JAINA Convention 1991 07 Northern California

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

Page 9

"Extending Jain Heritage to the Next Generation"
The Convention Committee's Address ....
Welcome to the 6th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America which focuses on "Extending Jain Heritage to the Next Generation". This is an exciting and historical event for all the Jains in North America.
Let it also be a new beginning in the western world of the concept of living a life from the depth of one's tradition and beliefs and yet being open to others beliefs and viewpoints. Let us try to maintain a balance between traditional ritualistic beliefs and modern intellectual approach to our ancient religion. It is of utmost importance that we maintain this balance so as not to tum away our younger generation from a religion and faith that guides us and provides us strength to live through the thick and thin of our lives.
Members of the Jain community have assembled here to continue the important work of finding the ways of extending the Jain heritage to the next generation. The convention also focuses on the following ideas and themes:
• Unity, brotherhood and close links among Jains in North America. • Promotion of Jain literature for young Jains. • Involvement of youth in living an ethical life.
Propagate tenets and ideals of Jainism - Ahimsa, Peace, Vegetarianism. • Bhagwan Mahavir's message to young Jains for the 21st century.
• The Jain - American compromise: Can our youth survive in America without sacrificing the basic elements of Jainism?
Jainism v/s Jainology: Should our heritage be taught to our youth as a religion or a science?
We would like to thank the JAINA for providing the opportunity to host the 6th Biennial Convention. We would especially like to thank the many volunteers who have worked very hard for many months to make this a successful event. It has been a total community effort.
Hereby with utmost appreciation gratitude and reverence, we thank all the Acharyas, Munis, Bhattaraks, Shamanijis, Scholars, Dignitaries and Jain and Non-Jain participants for gracing this convention with their presence and for giving us an opportunity to listen their views. We also take this opportunity to thank all other Jain and Non-Jain members, friends and relatives for attending this convention and providing us with an opportunity to extend our hospitality,
Editorial Pravin Turakhia, Convention Chairperson
It is my distinct priviledge and honor to welcome you all to the 6th Biennial Jaina convention. The dedication of many enthusiastic young and adult Jain for over a period of fifteen months is largely responsible for making this convention a reality. These efforts will be worthwhile only if we fulfill our mission of "Extending Jain Heritage to the Next Generation;" - the main theme of this convention.
I must emphasize that we should not mistakenly extend "our" heritage in the field of religion - a religion which basically believes in Ahimsa - Non-violence of mind, speech, body and actions - to the younger generation. We should leave aside all of our differences, rigid views, beliefs and dogmatism beyond the reach of our young Jains, so that they can have a fresh and clear start towards the end of their mission.
Today is the 4th of July, and America is celebrating independence day. For a true Jain, however, the independence day will be the day when he comes out as a winner by getting rid of all his Karma through the path of salvation.
I strongly urge all young Jains to be a part of this convention. This convention will help answer some of your questions thereby enabling you to lead a better life.
I would like to thank all dignitaries, delegates, participants, voluenteers, supporters and donors for helping us achieve our mission.
6TH BIENNIAL JAINA CONVENTION
JULY 1991 17
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