The UK Bal-Balika Mandal organised a special Winter Training Camp entitled ‘Satsang Karo ne Karavo’ between Friday 16 and Sunday 18 December 2016 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London. The programme conveyed useful information and volunteer training to 56 selected delegates from across the UK.
Manoharmurti Swami explained the aims and objectives and elaborated on how to utilise the skills and knowledge to progress spiritually, including in serving others.
Devotees who have sacrificed their time to serve others whilst achieving academic success were then recognised, providing motivation and encouragement to the young delegates. The first day also provided plenty of opportunities for the children to interact through various team-building activities.
On the second day, sadhus and senior karyakars delivered inspiring presentations on the fundamentals of the Akshar-Purushottam upasana. Each session provided the delegates with an insight into the core principles of BAPS by exploring the concepts of siddhant, Sanstha and Satpurush.
The children also enjoyed a treasure hunt in the City of London. They were given several timed tasks with the emphasis of working as a team and in doing so, developed their planning, communication and leadership skills.
The final day of the camp served as an induction for new volunteers through hands-on training that was delivered using innovative and interactive methods.
The theoretical and practical training drew upon the tireless endeavours of the Guru Parampara as the ideal example, providing the new volunteers a solid foundation to progress in their personal lives and make a difference in the lives of others.
As a memento, the delegates were awarded certificates to confirm they had completed the course on teamwork and voluntary services.
One balak shared, “I feel more confident now in my understanding, and will not hesitate when someone asks me about it.”
A balika added, “It was an enjoyable and unique experience to share with my friends, which has helped me to better understand Akshar-Purushottam upasana.”