The protocols around the offering of gifts to the Goddess upon the sacred occasion of Puja are of deep significance and importance; to offer something which is pleasing to the Divine and which bring blessings to our country as a selfless expression of our love and devotion.
Through this offering of love, we acknowledge the transforming power of Shri Mataji’s Grace and teachings in our lives. In every puja that we offer to Shri Adi Shakti, the Divine in Her kindness gracefully uplifts the entire humanity. The National gifts offered bring their own blessings by opening our hearts and nurturing our capacity to give in all aspects of our life, as we engage in the natural cycle of giving and receiving.
We find that our own experience of gratitude is magnified; we deepen our capacity to receive and assimilate Shri Mataji’s blessings through whatever we offer out of love to Shri Mataji, whom we love with all our heart; through the practice of offering, we consciously acknowledge and strengthen our commitment to follow Her teachings.
It has been suggested that at International Pujas, a gift from Hosting Countries should continue to be offered. The remaining countries however, may choose to donate an appropriate sum of money to projects sanctioned by H.H. Shri Mataji. Representatives of these countries could present a financial contribution to these projects. Flowers, artistic, cultural, or symbolic gifts representative of their culture, heritage, and traditions may also be presented with the financial offering.
This suggestion was put to Shri Mataji and Sir CP for their approval:
“Many thanks for your excellent proposals regarding Puja gifts. H.H. SHRI MATAJI has accorded Her whole-hearted approval. As regards projects, for the present it would be a good idea to concentrate on the CHHINDWARA SHRINE AND ASHRAM. "
-- C.P. Srivastava
“The Chindwara Project” realises a vision to construction a new ashram and meditation centre to be erected at the most holy place of Our Mother’s birthplace. The WCASY would also mention that as a priority amongst the list of global projects that are under way. and will necessitate the participation of the whole world is the ”The Devi Production Project” with the imminent start of the task for the preservation and digitalisation of all Shri Mataji’s sacred audio and video material.
National Collectives may thus continue to offer gifts to Shri Mataji and this note does not mean, nor imply that everyone should move to financial contribution at Pujas. In addition, if any country wishes to offer contributions to projects, the option has now been sanctioned.
All aspects in the offering of Puja enable us to be sincere and earnest in ourselves to the great ideals of Sahaja Yoga, of compassion, peace, spiritual enlightenment, and of our complete dedication to Our Guru H.H Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi.
The Australian Council, together with the World Council for the Advancement of Sahaja Yoga. |
