Gobind Sadan
A Lasting Tribute to Baba Virsa Singh ji’s Mission of Peace for Everyone
Central Square, NY – Saturday, March 22, 10 am – 1 pm:
The new building which rose out of the ashes of hatred following the post 9-11 arson will be dedicated by Giani Iqbal Singh ji, the head (Jethadar) of Takhat Siri Patna Sahib, one of the 5 traditional seats of Sikhism accepted and respected the world over.
Giani Iqbal Singh ji will fly from India for the dedication ceremony.
Joining Giani Iqbal Singh ji, will be religious and community leaders from across Central NY who see Gobind Sadan as a symbol of religious pluralism.
The morning will start with hymns of God’s praise, followed by tributes, and Gobind Sadan’s thanks to those who helped in the rebuilding process, and will conclude with a traditional Sikh community meal. All are welcome.
The site for Gobind Sadan USA, was chosen according to the vision of Baba Virsa Singh ji, Gobind Sadan’s beloved founder and preceptor, during his first U.S. visit in 1986. The new building dedication had awaited Baba Virsa Singh ji’s visit but unfortunately Babaji left this world on Christmas eve, 2007.
Giani Iqbal Singh ji who loves Babaji very much, presided over his memorial service in India, then kindly agreed to take time from his busy schedule to come in Babaji’s stead and on his behalf to dedicate the new temple here in Central Square.
The holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, and Dasam Granth, which survived the fire unscathed, will be installed in their new place of honor within the temple. To us this was a miracle, and to others it was symbolic that the Light of God’s love enshrined in scripture does indeed overcome the darkness of hatred.
Guru Granth Sahib, regarded by Sikhs as the living word of God, teaches that there is one God for all humanity, indeed for all creation, that loving God is central to human existence, and it teaches that everyone should show love and respect to all religions and those who bring God’s message. As such it is a inclusive testament to move beyond tolerance to a sense of community for all.
A Sikh, the devotee of God, is called on to always remember and thank God through prayer
and meditation, to work hard and earn an honest living, and to share with those in need.
The Sikh religion founded 500 years ago by Guru Nanak Devji and his 9 successors, is now considered the 5th largest with numbers of over 20 million worldwide.
Baba Virsa Singh ji’s mission focuses on healing the human mind, overcoming terrorism, overcoming poverty and religious conflict, and bridging the gap between science and religion. While Babaji has left his physical body his mission continues through his message and the work of his devotees world wide.