________________
BRINGING JAIN TOGETHER
Jain Scholars committee has been in dialogue with Jain centers in North America for developing programs to strengthen Unity. Centers in turn are keeping open dialogues with all members to bring together all sects. Working towards Jain Unity is much easier in North America than any other place. The rituals are different but the objective is the same - uplifting spiritually. Young Jains of America and Young Jain Professionals are interested in learning and adopting unified Jain teachings and conducts. Almost all of our centers are conducting programs with similar aim in mind. We have to stress that underneath the waves, deep down in the ocean, our knowledge and Scriptures are the same.
Nirmal Dosi Ndosi@verizon.net
The followings are some of our centers valuable efforts in unity process which can become part of a role model to unite all Jains:
1. Jain Association of Montreal. Our samaj Jain Association of Montreal is very small in numbers. We are made up of Swetamber, Digamber, Sthanakvasi, Deravasi, but we are ONE and that is Jains. We live in harmony and we do our prayers, pooja together. We believe in "together we stand, divided we fall". We really enjoy celebrating our religious occasions together. Unity is our strength. Bipin Shah, bipin.prabha@yahoo.ca
Nirmal Dosi chairs the JAINA Scholars Visitation Program. He is self
educated in Jain philosophy and scriptures including Tattvartha Sutra, Saman Suttam, Purushartha Sidyupaya, Chhadhala, Jin Dhammo and Ratna
Karan Shrävakächär. He also plays Violin and recites poetry in local events.
2. Jain Center of Minnesota. Promote and seek better understanding of the Jain religion's doctrine and beliefs. Provide academic, cultural and intellectual interchanges between the Jains, impart a basic understanding of the Jain philosophy to our children, celebrate auspicious Jain events and festivals. Our uniting force is Jain philosophy and communication through a common language English for benefit of adult and youth alike. Common Khsamapana Day is celebrated. Learned speakers from different traditions are invited. Ram Gada, Ramgada@gmail.com
3. International Jain Sangh (IJS). Promote teachings of Jainism by organizing spiritual, cultural, academic and charitable programs by following principles of Ahimsa ( non violence) and Anekantvaad (respect for other's views). At Mahavir Jayanti celebrations, US takes pride in inviting and participation of monks and Nuns, and others for blessings and Pravachans to ensure the whole community is represented from all sects. US Souvenir Publication always reflects diversity of all sects through pictures and articles by various scholars and Sadhvis and monks - Neelam Jain, jainneelam@hotmail.com
4. Jain Center of Greater Phoenix. First and foremost I am Jain and then I could be Swetambar, Digambar or Sthanakvasi sect of follower. Jain center celebrates both Paryushana.
14 Biennial JAINA Convention 2007
176
PEACE THROUGH DIALOGUE
Jain Education Intemational
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
