Holidays & special events
through May, 2012
Members’ Candlelight Tea 
Saturday, February 11, 7-10 pm (invitational - for all members)
Mingle and enjoy this beautiful annual evening celebration for members—a gala event. It's a time to get to know others better, be delightfully entertained, enjoy tasty morsels, and be inspired by the blessings of spiritual family. Interested in becoming a member?
Special Kirtan celebrating Shivaratri
Friday, February 24, 7:30 pm, free
Yogananda didn’t come to bring Hinduism to America. But we can’t resist celebrating some of India’s beloved holidays. Tonight’s kirtan is in honor of Lord Shiva, symbolic of the destructive force in creation, sometimes feared, but also needed to clear away the old and make room for new beginnings. Shivaratri is the night when Shiva is said to have performed the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction.
Annual
Living Wisdom School
Theater Production
The Subject Tonight is Love: The Life and Poetry of Hafiz
Performed in Ananda’s Temple
Wednesday & Thursday, March 14 & 15, 10 am
Friday & Saturday, March 16 & 17, 7 pm
Tickets: $12 adults, $7 children
Call (650) 462-8150 to buy tickets in advance
The Life and Poetry of Hafiz offers a glimpse into the mystical Sufi tradition and culture of Islam. The play captures the life, the times, and the poetry of this 14th century Middle Eastern contemporary of Chaucer. The script is original and includes many of the poems of Hafiz, as translated by Daniel Ladinsky.
This is Living Wisdom School’s 12th annual theater production, exploring the life of a spiritually remarkable man or woman. Past years’ plays: Dalai Lama, Buddha, St. Francis, Jesus, Martin Luther King, and Joan of Arc. Every student is involved from kindergarten through 8th grade. This is a full scale production, including music and dance, far exceeding in quality and complexity anything you would expect in a “school play.” There are four performances to choose from. Come early, as seats fill VERY quickly. It’s easier to find seats during the daytime performances, if you can come then. Free admission for teachers and their classes; call (650) 462-8150 to reserve.
Easter Season Concert
An Easter Oratorio Celebrating the Life and Teachings of Jesus
Sunday, March 25, 12:15 pm, free (but donations gratefully accepted)
A lunch will be provided at 11:30 am, following our 10 am service
Hear the story of Jesus in music, from his remarkable birth to his joy-filled resurrection. “Christ Lives: An Oratorio” is performed by a full choir, soloists, and instrumentalists. The music has a lyric quality that reflects the grace and refinement of classical music, unusual in modern compositions. The words are deeply stirring. Swami Kriyananda has written some 400 musical works, but for many, the Oratorio is his masterpiece. It’s a transformative experience, not only for audiences, but also for the musicians. This music is winner of three music prizes in Europe, and has been sung for the Pope in Rome.
Visiting guest conductor: David Eby
Director of Ananda’s worldwide music ministry.
Kriya Initiation and Renewal Ceremony
Kriyaban Meditation, Saturday, March 31, 7-10 am
Kriya Initiation and Renewal Ceremony, 6 pm
Once each year, those who have received the sacred technique of Kriya from Ananda are invited to renew their vows in this beautiful evening ceremony in the sanctuary. This is also a initiation for those receiving Kriya for the first time. Wear white clothing, and bring a donation in an envelope, fruit, and a flower to offer at the altar.
Guided by Nayaswamis Asha and David Praver
Palm Sunday
April 1, Sunday Service, 10 am
Purification and Meditation Ceremony, 9–9:45 am
Commemorate Jesus’ triumphal entry into the city of Jerusalem—the beginning also of his final days on earth. Musical performances and readings help draw you into his spirit of courage and transcendence.
Good Friday
April 6, 7:30 pm, free
We reflect on the courage of Christ’s surrender to God’s will—the ultimate sacrifice. And we ask ourselves how we may open ourselves to that most profound of spiritual acts: openness to God’s will for us.
Easter Retreat:
Walk in the Footsteps of Christ
Saturday, April 7, 10 am-2 pm, donation
When Asha tells the story of the life of Jesus, it is not something that happened long ago. It feels fresh and alive, and relevant. Her deep connection with Jesus, her profound insight into the meaning behind these dramatic events, and her vivid storytelling make this an extraordinary day of effortless learning. Asha will start with the resurrection of Lazarus, take us through the triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, then to the dramatic conclusion of arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection. You'll walk with Christ in a way you may never have done before. Not in sorrow and defeat, but in courageous, God-surrendered acceptance and joy. The day will also include meditation and music. (This retreat is completely different from the "Oratorio Retreats" we have been doing in recent years)
Guided by Nayaswami Asha
Easter Sunday
Sunday Service, April 8, 10 am
Meditation and Purification Ceremony, 9–9:45 am
Sunday School is available for children
One of the spiritual highlights of the year—join us for a music-filled, joyful celebration of Christ’s triumph over all earthly limitations, and awaken within yourself the all-conquering power of Spirit.
Easter Sunday Brunch
Easter Egg Hunt, 12:30 pm
Brunch, 1 pm
Adults/$15, $5 children (under 6 free) Reservations
Brunch and egg hunting will be at Ananda Community in Mountain View, weather permitting; otherwise we'll meet in the Ananda Temple.
Easter would not be complete without this lovely family brunch in a beautiful, relaxing, outdoor setting. Reservations appreciated, but not required; all are welcome.
How to find us:
Map of Ananda grounds, so you can easily find your way around once you arrive.
Even if you registered ahead of time, please stop by the Teaching Center to sign in, so we can greet you and direct you to the right classroom. The Teaching Center is located just behind the large temple on El Camino. Enter the courtyard from College, and the building will be on your right. If it's your first time, you may appreciate having the Ananda grounds map handy.
Nearly all our classes and events take place at our main Temple and classrooms in Palo Alto. But occasionally, programs are at Ananda Community in Mountain View. If so, the class description will mention it and provide directions.
