JAINA Convention 2005 07 JCNC

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

Page 94

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At JCNC, we have actually used language and regional differences to the advantage by using those as opportunities to advance culturally, learn more and widen the sphere of knowledge - more ways to celebrate, more devotional music, more literature and so on.
Another JCNC tradition that has helped us is our continuous strong opposition to the formation of any sectarian Jain organization, and we strongly discourage our members from forming or supporting any organization that is not directly affiliated with JCNC. There are numerous requests from Jain organizations in India to help them or facilitate their center or office, but JCNC and its members have until now steadfastly declined that. Many requests have hidden agenda of opening a way to promote their own views as a better way, and if a tradition starts a local office or center, it creates a distraction and opens up room for future separation. The leaders and members must remain vigilant not to allow that.
JCNC and some other Jain organizations around the world are demonstrating how we can bring our traditions close with the ultimate goal of one unified Jain community. It is not uncommon to see in JCNC's Jain Bhawan on a Saturday morning a group of people conducting a puja in Shwetambar style, another one conducting a puja in Digambar style, someone doing a samayik with Sthanakwasi or Terapanth mukhpatti, and someone reciting in front of SrimadJi's pratima. All of these activities happening simultaneously in Jain temple under one Jain Bhawan roof. All participants enjoying in their own way without knowing or caring about the sectarian background of the other individuals. A real and profound Unity in Diversity on display.
In the last 25 years JAINA, JCNC and many other Jain organizations have taken some initial steps towards Jain unification, and some organizations in India are promoting advantages of Jain unity. These are critically important steps for Jain Dharma to survive among second and subsequent generations of Jains in North America and other countries. Already some of us call ourselves Jain without any other qualifying label, and hopefully this will spread worldwide among all Jains over the next decade or two. Jain unity is an absolute necessity for us to thrive, as we rightfully must to promote Lord Mahavir's message which is becoming more and more imperative with pragmatic implications in this changing world. Implementing His message today will allow us to thrive tomorrow!
Extending Jain Heritage in Western Environment