Jain Center Detroit 1998 06 Pratistha

Author(s): Jain Center Detroit
Publisher: USA Jain Center Detroit MI

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Jain Society of Greater Detroit
PRATISHTHA MAHOTSAV JUNE 27-JULY 6 1998
JAIN STUDY CLASS
The Jain Society of Greater Detroit has been conducting study class for the last 15 years. We have made a tremendous progress year after year. The Study Class started with about 15 to 20 students under the leadership of Mahendrabhai J. Shah and as of today, he still is our leader. We all know him as GURUJI. He has dedicated an enormous amount of time and effort through the years. Today, we have almost 140 students, age group from 3 years to 17 years and also an adult study group. Recently we have started a Crash Course group in which new students of various ages come and go through curriculum in short time and then, join the appropriate age group.
The adult group, originally started by Anantbhai Koradia, is now led by Leenaben Choksi. Usually, 30-35 adults attend this class and learn about Jainism, Karmas, Tatvas, Paap-Sthanaks, Daily vows, and more.
Currently, study class activities are self supported with the help of the dedicated sponsors. Every year during Paryushana, we have a Children's Day program in which students perform activities such as reciting Navkar Mantra and stutis, singing religious songs, Raas-Garba, Skits, Drama, Debate, etc. Also we have an annual essay competition where students write on various subjects related to Jainism and receive prizes. Also, last year (1997) we had a special program - a drama in English titled "SHRIPAL MAYANA" performed mostly by our students. Almost 50 students from various age groups participated to make this drama memorable.
The purpose of study class has been, and will be, to give our children some general information about basic religious teachings, and to expose them to various subject matters such as Temple, Puja, Sadhu-Sadhvi and their role, Paap-Punya, Karma, Tatva, Stories about our Tirthankars and Munies, Jain Principles and Philosophy etc. Following are some highlights the study class:
9 groups of children and youth and one group of Adults
Over 140 registered students
• 24 teachers and volunteers
Guest speakers
Introduced "JAIN BUCK" program
• Trip to other Jain societies to exchange ideas
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