Jain Center of America NY 2005 06 Pratishtha

Author(s): Jain Center of America NY
Publisher: USA Jain Center America NY

Page 123

INVOLVING YOUTH IN THE RELIGIOUS WORLD Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji
In this fast era of development, it is relatively easy to concentrate on outer or
materialistic achievements. One can see them, use them, or enjoy them. However, there are some very special souls who dedicate their energy and efforts on achieving inner perfection. All the members of the Jain Center of America - New York are such special people. Despite their tremendously hectic lives, they dedicated their energy and enthusiasm to building an absolute serene temple in the midst of the city of New York. We are absolutely sure that the existence of this temple, ser among the hustle and bustle of the city, will bring ample peace and happiness to the hearts of many. Given its location, it will be able to increase the understanding of the Jain religion to non-Indians, as well as the local Indian community. We at Veerayatan congratulate all the members of the Jain Center of America - New York for their tireless efforts, commitment and motivation that were critical to building this temple; it will bring much spiritual benefit to the larger community.
A couple of years ago, when the sadhvijis of Veerayatan began coming to countries like America, people always questioned whether our religion would grow in the West. Parents of Indian families were anxious about their children possibly losing their identity, and wanted to promote the great heritage and culture of their religion. The very existence of Young Jains of America and other such youth organizations ensures the continuity of Jainism in the West. The efficiency and professionalism with which these organizations operate only promises an extraordinary future for our faith.
Once the disciples of Tirthankar Mahavir asked him which religion or community could have a continuous, stable future. He replied that the community in which old people raise the questions and young people answer them is the community best positioned for the future. The community in which young people raise questions and are dependent on the elders for answers may grow weak in time.
According to sociologists and contemporary thinkers, this generation of young people is extremely intelligent and capable. It is very important that their energy is channeled toward the constructive development of society, nation, and towards humanity at large. When the parents of this generation arrived in America about three decades ago, they had to work very hard to establish themselves and become successful. The present generation doesn't have to struggle to that extent, and they have relatively more resources and abilities. Therefore, it is very important that the energy and resources of the current young generation become focused in the right direction. Otherwise, there could be a potential danger for cultural, moral, and ethical deterioration.
Since the present young generation is very, very competent and full of innovative ideas, they should be given a leading role in the religious world and social organizations. The core values of our religion never change: ahimsa, love, and compassion, remain constant throughout the generations. However, the ways and methods to practice these may change. The practice of our age-old rituals could be modified so that young people are inspired to observe them in a more meaningful way.
Our young generation can offer us a lot if they are given adequate opportunities for their involvement in the spiritual world. Their intelligence, energy, and enthusiasm can be greatly beneficial to the larger humanity, provided that their entire development can be spiritually charged. This is only possible if they are given the right platform, education, and guidance.
We are sure that the Jain Center of America - New York will pave the way for the spiritual development of the current generation of young followers by offering them many more opportunities for their involvement in the religious world. This will automatically ensure the future of Tirthankar Mahavir's teachings in the land of America.
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