YOUTH COORDINATOR

MR. S. RAO

NATIONAL PUBLICATIONCOORDINATOR

DR. S. EVANI

DIRECTOR, SSS BABABOOK & INFORMATION

CENTRE (COUNCILPHOTOGRAPHER)

MR. SUBRATA MITRABRITISH COLUMBIA

/YUKONREGIONAL COORDINATOR

MR. NAD SHAN

ALBERTA/NORTHWESTTERRITORIESREGIONAL

COORDINATOR

MRS. VISHNU SOOBIAH

MANITOBA/SASKATCHEWANREGIONAL COORDINATOR

DR. RAMAN RAMIAH

ONTARIO 1 (SW ONTARIO)REGIONAL COORDINATOR

MR. GOPAL CHIDAMBARAM

ONTARIO 2 (METROTORONTO) REGIONAL

COORDINATOR

MR. S. THURAIRAJA

ONTARIO 3/QUEBECREGIONAL

COORDINATOR

MR. DENIS MARCIL

NATIONAL

YOUTH COORDINATOR

DR. AROON YUSUF

CHAIRPERSON CENTRAL COUNCIL

MRS. MYRIAM JOZSA

SECRETARYTO THE COUNCIL

MRS. APHRODITEMINIOTIS

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SHRI SATHYA SAI BABA ORGANIZATION IN CANADA

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REGIONAL COORDINATOR

(LIAISON BETWEEN

COUNCIL AND PRESIDENT)

CENTRE / SDG

PRESIDENT

LADIES COORDINATOR

VICE PRESIDENT

SPIRITUAL COORDINATOR

EDUCATION COORDINATOR

SERVICE COORDINATORYOUTH COORDINATOR

SECRETARY

TREASURER

TRUTH

NON

VIOLENCE

LOVE

RIGHT

CONDUCT

PEACE

Page 23: SAI BABA HANDBOOK

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TRUTH

NON

VIOLENCE

LOVE

RIGHT

CONDUCT

PEACE

This Handbook was compiled and presented toSwami by Mrs. Aphrodite Miniotis.

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TRUTH

NON

VIOLENCE

LOVE

RIGHT

CONDUCT

PEACE

"Let the different Faiths exist, let them flourish.Let the glory of God be sung in all languages and a variety of tunes.Respect the differences between faiths and recognize them as valid,

so far as they do not extinguish the Flame of Unity."

Sai Baba

Sri Sathya Sai Baba Centre

58B Arlington AvenueToronto, ON Canada M6G 3K8

tel: (416) 481-7242